Canelazo is a warm drink widely enjoyed in Colombia’s Andean regions, especially on cold evenings, at local celebrations, and during family gatherings. Its signature flavor comes from panela, cinnamon, and citrus, creating a fragrant and comforting drink.
The traditional adult version often includes aguardiente. This alcohol-free recipe keeps the warm, spiced character of Colombian canelazo and can be enjoyed at any time.
Ingredients
- 750 ml water (3 cups)
- 120 g grated panela (¾ cup)
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1 medium orange, sliced
- 1 small lemon, sliced
- 20 ml lemon juice (1 tablespoon)
- 2 g whole cloves (6 cloves)
Preparation
- Make the infusion, place the water, panela, cinnamon sticks, and cloves in a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat until the panela has fully dissolved.
- Add the aromatics, add the orange and lemon slices, reduce the heat, and simmer for 8 minutes so the spices and citrus flavor the drink without making it bitter.
- Balance the flavor, stir in the lemon juice and taste the drink. Add a little more panela only if you prefer a sweeter canelazo.
- Serve hot, remove the cinnamon sticks and cloves. Pour the canelazo into heatproof cups and garnish each serving with an orange or lemon slice.
Chef’s tips
- Do not simmer the lemon slices for too long, since the peel can add bitterness.
- Use real panela for the traditional caramel-like flavor.
- Keep the drink over very low heat if you plan to serve it gradually.
- Strain it before serving for a cleaner presentation.
Traditional variations
Across Colombia’s Andean regions, families adjust the amount of panela, cinnamon, and citrus according to local custom. Some versions use only orange, while others include lemon for a brighter flavor.
How to serve
Serve canelazo piping hot in small cups or mugs. It is especially enjoyable on rainy afternoons, during family gatherings, and alongside relaxed conversations in cool weather.
Recommended pairings
- Almojábanas
- Pandebono
- Cheese arepas
- Yuca bread
- Colombian buñuelos
A little history
Canelazo belongs to the traditional warm drinks of the Andes. Its combination of panela and spices reflects the importance of these ingredients in Colombian mountain cooking, where hot drinks are closely connected with sharing time together in cool weather.
Frequently Asked Questions
Canelazo has a sweet, warm, and spiced flavor. Panela brings caramel-like notes, while cinnamon and citrus add fragrance and freshness. This alcohol-free version keeps that traditional flavor profile and makes a comforting hot drink for any occasion.
Yes, you can use brown sugar when panela is unavailable, although the result will be less traditional. Panela has a deeper flavor and a distinctive sugarcane aroma that gives Colombian canelazo much of its recognizable character.
Yes. Prepare it a few hours ahead, keep it covered in the refrigerator, and gently reheat it before serving. Remove the citrus slices before storing it so the drink does not become bitter.
