The Ultimate Guide to Waffle House Large HI-C® Fruit Punch 2026
$2.65 | 170 Calories
When you walk into a Waffle House restaurant, the smell of sizzling bacon and fresh coffee fills the air. Amidst this iconic breakfast atmosphere, you’ll find a beverage that offers a burst of fruity sweetness: the Waffle House Large HI-C® Fruit Punch. Priced at $2.65 and containing 170 calories, this large, vibrant drink is a popular choice for those craving a refreshing, non-carbonated beverage to complement their meal. Whether you’re fueling up for the day ahead or satisfying a late-night craving, this guide covers everything you need to know about this classic diner drink.
What is HI-C® Fruit Punch at Waffle House?
HI-C® is a well-known brand of fruit-flavored drinks, and Waffle House serves its Fruit Punch flavor in a Large size. Unlike fountain sodas, HI-C® Fruit Punch offers a uniquely smooth, sweet, and intensely fruity taste without carbonation. It’s a drink that appeals to both kids and adults looking for a caffeine-free alternative to coffee or cola.
At Waffle House, beverages are an essential part of the 24/7 dining experience. The Large HI-C® Fruit Punch stands out on the Waffle House beverages menu price list as a colorful and flavorful option. Served chilled in a large cup, it’s the perfect companion to everything from golden waffles to hearty burgers.
Nutrition Facts and Calorie Breakdown
Understanding what you’re drinking is key, especially if you’re mindful of your dietary intake. Let’s break down the nutritional profile of the Large HI-C® Fruit Punch.
| Nutrient | Amount per Large Serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 170 kcal | – |
| Total Fat | 0g | 0% |
| Sodium | 65mg | 3% |
| Total Carbohydrates | 44g | 16% |
| Sugars | 42g | – |
| Protein | 0g | 0% |
| Vitamin C | 100% | 100% |
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
Key Nutritional Insights:
- Calorie Content: At 170 calories, it’s a moderately sweet drink. For comparison, it has fewer calories than a Large Chocolate Milk (440 cal) but more than a Large Coffee (10 cal) or Alice’s Iced Tea (70 cal).
- Sugar Content: The primary source of calories is sugar (42g). This is typical for a fruit-flavored drink and is something to consider if you are monitoring your sugar intake.
- Fat & Protein Free: It contains no fat or protein, making it a pure source of carbohydrates and sweetness.
- Vitamin C Fortified: A significant benefit is that it provides 100% of the daily value for Vitamin C, offering a boost to your immune system.
For those tracking their meals closely, using the Waffle House calorie calculator can help you see how this drink fits into your overall nutritional plan for the day.
Price and Value Comparison
At $2.65, the Large HI-C® Fruit Punch is priced identically to most other large beverages at Waffle House, offering consistent value across the drink menu.
Here’s how it compares to other popular large beverage choices:
| Beverage | 2026 Price | Calories | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Large HI-C® Fruit Punch | $2.65 | 170 | Sweet, fruity, non-carbonated refreshment |
| Large Coca-Cola® | $2.65 | 160 | Classic carbonated soda |
| Large Milk | $2.65 | 250 | Creamy, protein-rich option |
| Simply® Lemonade | $2.90 | 160 | Tangy, premium juice drink |
| Large Coffee | $2.65 | 10 | Hot, caffeine boost |
Value Verdict: You get a substantial 170 calories of sweet, vitamin-C-fortified refreshment for your $2.65. It’s an excellent value if you enjoy fruity drinks and want a large volume. The price is competitive with fast-food chains and offers the convenience of Waffle House’s 24/7 availability.
Perfect Food Pairings
The sweet and fruity profile of HI-C® Fruit Punch makes it a versatile partner for many items on the Waffle House menu. Its flavor can cut through savory, salty, and rich dishes beautifully.
Breakfast Pairings
- With Sweet Breakfasts: It’s a match made in heaven with Chocolate Chip Waffles or Peanut Butter Waffles. The fruit punch complements the sweetness without overpowering it.
- With Savory Plates: The drink’s sweetness balances the saltiness of a classic All-Star Special or a Sausage, Egg & Cheese Biscuit.
- With Bowls: A sip of cold fruit punch between bites of a warm, savory Sausage Egg & Cheese Grits Bowl creates a perfect contrast.
Lunch and Dinner Pairings
- With Burgers & Sandwiches: The sweetness acts as a great palate cleanser alongside a juicy Angus Cheeseburger or a hearty Texas Bacon Patty Melt.
- With Fried Sides: It pairs wonderfully with salty sides like French Fries or Hashbrowns from the Waffle House sides menu.
Who Is the Large HI-C® Fruit Punch For?
This beverage caters to a wide range of diners:
- Kids and Families: Its bright color, sweet taste, and lack of caffeine make it a top choice for children. It’s a fun alternative to soda on the Waffle House kids menu.
- Non-Coffee Drinkers: If you’re visiting for breakfast but don’t like coffee, this offers a flavorful, morning-appropriate option.
- Anyone Craving Sweetness: It satisfies a sweet tooth in a liquid form, which can be more refreshing than a dessert.
- Late-Night Diners: The sugar can provide a quick energy boost during a late-night study session or after a long shift.
Dietary Considerations
- Vegan/Vegetarian: HI-C® Fruit Punch contains no animal products, making it suitable for a vegan diet.
- Gluten-Free: The drink itself is gluten-free, though always check with staff about preparation if you have severe celiac disease, as cross-contamination in drink stations is possible.
- High Sugar Content: The main consideration is its 42g of sugar. Individuals managing diabetes, following low-sugar diets like keto, or simply watching their sugar intake should be mindful of this.
- Allergens: It is free from the major top allergens like milk, eggs, nuts, and soy. However, always verify with the restaurant if you have specific chemical or dye sensitivities.
Tips for Ordering and Enjoying
- Ask for Light Ice: To maximize the amount of drink you get, you can politely request “light ice.” This is a common practice at diners.
- Free Refills: While policies can vary by location, many Waffle Houses offer free refills on fountain drinks. It doesn’t hurt to ask your server if refills are included for HI-C®.
- Mix It Up: Some creative diners enjoy mixing a little HI-C® Fruit Punch with their iced tea for a custom “fruity tea” drink.
- Takeout Consideration: It travels well for takeout orders, though it’s best enjoyed cold and fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does Waffle House have HI-C?
Yes, Waffle House serves HI-C® Fruit Punch in a Large size at most of its locations.
Is HI-C Fruit Punch caffeinated?
No, HI-C® Fruit Punch is caffeine-free. It’s a great option for those avoiding caffeine.
Can I get a smaller size of HI-C Fruit Punch?
The menu typically lists a “Large” size. For a smaller portion, you can ask your server if they can provide a smaller cup or share a large with someone.
What are the ingredients in Waffle House’s HI-C Fruit Punch?
While the exact syrup-to-water ratio is proprietary, HI-C® Fruit Punch generally contains water, high fructose corn syrup, citric acid, natural and artificial flavors, and is fortified with Vitamin C.
Conclusion
The Waffle House Large HI-C® Fruit Punch is more than just a sugary drink; it’s a part of the classic, all-American diner experience. For $2.65, you get a large, refreshing beverage that delivers 170 calories of pure, fruity sweetness and a full day’s worth of Vitamin C.
Its versatility in pairing with both sweet and savory dishes—from signature hashbrown bowls to hearty melts—makes it a reliable choice for any meal. Whether you’re a parent treating your child, someone skipping the coffee, or just in the mood for a blast of fruit flavor, this vibrant punch stands as a colorful and satisfying option on Waffle House’s extensive drink menu.
Next time you’re scanning the Waffle House menu, consider the Large HI-C® Fruit Punch for a reliably sweet and refreshing complement to your meal, any time of day or night.
Disclaimer: Nutritional information and prices are based on 2026 menu data and are subject to change. Please check with your local Waffle House for the most current information. This article is for informational purposes only. For specific dietary concerns, consult with the restaurant staff or a healthcare professional. For details about our website policies, please visit our Privacy Policy, Terms and Conditions, and Cookie Policy pages.
