When life gives you oranges, why not make refreshing Homemade Orangeade? This simple recipe transforms fresh orange juice into a delicious citrus drink that your family will request again and again.
When citrus season arrives, I love experimenting with all types of citrus. A bag of lemons often turns into a classic Lemon Meringue Pie, while fresh grapefruit pairs beautifully with avocado for a bright citrus salad. Orange juice makes an irresistible Orange Chicken, adding a savory twist inspired by Chinese takeout flavors. Citrus really lifts my spirits, especially during the darker days of winter.
Imagine two glasses of homemade orangeade, vibrant and garnished with orange slices and fresh mint. This is the kind of drink you’ll want to make on repeat.
WHAT IS ORANGEADE?
Orangeade is a refreshing citrus beverage made with just a few simple ingredients. Like other ‘ades’ (such as lemonade or limeade), it combines fresh fruit juice—with orange juice being the star—along with water and a sweetener. This delightful mix of freshly squeezed orange and lemon juices, sugar syrup, and water is not only incredibly thirst-quenching but also brings a sense of nostalgia.
INGREDIENTS
- 3 cups water, divided
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 cups freshly squeezed orange juice
- Juice of 2 lemons
- Fresh mint leaves and orange slices for garnish
INSTRUCTIONS
- Make the Simple Syrup: In a large saucepan, combine 1 cup of sugar with 1 cup of water. Heat over medium-high heat until the mixture simmers and the sugar fully dissolves. Stir in the honey, then remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
- Mix the Orangeade: In a serving pitcher, combine the fresh orange juice, lemon juice, and the remaining 2 cups of water. Stir until well mixed.
- Sweeten to Taste: Add the simple syrup to the orange juice mixture according to your preference, stirring well. Chill the orangeade in the refrigerator until it’s cold.
- Serve: Pour the orangeade into glasses and garnish with an orange slice and a sprig of mint.
NOTES
- Feel free to adjust the sugar content to your taste or omit the honey if desired.
- If you prefer, strain the freshly squeezed orange juice to remove any pulp.
- For an extra burst of flavor, mix fresh mint directly into the pitcher.
NUTRITION INFORMATION
Yield: 5 servings
Serving Size: 1 glass
- Calories: 237
- Total Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 9mg
- Carbohydrates: 61g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 55g
- Protein: 1g
