Homemade Orangeade Drink Recipe
Homemade Orangeade is a refreshing citrus drink made with freshly squeezed oranges, lemon juice, honey, and sugar. Perfectly sweet and tangy, it's served chilled with fresh mint and orange slices for a vibrant, thirst-quenching treat! 🍊🍋✨
Ingredients
- 3 cups water divided
- 1 ½ cups white sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 cups freshly squeezed orange juice about 4–5 medium oranges
- Juice from 2 lemons about ¼ cup
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
- Orange slices for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Simple Syrup
- In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of water and 1 ½ cups of white sugar.
- Heat over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves completely. This should take about 3–4 minutes. Avoid boiling.
- Remove from heat and let the syrup cool slightly. Stir in 1 tablespoon of honey for extra depth of flavor.
Step 2: Squeeze Those Citrus Fruits
- Roll your oranges and lemons gently on the counter to loosen the juices inside.
- Cut them in half and squeeze using a manual juicer or your hands. Strain the juice to remove seeds and pulp if desired.
- I always keep a few orange slices aside for garnishing later.
Step 3: Mix Everything Together
- In a large pitcher, combine 2 cups of freshly squeezed orange juice, ¼ cup of lemon juice, and the cooled simple syrup.
- Add 2 cups of cold water and stir well. Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness as needed.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate the orangeade for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Pour into glasses filled with ice cubes. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and orange slices before serving.