Orangeade is a refreshing homemade drink made with freshly squeezed oranges, simple syrup, and chilled water or sparkling water. It takes less than 10 minutes to prepare and delivers a light, citrusy summer drink that’s easy to serve at family gatherings, parties, or as a daily thirst-quencher.
Orangeade is a Refreshing Citrus Drink
This is a refreshing citrus beverage prepared with fresh orange juice, sugar, and water. It’s similar to lemonade but uses oranges instead of lemons. Popular as a southern-style classic, this homemade orangeade offers a nostalgic flavor that feels both simple and timeless.
Ingredients for Homemade Orangeade
- Freshly squeezed oranges (for the best taste)
- Whether it’s sugar, honey, agave, or a quick syrup mix, all work well
- Cold water or sparkling water
- Garnishes: mint sprigs, orange slices, ice cubes
Step-by-Step Method for Orangeade
- A basic syrup can be made by mixing sugar into heated water until smooth.
- Juice 4–5 medium oranges until you have about 1 cup of fresh juice.
- Add the juice to a jug, then dilute with either chilled water or sparkling water.
- Add ice, stir well, and garnish with orange slices or mint.
Variations of Orangeade to Try
- Sparkling orangeade for a fizzy twist
- Sugar-free version with honey, agave, or stevia
- This is blended with lemon or lime for tanginess
- Kid-friendly party version or cocktail twist with vodka or rum
- According to the Dish ‘n’ the kitchen site, you can add different varieties of oranges like Tangerines and Clementines.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips for Orangeade
Homemade orangeade stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For events, have the juice and syrup prepared early, finishing the drink with chilled or sparkling water at the time of serving to keep it crisp.
Common Facts
- Bottled juice is an option, but fresh orange juice gives the drink its richest flavor.
- Sugar can be replaced with natural sweeteners like honey or agave.
- Four to five medium oranges yield about one cup of juice.
- Recipes can be doubled or tripled for parties without losing flavor balance.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
A single serving of this contains around 110 calories, 24g of sugar, and is a strong source of vitamin C. These values may vary slightly depending on the type of sweetener and the amount of juice used.
Final Thoughts
This brings together freshly pressed oranges, water, and simple syrup for a light and refreshing southern-style drink. It’s customizable, easy to prepare, and healthier than most store-bought options. This recipe proves that a classic homemade orangeade never goes out of style.