Homemade orangeade is a refreshing treat made with fresh-squeezed oranges and a touch of lemon. Naturally sweetened and bursting with citrus flavor, this drink is perfect for quenching your thirst on a warm day.

a cup of orangeade with a slice of orange — Oh I love using up oranges this way, so nice

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This homemade orangeade is refreshing and hydrating, a perfect thirst quencher, especially on a hot day. The combination of freshly squeezed citrus juices and cold water provides a crisp and revitalizing drink.
The recipe uses all-natural ingredients – oranges, lemons, and a touch of maple syrup for sweetness. It's free from artificial additives, colors, and excessive sugars.
You have control over the sweetness level. Whether you prefer a slightly tangy or a sweeter flavor, you can adjust the amount of sweetener to suit your taste preferences.
The recipe is versatile – you can modify the quantities of ingredients to make a single serving or a larger batch. Plus, it's incredibly easy to make.

If you’re into refreshing drinks, you’ll love my mint lemon juice (lemonana), or this sparkling pink rose lemonade, or homemade basil lemonade. Looking for something icy? Try the extra-cold slushie with frozen pineapple. And for a tropical twist, don’t miss the orange and coconut cocktail!

Ingredients You'll Need

an orange, lemon and maple syrup in a bowl

The complete list of ingredients with measurements, can be found in the full recipe card below.

Fresh oranges and lemons, I like to use organic when possible. The juice will be freshly squeezed. You use the pulp too if you like.
Maple syrup is my choice of natural sweetener used in this recipe. You can add as much of this ingredient as you like.
Filtered water or soda water and ice cubes

How to Make Orangeade

Prepare the Oranges and Lemons. Wash the oranges and lemons thoroughly under cold water. Use a citrus juicer to extract the juice from the oranges and lemon. You can do this with a manual juicer or an electric juicer.

Mix the juice in a pitcher and combine the freshly squeezed orange and lemon juice.

Sweeten the orangeade by adding the maple syrup to the pitcher. Adjust the amount based on your desired level of sweetness.

Pour in the cold water, depending on how strong you want the flavor to be. Start with less water and adjust to your taste. Stir the mixture well until the sweetener is fully dissolved.

Serve by adding ice and garnish, drop a few ice cubes into a glass, and garnish if you like, with some orange or lemon skin.

Janelle's Tips

Use ice only in your cups rather than in the pitcher, this will ensure the orangeade doesn't dilute.

Add other citrus fruits to the juice blend, try it with lime, lemonade, tangelo, and so forth.

Add some fresh herbs to the juice, think mint or basil.

top view of a cup with orangeade and ice in it

Storage Suggestions

Pour the juice into an airtight jug and keep the orangeade in the fridge for up to five days. Stir before serving as there may be some separation.

Did you make this? I'd love to know! Leave me a comment below with a ★★★★★ star rating or tag @plantbasedfolk on social media.

Recipe