Iced coffee lemonade is a summer drink like no other.
It’s bright and refreshing, with the tang of lemonade balanced by the depth of cold brew coffee.
This unique blend, inspired by the historic Mazagran, has origins in North Africa and was made popular by French colonial soldiers.
Today, this chilled drink has gained a global following for its perfect mix of citrus and coffee — ideal for hot days.
How to Make Iced Coffee Lemonade: At A Glance
- Brew: Prepare cold brew or double-strength coffee and chill.
- Combine: Mix equal parts coffee and lemonade, with fresh lemon juice to taste.
- Sweeten: Add simple syrup or honey if desired.
- Serve: Pour over ice, garnish with lemon or mint, and enjoy!
What is Iced Coffee Lemonade?
Iced coffee lemonade is a unique beverage that merges the bright, tangy taste of lemonade with the rich, slightly bitter notes of coffee.
This blend can be traced back to Algeria in the 1840s when French colonial soldiers combined coffee with lemon juice to create Mazagran, considered one of the world’s first iced coffee drinks.
Over time, Mazagran evolved as it spread, with some variations including rum or a sprinkle of salt to enhance flavor balance.
Today, iced coffee lemonade has gained new names and versions.
Often referred to as a “Laura Palmer,” it mirrors the popular Arnold Palmer (iced tea lemonade) but swaps tea for coffee, adding a caffeinated twist to the refreshing classic.
Ingredients Needed
Core Ingredients
- 1/2 cup cold brew coffee or double-strength coffee (about 120ml)
- 1/2 cup lemonade (120ml), preferably fresh
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (30ml), or more to taste
- Ice, as needed for serving
- Optional Sweetener:
- 1–2 tablespoons simple syrup or honey (to taste)
Optional Add-Ins
- Sparkling water (for added fizz, splash as desired)
- 1 ounce rum (optional, for a spiked version)
- Fresh mint or lemon slices (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Recipe
1. Make the Coffee
Start with your preferred coffee type.
For the best flavor, cold brew is recommended, but espresso or strong brewed coffee will work well too.
If using regular brewed coffee, let it chill thoroughly before making your drink.
Aim for double-strength coffee if brewing fresh, as this will keep the coffee flavor bold when mixed with the lemonade.
2. Combine Ingredients
In a glass, use a 1:1 ratio of coffee to lemonade for a balanced mix of flavors, or adjust to a 2:3 ratio if you prefer a stronger coffee taste.
Start by adding ice to the glass, then pour in the coffee and lemonade.
Add 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice for an extra citrus kick.
Stir well and taste, adjusting sweetness with simple syrup or honey if desired.
3. Optional Variations
For a lighter, bubbly version, top off the drink with a splash of tonic or sparkling water.
This adds an extra layer of refreshment and makes the drink feel less intense.
Garnish with mint leaves or lemon slices for a refreshing and decorative touch.
Flavor Balancing Tips
Achieving the perfect balance of flavors in iced coffee lemonade requires a careful approach to sweetness, acidity, and bitterness.
Each component can change the drink’s profile, so tasting as you go is essential.
Sweetness Levels
To adjust sweetness, try using simple syrup, honey, or even stevia for a naturally sweetened option.
Each sweetener has a slightly different taste and effect on the drink’s texture.
Simple syrup blends smoothly and provides a neutral sweetness, while honey adds a slight floral note.
Start with a small amount, about 1 to 2 teaspoons, and add more gradually, tasting until you reach your preferred level of sweetness.
Acidity and Bitterness
Balancing the lemon’s acidity with the coffee’s bitterness is key to creating a refreshing yet smooth drink.
Lemon juice cuts through coffee’s bold flavors, which can enhance its brightness, but too much can overpower the coffee.
Adjust the acidity with fresh lemon juice, starting with a smaller amount and tasting as you go.
If the bitterness is too strong, adding a pinch of salt can subtly mellow the flavors without affecting the overall taste.
Recipe Variations
There are several ways to customize iced coffee lemonade to fit different tastes and preferences.
Here are a few popular variations that highlight the drink’s versatility.
Classic Mazagran
To give your iced coffee lemonade a traditional twist, try making it like a classic Mazagran.
This version includes a splash of rum for a lightly spiked option, adding depth and warmth to the drink.
Additionally, a pinch of salt can enhance the flavors without overpowering them, balancing the citrus and coffee notes nicely.
This subtle addition brings out the richness of the coffee while softening any harshness from the lemon juice, creating a smoother, well-rounded flavor.
Iced Coffee Lemonade with Orange
For a fruity variation, replace part of the lemon juice with orange juice.
This swap gives the drink a slightly sweeter and less acidic flavor, ideal for those who want a gentler citrus taste.
Orange juice adds a bit of natural sweetness while blending smoothly with the coffee’s richness.
Use fresh-squeezed orange juice if possible to maximize the fresh and vibrant flavors, and adjust the lemonade-to-orange ratio based on personal preference for a unique citrusy twist.
Low-Calorie Version
To keep your iced coffee lemonade light and low-calorie, opt for stevia or sugar-free lemonade as a sweetener.
Stevia provides natural sweetness without added sugars, helping maintain the drink’s refreshing quality while keeping calories low.
If you’re using store-bought lemonade, choose a sugar-free version or dilute with water to cut down on sweetness while still enjoying the lemonade’s zesty notes.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions
Iced coffee lemonade is best enjoyed freshly made, served over ice in a tall glass.
For added flair, garnish it with a slice of lemon or a sprig of fresh mint.
These simple touches enhance both the presentation and aroma of the drink.
If you’re serving it at a gathering or just want a festive look, consider using a colorful straw or even a cocktail umbrella to give it a fun, summery vibe.
The cold, refreshing look makes it an instant hit, especially on hot days.
Storage Instructions
Although this drink is ideally consumed immediately for the freshest taste, it can be stored for a short period if needed.
Pour any leftover iced coffee lemonade into a sealed jar and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
This helps preserve the flavors, but keep in mind that it may lose some freshness.
When ready to serve, give it a quick stir or shake, and pour it over fresh ice for the best experience.
Conclusion
Iced coffee lemonade is a refreshing, versatile drink that’s perfect for hot summer days.
Its blend of coffee and lemonade offers a unique taste, with endless ways to customize it to your preference.
Try experimenting with flavors, add-ins, and garnishes to make it your own.
Enjoy this invigorating twist on iced coffee, and let it become your go-to summer drink!
FAQs
What’s the Best Coffee for This Recipe?
Cold brew is a great choice for iced coffee lemonade, as its smooth, less acidic profile balances well with lemon.
For a bolder taste, double-strength brewed coffee or espresso also works well, bringing out a rich coffee flavor even when mixed with lemonade.
Can I Use Bottled Lemonade?
Yes, bottled lemonade is convenient and works well for this recipe.
However, using fresh lemon juice enhances the flavor, adding a bright, natural tang that pairs perfectly with coffee.
If you’re using bottled lemonade, consider adding a splash of fresh lemon juice for an extra kick.
What Other Add-Ins Work Well?
Popular add-ins include fresh mint for a cooling effect and sparkling water or tonic to add a light, bubbly texture.
These additions can make the drink feel even more refreshing and layered, with a hint of fizz that elevates the coffee-lemonade combination.
