Coffee lemonade – Summer's most unexpected drink! | Barista & Espresso
Jun 03, 2025
Fresh. Caffeine-rich. And unexpectedly addictive.
As the temperature rises and the coffee cravings persist – why not try something completely new? Coffee lemonade is exactly what it sounds like: a tangy, bubbly lemonade that meets invigorating coffee. The result? A refreshing, lively drink with a perfect balance between bitterness and freshness.
It is alcohol-free from the start, making it perfect for any occasion – but it can also easily be transformed into an elegant summer cocktail. A guaranteed success at picnics, barbecue evenings, or as a welcome drink at summer parties.
🧊 Classic Coffee Lemonade for 4 people (about 1.5 liters)
Ingredients:
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4 dl freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 5–6 lemons)
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6–8 tbsp simple syrup (adjust to taste)
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2 dl cold espresso or strong brewed coffee
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6 dl cold sparkling water or soda
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Ice (plenty of ice!)
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Garnish: lemon slices, fresh mint
How to make it:
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Squeeze the lemons and pour the juice into a large pitcher.
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Add the simple syrup and stir About until it dissolves.
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Pour in the cold espresso.
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Add the ice and pour in the sparkling water just before serving.
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Taste – adjust sweetness or strength as needed.
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Garnish with a lemon slice and mint.
🍨 Creamy coffee lemonade – dessert in a glass
Want to make it extra luxurious, like in the picture? Try this variation with lemon cream/whipping cream for a sweeter and rounder flavor:
Add:
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1 dl lemon cream (e.g., lemon curd mixed with a bit of whipped cream or milk)
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Whipped cream or vanilla foam for topping
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Optional vanilla ice cream (for a float effect)
Here's how to do it:
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Follow the basic recipe above, but reduce the amount of sparkling water to 4 dl.
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Lightly whisk together the lemon cream and stir it into the lemonade.
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Top with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
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Garnish with mint and a lemon slice – serve with a spoon and a straw!
🍹 Non-alcoholic or festive?
Non-alcoholic: Perfect as a refreshing drink all day.
Festive variant (4 servings):
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Add 12–16 cl vodka, or
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8 cl vodka + 8 cl limoncello for a more complex flavor
Stir in the alcohol before adding soda water and ice.
💡 Tips for serving:
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Freeze coffee in ice cubes to avoid diluted flavor.
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Make ice cubes with lemon zest, mint, or edible flowers.
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Serve in glasses with a gold rim or coupe glasses for a luxurious feel.