We can’t get enough of Nedicks Orange Drink. It’s a taste of old New York that reminds us of classic lunch counters and sidewalk stands.
We love how the bright citrus flavor and gentle fizz excite our taste buds. This iconic beverage still holds a special place in our hearts because it captures a timeless spirit we can’t resist.
In this recipe we’ll show you how to recreate that sweet tangy punch so you can sip a little bit of nostalgia at home.
Nedicks Orange Drink Recipe
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Fresh Orange Juice | 2 cups |
| Cold Water | 1 cup |
| Simple Syrup | 2 tbsp |
| Carbonated Water (for gentle fizz) | 1 cup |
| Ice Cubes | 1 cup |
| Orange Slices (optional garnish) | 2 slices |
Instructions
- We measure the fresh orange juice, water, and simple syrup into a large pitcher.
- We stir the mixture until the syrup dissolves.
- We gently pour in the carbonated water to preserve the fizz.
- We fill tall glasses with ice cubes.
- We ladle the orange drink into each glass.
- We add orange slices for a pop of color and serve immediately.
Equipment And Tools
We rely on the right tools to recreate Nedicks Orange Drink in our own kitchens. We gather these essentials to make our mixing smooth.
Blender
We use a powerful blender to quickly combine our fresh juice and sweetener. We choose one with a secure lid to prevent splashing. The rapid blending speed helps us achieve a bright citrus base in seconds. This step ensures an even consistency before adding fizz.
Measuring Cups
Our Measuring Cups keep our ratios precise. Consistent portions of juice and water guarantee the classic tang we crave. We rely on clear markings for accurate pours.
| Measurement | Volume (fl oz) |
|---|---|
| 1 cup | 8 fl oz |
| 1/2 cup | 4 fl oz |
We trust these tools to keep our drink balanced every time.
Ingredients
We rely on minimal items to capture the bright essence of Nedicks Orange Drink. We use fresh produce and simple pantry staples to keep the citrus flavor front and center.
Orange Base
Here is a table outlining the core ingredients:
| Ingredient | Measurement | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh orange juice | 1 cup | from about 3 to 4 medium oranges |
| Cold water | 1/2 cup | chilled in advance |
| Carbonated water | 1 cup | well-chilled for a subtle fizz |
Sweeteners
| Ingredient | Measurement | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Simple syrup | 2 tablespoons | store-bought or homemade |
| Ice cubes | as needed | for chilling |
| Orange slices | a few slices | optional garnish for added color |
Directions
We combine fresh orange juice and subtle fizz to recreate the iconic Nedicks Orange Drink. Let us walk through the simple steps below.
Prep
- Wash and pat dry 3 or 4 medium oranges
- Slice each orange in half and squeeze out fresh juice
- Measure 1/2 cup of cold water
- Ensure we have 2 tablespoons of simple syrup ready
- Chill 1 cup of carbonated water prior to mixing
- Have ice cubes on hand for a final chill
Mix
- Add the fresh orange juice to our blender with the cold water
- Drizzle the simple syrup on top
- Blend at low speed for 5 to 10 seconds to keep a smooth texture
- Transfer the mixture to a large pitcher
- Slowly pour in the carbonated water to preserve fizz and stir gently
- Drop in ice cubes and (if desired) garnish with orange wedges for a true Nedicks experience
Serving Suggestions
We enjoy Nedicks Orange Drink best when served ice cold. It retains its bright citrus punch upon immediate serving. We chill tall glasses beforehand. That locks in the fizz and flavor. We also garnish each glass with an orange slice or peel. That adds a charming pop of color. For a nostalgic feel we drop in a striped straw. It reminds us of classic soda counters.
We pair this refreshing drink with salty snacks for a pleasing contrast. Below is a quick table of snack pairing ideas:
| Snack | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|
| Salted pretzels | Crisp and savory notes |
| Potato chips | Crunchy and lightly salted |
| Classic hot dogs | Iconic New York treat |
| Mini sandwiches | Mild salt and softness |
We also suggest small pastry bites if we crave something sweet. The bubbly tang complements airy treats. We serve it for gatherings or quiet breaks. Either way we relish every zesty sip.
Conclusion
We love how this bright and fizzy drink adds a rosy glow to our day It’s the perfect companion when we want a cool taste of nostalgia that always sparkles With minimal effort we can create something that feels special and brings a little burst of New York charm to our kitchens Let’s keep celebrating timeless flavors one zesty glass at a time
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Nedicks Orange Drink so nostalgic?
Nedicks Orange Drink is closely tied to classic New York lunch counters and sidewalk stands. Its bright citrus flavor and gentle fizz instantly bring back memories of the past, making it a favorite choice for those craving a timeless refreshment. The combination of tangy orange juice, light carbonation, and sweetener creates a flavor reminiscent of the original drink, ensuring a nostalgic experience in every sip. This homemade recipe allows you to capture those cherished moments in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Which ingredients are essential for the perfect Nedicks Orange Drink?
You’ll need fresh orange juice, cold water, carbonated water, and simple syrup. The fresh orange juice delivers bright flavor, while chilled water and carbonated water provide the necessary coolness and fizz. Simple syrup sweetens the mix without overpowering the tang. Ice cubes help keep the drink refreshingly cold, and garnishing with orange slices adds a visual pop. These simple ingredients come together to recreate the classic Nedicks taste you remember.
What equipment is recommended to prepare Nedicks Orange Drink?
A powerful blender helps combine fresh juice and sweetener swiftly and evenly, creating a smooth base for the drink. Measuring cups are also handy to ensure proper juice and water ratios, which keeps the beverage balanced. Additionally, gathering a pitcher or mixing bowl, a spoon, and glassware pre-chilled in the freezer helps maintain cold temperatures and fizz. These basic tools make the drink creation process hassle-free.
How do I make Nedicks Orange Drink from scratch?
Start by washing, slicing, and squeezing enough oranges to yield about one cup of fresh juice. Blend the juice with cold water and two tablespoons of simple syrup until the mixture is smooth. Gently stir in one cup of well-chilled carbonated water to keep the fizz. Pour your mixture over ice in tall, pre-chilled glasses, and, if desired, garnish with orange slices. This straightforward method ensures a refreshing beverage that’s reminiscent of the original Nedicks Orange Drink.
Can I use store-bought orange juice if I’m short on time?
Yes, store-bought juice can be a convenient substitute. Opt for high-quality, not-from-concentrate orange juice to retain the fresh taste. However, freshly squeezed juice delivers the best flavor and citrus aroma, which is key to capturing that iconic Nedicks experience. If you choose store-bought juice, consider adjusting the simple syrup amount based on the juice’s sweetness, remembering to maintain a balance of tang and sweetness.
What are some serving suggestions for Nedicks Orange Drink?
Serve it ice cold in tall glasses. Garnish each glass with a fresh orange slice or peel for a burst of color. Pair the drink with salty snacks like pretzels or chips to balance its sweetness, or enjoy it alongside classic hot dogs, mini sandwiches, or sweet pastries for a nostalgic meal. Add a striped straw for extra charm, and enjoy the timeless taste that Nedicks Orange Drink is famous for.
How can I keep the carbonated fizz in my Nedicks Orange Drink longer?
To maintain fizz, ensure that all liquids and glasses are well chilled before mixing. Gently stir carbonated water into the blend instead of shaking or blending it, which helps preserve the bubbles. Serve the drink immediately after adding carbonation, and keep extra carbonated water on hand if you plan to make multiple servings. By following these simple steps, you’ll maximize the effervescence of your homemade Nedicks Orange Drink.