Summertime Drink

Prep: 10 min Cuisine: American

A refreshing summertime beverage combining bright orange flavors with sweet and tangy notes. Perfect for outdoor gatherings or cooling off on hot days, this drink is easy to prepare and appeals to all ages. Its vibrant color and citrusy taste make it a crowd-pleaser for any casual occasion.

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Ingredients

  • 16 oz. can orange juice
  • 2 packages orange Kool-Aid
  • 1 1/2 cups sugar
  • 3 1/2 quarts water

Instructions

  1. Mix the orange juice, orange Kool-Aid, sugar, and water in a large container.
  2. Stir well until the sugar and Kool-Aid are fully dissolved.
  3. Serve chilled over ice.

Tips & Substitutions

For a refreshing twist, consider adding a splash of lemon or lime juice to enhance the citrus flavor. You can also substitute the orange Kool-Aid with a different flavor for variety. If you want a lower sugar option, try using a sugar substitute or reducing the sugar to taste. Serve this drink in a large pitcher to keep it cool at gatherings. Browse more American recipes for summer drinks.

Serving Suggestions

This Summertime Drink is perfect for barbecues, picnics, or pool parties. Serve it in tall glasses garnished with orange slices or mint leaves for a festive touch. It pairs beautifully with light snacks like French Fried Carrots or can be enjoyed alongside a slice of Strawberry Glace Pie for dessert.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover drink in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain its freshness and carbonation, avoid storing it in direct sunlight. When ready to serve again, simply pour over ice; no need to reheat, as it's best enjoyed chilled.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Summertime Drink contains roughly 185 calories, with 3g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (107% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

185 kcal 9% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3.4g 7% DV
Total Fat 0.5g 1% DV
Carbs 45.2g 16% DV
Fiber 4.8g 17% DV
Sugar 19.4g 39% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 26mg 1% DV
Potassium 591.8mg 13% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 14.9mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 96.4mg 100% DV
Calcium 92.1mg 7% DV
Iron 1.2mg 7% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this drink ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the drink a day in advance. Just make sure to store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld together nicely, enhancing the overall taste.

Is this drink suitable for kids?

Absolutely! This Summertime Drink is a fun and colorful option for children. The sweetness from the orange juice and Kool-Aid makes it appealing. Just ensure they enjoy it in moderation, as it is quite sugary.

Can I use fresh orange juice instead of canned?

Yes, using fresh-squeezed orange juice will add a vibrant flavor to your drink. However, you may need to adjust the amount of sugar depending on the sweetness of the fresh juice. Fresh juice can elevate the overall taste experience.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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