A Refreshing Classic
Forget store-bought sodas—this Old-Fashioned Homemade Ginger Ale is fresh, bubbly, and packed with real ginger flavor! Made with a spicy ginger syrup, fresh lemon juice, and sparkling water, this refreshing drink is naturally sweetened and free from artificial ingredients.
I love this recipe because it’s simple to make, bursting with bold flavor, and customizable to your taste. Whether you’re sipping it on a hot summer day or using it as a natural remedy for nausea, this homemade ginger ale is a must-try!
Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe
Q: How spicy is homemade ginger ale?
It depends on how much ginger you use! You can increase or decrease the ginger amount to adjust the spiciness.
Q: Can I make this sugar-free?
Yes! Swap the sugar for honey, agave, or a sugar-free sweetener like monk fruit or stevia.
Q: How long does homemade ginger syrup last?
It keeps in the fridge for up to 2 weeks in an airtight container.
Q: Can I use powdered ginger instead of fresh?
Fresh ginger is best for flavor, but in a pinch, you can use 1 teaspoon ground ginger per 1 tablespoon fresh ginger.
Q: Can I turn this into a cocktail?
Yes! Add a splash of bourbon, rum, or vodka for a homemade ginger mule or whiskey ginger.
What You Need to Make Old-Fashioned Ginger Ale
For the Ginger Syrup:
- 1 cup fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup sugar (or honey)
- 2 cups water
For the Ginger Ale:
- ¼ cup ginger syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup sparkling water or club soda
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon or lime juice
- Ice cubes
- Lemon slices & mint for garnish (optional)
How to Make Old-Fashioned Homemade Ginger Ale
Step 1: Make the Ginger Syrup
- In a saucepan, combine sliced ginger, sugar, and water.
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Let simmer for 15-20 minutes, then remove from heat and cool.
- Strain the syrup through a fine mesh sieve into a jar.
Step 2: Assemble the Ginger Ale
- Fill a glass with ice cubes.
- Pour in ¼ cup ginger syrup and 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice.
- Top with sparkling water, stir gently, and adjust sweetness if needed.
Step 3: Garnish & Serve
- Garnish with lemon slices and fresh mint.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Homemade Ginger Ale
✔ Use fresh ginger – The fresher the ginger, the better the flavor!
✔ Let the syrup steep longer – For a stronger ginger taste, let it sit for an hour before straining.
✔ Want a fizzy kick? – Use soda water instead of sparkling water for extra bubbles.
✔ Make it spicy – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra warmth.
✔ For extra zest – Stir in a splash of orange juice or a few dashes of bitters.
Reader Reviews
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Emma L. – “The best homemade ginger ale I’ve ever tried! So fresh and flavorful.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟 James K. – “Super easy to make! Loved the natural sweetness from honey.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Samantha W. – “Tastes way better than store-bought! I added extra lemon, and it was perfect.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟 Lucas R. – “Made this into a Moscow mule, and it was amazing!”
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Jessica T. – “This is now my go-to drink! So refreshing and easy to make.”
Printable Recipe
Old-Fashioned Homemade Ginger Ale
This Old-Fashioned Homemade Ginger Ale is a refreshing, naturally sweetened soda made with fresh ginger, lemon, and sparkling water—better than store-bought!
Ingredients
- For the Ginger Syrup:
- 1 cup fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup sugar (or honey)
- 2 cups water
- For the Ginger Ale:
- ¼ cup ginger syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup sparkling water or club soda
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon or lime juice
- Ice cubes
- Lemon slices & mint for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Ginger Syrup
- In a saucepan, combine sliced ginger, sugar, and water.
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Let simmer for 15-20 minutes, then remove from heat and cool.
- Strain the syrup through a fine mesh sieve into a jar.
Step 2: Assemble the Ginger Ale
- Fill a glass with ice cubes.
- Pour in ¼ cup ginger syrup and 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice.
- Top with sparkling water, stir gently, and adjust sweetness if needed.
Step 3: Garnish & Serve
- Garnish with lemon slices and fresh mint.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Check out some of our other recipes / crafts.
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If You Enjoyed This Recipe, Please Share!
If you loved this Old-Fashioned Homemade Ginger Ale, don’t keep it to yourself! Share it on social media, pin it on Pinterest, or send it to a friend who loves classic drinks. I’d love to see your versions—tag me if you try it!
