Homemade Ginger Ale, Two Ways (Syrup + Tea-Based)

Homemade Ginger Ale, Two Ways (Syrup + Tea-Based)

This homemade ginger ale hits with bold, spicy ginger flavor and fresh citrus in every bubbly sip. Whether you make it with a sweet ginger syrup or opt for a lighter, honey-sweetened tea base, both versions are refreshing, easy, and better than store-bought. Customize the sweetness and citrus to your liking, it’s your drink, your vibe.

Ingredients:

For Ginger Syrup Ginger Ale (Cane Sugar Version):

• 1 cup fresh ginger, peeled and chopped
• 2 cups organic cane sugar
• 1 cup filtered water
• 6 cups chilled sparkling water
• Lemon juice, to taste
• Lime juice, to taste
• Optional: splash of vanilla extract

For Ginger Tea Ginger Ale (Honey-Sweetened Version):

• 1 cup fresh ginger, peeled and chopped
• 2 cups filtered water
• 6 cups chilled sparkling water
• Lemon juice, to taste
• Honey or maple syrup, to taste

Instructions:

Make the Ginger Syrup (Cane Sugar Version):

1. Simmer the syrup: In a saucepan, combine chopped ginger, cane sugar, and 1 cup water. Bring to a simmer and cook uncovered over medium heat for about 20 minutes, or until thickened and syrupy.
2. Strain and cool: Strain out the ginger using a fine mesh sieve and let the syrup cool completely.
3. Assemble your drink: For each serving, combine about 2 tablespoons of syrup with 1 cup chilled sparkling water. Add a squeeze of lemon and lime juice to taste. For a twist, add a tiny splash of vanilla extract.

Make the Ginger Tea Base (Honey Version):

1. Simmer the tea: In a pot, add chopped ginger and 2 cups water. Simmer for about 15 minutes to extract the flavor.
2. Strain and cool: Remove from heat, strain the liquid, and let it cool completely.
3. Build your glass: For each drink, use about ¼ cup of the ginger tea, 1 cup chilled sparkling water, a good squeeze of lemon juice, and your choice of honey or maple syrup to sweeten.

Let’s Talk Ingredients: Why They Matter

1. Fresh Ginger
Fresh ginger is the star here. It’s spicy, citrusy, and known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Chop it fine to extract more flavor, and always use fresh—not powdered—for the best results.

2. Organic Cane Sugar or Honey
Cane sugar gives you that classic soda-shop sweetness and a thick syrupy base. Honey, on the other hand, brings a floral, soothing note and a more natural vibe. Maple syrup also works and adds warmth.

3. Sparkling Water
Bubbly water brings everything together. Use your favorite sparkling water or even club soda. Make sure it’s cold so the flavors pop.

4. Lemon & Lime Juice
Citrus balances the heat of ginger. Use freshly squeezed lemon and lime for brightness and tang. Adjust to your taste—some like it tart, others mellow.

5. Vanilla Extract (Optional)
A tiny splash of vanilla in the syrup-based version adds a soft, aromatic undertone that rounds out the spice beautifully.