Old Fashioned 50-50 Cordial

Lemon and Orange – just like mum used to make

If you grew up in Australia, you might remember 50–50 Cordial – that bright, tangy mix of lemon and orange that was a staple in so many kitchens back in the ’70s & ’80s. My mum always had a bottle made up in the fridge, ready to pour over ice cubes when I got home from school.
This homemade version brings back those memories, without the artificial colours or preservatives you find in store-bought cordials today. It’s simple, fresh, and wonderfully nostalgic – just the way we like it.

Print Recipe

Homemade 50–50 Cordial Concentrate

A refreshing homemade cordial made with real lemons and oranges – a classic Aussie 50–50 favourite from the ’70s and ’80s, brought back to life with simple, natural ingredients.Makes about 2½ litres of concentrate cordial.

Prep Time20

Course:Drinks

Cuisine:Australian

Servings:50

Author:Stella Cherie

Ingredients

3 Lemons
3 Oranges
6 cups Sugar
6 cups Boiling Water
1 tablespoon Citric Acid
1 tablespoon Tartaric Acid

Instructions

Prepare the fruit: Finely grate the rind from the lemons and oranges into a large heatproof bowl or jug.
Juice the fruit: Squeeze out the juice, strain to remove seeds, and pour it over the rind.
Combine the base: Add sugar, citric acid, and tartaric acid to the bowl.
Add boiling water: Carefully pour in the boiling water and stir until all the sugar has dissolved.
Rest and strain: Cover and let the mixture stand until completely cooled, then strain into clean bottles or jars. Seal well.
To serve: Dilute to taste – about 1 part cordial to 4 parts cold water or lemonade.

Storage

Keep refrigerated. Will last around 2–3 weeks.

A Note from Me

This cordial reminds me of simple times – when a jug of something cold on the table meant family, laughter, and summer days that seemed to last forever. Try it once, and you’ll see why 50–50 was a household favourite for generations.