Sicilian Lemon Coffee is a bright and refreshing lemon iced coffee made with strong coffee, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, ice, and drinking water. It may sound unusual at first, but the combination of coffee and lemon works surprisingly well. The lemon adds a fresh citrus aroma, while the coffee keeps its deep roasted flavor, creating a drink that is light, slightly tangy, and perfect for hot days.
In this recipe, I use moka pot coffee as the strong coffee base, but you can also use espresso or any strongly brewed coffee you enjoy. The recipe includes a balanced ratio of lemon juice, simple syrup, coffee, water, and ice, so the drink is refreshing without being too sour. It is a simple homemade iced coffee recipe for summer afternoons, brunch, or anytime you want a different kind of coffee drink.

Sicilian Lemon Coffee
Equipment
- Moka Pot
- Coffee Grinder If using whole coffee beans
- Serving Glass
- Citrus juicer optional
Ingredients
- 30 g lemon juice
- 30 g simple syrup sugarand water ratio 3:1
- 80 g strong coffee such as moka pot coffee or espresso
- 150 g drinking water
- 180 g ice cubes
Instructions
- Brew the Strong CoffeeFirst, prepare the strong coffee. I used a moka pot for this recipe. Add 140 cc of room-temperature water to the lower chamber, then add 20 g of ground coffee to the filter basket. Screw the moka pot together and heat over medium-low heat until the coffee is extracted.

- Extract Fresh Lemon JuiceNext, prepare the lemon juice. If the lemon membrane is thick, lightly score the center with a knife. This makes it easier to squeeze out the juice. You can also add a little lemon pulp for extra flavor.

- Layer the Drink to PerfectionTo assemble the Sicilian Lemon Coffee, add 30 g of simple syrup, 30 g of lemon juice, 180 g of ice cubes, 80 g of strong coffee, and 150 g of drinking water in order.

- Garnish and Serve!Your Sicilian Lemon Coffee is ready. For a more refreshing look, garnish the drink with a thin lemon slice on top before serving.

Video
Cooking & Storage Tips
- You do not have to use a moka pot for this recipe. Any strong coffee you enjoy can work, such as espresso, moka pot coffee, or strongly brewed coffee. The coffee strength can be adjusted to your taste.
- This recipe is balanced to be refreshing without being too sour, while still keeping the aroma of coffee. If you prefer a stronger lemon flavor, you can add a little more lemon juice. If you prefer a sweeter drink, add more simple syrup.
- Simple syrup mixes more easily into iced drinks than granulated sugar. For this recipe, I used a thicker simple syrup made with a 3:1 sugar-to-water ratio.
- A little lemon pulp can make the drink taste more natural and fruity, but it is optional. You can strain the lemon juice if you prefer a smoother drink.
- Add the coffee after the ice and lemon mixture so the drink cools down quickly and keeps a cleaner, layered look.
Tools & equipment you may need
Moka Express

Press Juicer

Last Updated on 2026-06-13