Foolproof Strawberry Lemonade Recipe
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There’s nothing like a glass of homemade strawberry lemonade to brighten up your day! This quick and easy recipe uses just 5 simple ingredients to create a burst of sweet and tangy flavor. You’ll love how effortlessly it comes together, giving you that summer vibe with every sip. In just 10 minutes, you’ll have a pitcher of refreshing goodness that disappears fast.
I’m all about drinks that make you feel like you’re on vacation, no matter the season. My kids always request tropical smoothies, and my husband and I enjoy a vodka cranberry from time to time, even when it’s not the holidays. But lately, strawberry lemonade has taken the top spot in our house.
It’s perfect for brunch with a breakfast sandwich, casual afternoons, backyard BBQs, or just when you need a fruity boost. With its bright, bold flavors, it’s the ultimate go-to for any occasion. One sip, and you’ll know why it’s become our favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple to make: Just gather some fresh strawberries, lemon juice, water, and a little sugar, and you’re all set for a delicious homemade drink.
- Make it ahead of time: Planning ahead? Prepare a batch and store it in the fridge. That way, you’ve always got a cool, refreshing drink on hand when the craving strikes.
- Quick refreshment: Need a drink in a hurry? This lemonade is ready in no time and works great for last-minute gatherings or family meal times.
- Classic with a twist: If you love lemonade but want something a little different, adding strawberries gives it a fresh, fruity upgrade. It’s a fun spin on the classic that everyone will enjoy.
- Mix it up: Get creative by adding a handful of fresh herbs like mint or basil for extra flavor. You can even swap in sparkling water for a fizzy version or blend it into a frozen treat!
- Perfect for cocktails: Take your lemonade to the next level by mixing it with a splash of vodka or tequila for a grown-up version. It’s great for parties or a casual night in.
How to Make Strawberry Lemonade
Give your lemonade a fresh upgrade with the addition of sweet, juicy strawberries! The combination of tart lemon and ripe berries creates a flavor that’s bright, refreshing, and downright irresistible. You only need about 5 minutes to prep, and taking the time to make the simple syrup adds that perfect touch of sweetness. It’s a quick and easy way to take your favorite drink to the next level.
Looking for the full recipe? Scroll down for a printable card with all the ingredients, measurements, and step-by-step instructions!
Ingredients You Need
- Simple syrup: Start with sugar and water to make a smooth, sweet base for your lemonade. It’s essential for balancing the tartness of the lemons.
- Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed is always the way to go! I usually grab Sunkist lemons, but any variety works. If you’re using bottled juice, just keep in mind it might not have the same bright, zesty flavor. Squeeze out extra lemon juice and make lemon blueberry loaf – the perfect afternoon treat to pair with this refresher!
- Strawberries: Choose ripe, juicy strawberries for the best flavor and that beautiful pink color. Fresh is ideal, but if you’re using frozen, make sure they’re fully thawed before blending.
- Cold water: Dilutes the lemonade to the perfect consistency so it’s not too strong. It helps mellow out the flavors for a perfectly balanced drink.
Optional add-ins:
- Lemon slices, for garnish
- Whole strawberries, for garnish
- Ice cubes
Step-By-Step Instructions
Making the perfect strawberry lemonade is easier than you think! Just follow these four simple steps, and you’ll have a refreshing, sweet-tart drink that everyone will love.
Step 1: Prepare the syrup
Combine 1 cup of sugar and 1 cup of water in a small saucepan. Heat over medium until the sugar dissolves completely. Once it reaches a gentle boil, remove from heat and let it cool for about 30 minutes.
Step 2: Blend
While the syrup cools, blend fresh strawberries with a little water until smooth. For a more refined texture, strain the puree through a fine mesh sieve. You can skip this step if you prefer a slightly thicker lemonade. If you haven’t already, strain the lemon juice to remove seeds and excess pulp for a smoother result.
Step 3: Combine
In a large pitcher, mix the cooled syrup, fresh lemon juice, strawberry puree, and 4 cups of cold water. Stir everything together until well combined.
Step 4: Adjust
Give it a taste and see how it balances. If it’s too sweet, add a bit more lemon juice. If it’s too tart, add a splash of water or a little extra sugar. Adjust until you’re happy with the taste.
Step 5: Serve
Pour the lemonade over ice, either in the pitcher or directly into glasses. Add a few lemon slices and whole strawberries for a colorful garnish. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Substitutions
You only need a few simple ingredients to make this strawberry lemonade, but if you’re missing something or want to switch it up, here are some easy substitutions that work just as well:
- Lemon juice: For a citrusy variation, replace the lemon juice with lime juice and make a tangy strawberry limeade.
- Strawberries: While nothing quite matches fresh strawberries, you can switch it up with raspberries, blackberries, or a combination of summer berries for a different fruity kick.
- Cold water: Replace some or all of the water with sparkling water or club soda for a fizzy treat. For a tropical twist, try using coconut water. A splash of rose water also gives the lemonade a floral hint.
Expert Tips
- No more watery drinks: Freeze some of the lemonade in ice cube trays ahead of time. These flavored cubes will keep your drink cold without watering it down as they melt.
- Adjust the sweetness: Start with a little sugar and add more as needed. If your strawberries are naturally sweet, you might not need as much. On the other hand, if they’re a bit tart, just add a bit more to balance things out.
- Add a fresh twist: Take your lemonade up a notch by adding fresh herbs like basil or mint during blending for a hint of freshness. You can also stir in a splash of vanilla extract for a subtle, richer flavor.
- Make it a cocktail: Turn this lemonade into a fun summer drink by adding a splash of vodka, rum, tequila, or even champagne. It’s an easy way to serve up a light, fruity cocktail.
- Let it rest: After mixing, pop the lemonade in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This resting time helps the flavors meld, giving you a more balanced and refreshing taste.
- Keep it cool: For a frosty touch, chill your serving glasses in the freezer for about 10 minutes before pouring. It makes the lemonade feel extra refreshing, especially on hot days.
How to Store This Recipe
Prepare your strawberry lemonade ahead of time by skipping the ice cubes and storing it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. When it’s time to enjoy, just add ice to the pitcher or pour over ice in individual glasses.
If you have any leftovers, transfer them to a jar or covered pitcher and keep them in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh and delicious for 5 to 7 days!
What to Serve with Strawberry Lemonade
Strawberry lemonade is a versatile and refreshing drink that works well with meals year-round. For a party feast, serve it with avocado deviled eggs, pineapple cheese ball, or chicken quesadillas.
When it comes to lighter fare, it pairs nicely with fresh salads, seafood dishes, or picnic-style sandwiches. During summer, it’s a great addition to a beach-themed charcuterie board. And when brunch rolls around, pour a glass to go with cinnamon rolls, muffins, pancakes, or waffles for a bright, fruity touch.
More Drinks To Try
Refreshing Strawberry Lemonade Recipe
Ingredients
For the syrup
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
For the lemonade
- 1 cup lemon juice about 4-6 lemons, freshly squeezed
- 1 cup strawberries fresh, hulled and halved
- 4 cups cold water to dilute
Optional Garnish:
- lemon slices
- whole strawberries
- ice cubes
Instructions
- Combine 1 cup of sugar and 1 cup of water in a small saucepan. Heat over medium until the sugar dissolves completely. Once it reaches a gentle boil, remove from heat and let it cool for about 30 minutes.
- While the syrup cools, blend fresh strawberries with a little water until smooth. For a more refined texture, strain the puree through a fine mesh sieve. You can skip this step if you prefer a slightly thicker lemonade. If you haven’t already, strain the lemon juice to remove seeds and excess pulp for a smoother result.
- In a large pitcher, mix the cooled syrup, fresh lemon juice, strawberry puree, and 4 cups of cold water. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Give it a taste and see how it balances. If it’s too sweet, add a bit more lemon juice. If it’s too tart, add a splash of water or a little extra sugar. Adjust until you’re happy with the taste.
- Pour the lemonade over ice, either in the pitcher or directly into glasses. Add a few lemon slices and whole strawberries for a colorful garnish. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
- Freeze some of the lemonade in ice cube trays ahead of time. These flavored cubes will keep your drink cold without watering it down as they melt.
- Start with a little sugar and add more as needed. If your strawberries are naturally sweet, you might not need as much. On the other hand, if they’re a bit tart, just add a bit more to balance things out.
- Take your lemonade up a notch by adding fresh herbs like basil or mint during blending for a hint of freshness. You can also stir in a splash of vanilla extract for a subtle, richer flavor.
- Turn this lemonade into a fun summer drink by adding a splash of vodka, rum, tequila, or even champagne. It’s an easy way to serve up a light, fruity cocktail.
- After mixing, pop the lemonade in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This resting time helps the flavors meld, giving you a more balanced and refreshing taste.
- For a frosty touch, chill your serving glasses in the freezer for about 10 minutes before pouring. It makes the lemonade feel extra refreshing, especially on hot days.
