Strawberry Lemonade
This homemade Strawberry Lemonade is a vibrant, refreshing drink made with real fresh strawberries, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and a simple syrup that ensures perfectly balanced sweetness in every sip. Unlike store-bought versions, this gorgeous pink beverage is free from artificial colors and preservatives, naturally sweetened by ripe summer berries, and endlessly customizable to your taste. It comes together in just 15 minutes and is perfect for backyard gatherings, pool parties, or lazy weekend brunches.
Equipment
- Blender or food processor High-powered blender recommended for smoothest puree
- Fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth For removing seeds and pulp from strawberry puree
- Large Pitcher At least 2-quart capacity
- Citrus juicer Manual or electric; makes juicing 6-8 lemons much easier
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon For stirring
- Cutting board and knife
- Small saucepan For making simple syrup
- Drinks dispenser with tap (optional) For parties and gatherings
Ingredients
Lemonade
- 2 cups fresh strawberries about 300g, hulled and halved
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice about 240ml, from 6-8 lemons
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar 150g, adjust to taste; divided (1/4 cup for puree, 1/2 cup for simple syrup)
- 4 cups cold water 960ml; divided (1 cup for simple syrup, 3 cups for lemonade)
- ice cubes for serving
Optional Garnishes
- fresh mint leaves optional, for garnish
- lemon slices optional, for garnish
- extra strawberries optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse the strawberries under cool running water, remove the green leafy tops (hulls), and cut each berry in half to help them blend more easily.
- Add the hulled strawberries and 1/4 cup of the sugar to a blender; blend on high for 30–45 seconds until smooth, then pour through a fine-mesh strainer, pressing with the back of a spoon to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the seeds and pulp.
- Roll each lemon firmly on the counter to release more juice, then cut in half and juice with a citrus juicer, straining out any seeds or pulp, until you have 1 cup of fresh lemon juice.
- Combine the remaining 1/2 cup sugar with 1 cup of water in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring until the sugar fully dissolves and the liquid is clear (about 3–5 minutes); do not boil. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Pour the strained strawberry puree, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and remaining 3 cups of cold water into a large pitcher and stir vigorously until fully combined; taste and adjust sweetness as needed.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours, then stir well, pour over ice-filled glasses, and garnish with lemon slices, fresh strawberries, or mint sprigs if desired.
Notes
- Use ripe strawberries: The sweeter and more deeply red your berries, the better the flavor. Avoid berries with white or green patches.
- Don't skip straining: Pressing the puree through a fine-mesh strainer removes seeds and gritty texture for a smooth, professional-quality drink.
- Fresh lemon juice is essential: Bottled lemon juice has a bitter, artificial taste — always use freshly squeezed for the best results.
- Adjust sweetness gradually: Start with less sugar and add more one tablespoon at a time, as preferences vary widely.
- Frozen strawberries work great: Thaw completely and drain excess liquid before blending; you may need to add a little extra sugar since frozen berries can be less sweet.
- Make lemonade ice cubes: Freeze some finished lemonade in ice cube trays so your drink won't get watered down as the ice melts.
- Make it sparkling: Replace 1–2 cups of water with sparkling water or club soda just before serving for a fizzy twist.
- Adult version: Add 1–2 ounces of vodka, rum, or tequila per glass for a simple cocktail.
- Storage: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days; stir before serving as settling is normal. Can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Make ahead: Prepare up to 24 hours in advance — the flavors mellow and develop nicely overnight in the fridge.
Nutrition
Serving: 1GlassCalories: 95kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 1gSodium: 2mgPotassium: 115mgFiber: 1gSugar: 22gVitamin C: 45mgCalcium: 1mgIron: 2mg
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!