Why Make This Recipe
Homemade Strawberry Lemonade is a delightful drink that is perfect for warm days or any time you want a refreshing treat. It combines the sweetness of strawberries with the tanginess of fresh lemons, creating a balance that is both tasty and thirst-quenching. Making your own lemonade at home means you can control the sweetness and use fresh ingredients, making it a healthier option than many store-bought drinks.
How to Make Homemade Strawberry Lemonade
Ingredients:
- 1 Cup Sugar
- 1 Cup Water
- 2 Cups Strawberries
- 1 1/2 Cup Lemon Juice (about six lemons juiced)
- 6 Cups Cold Water
Directions:
- Start by making a simple syrup. In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of sugar and 1 cup of water. Heat over medium until the sugar fully dissolves. Set aside to cool.
- While the syrup cools, wash and hull the strawberries. Place them in a blender and blend until smooth.
- In a large pitcher, combine the blended strawberries with the lemon juice.
- Pour the cooled simple syrup into the pitcher.
- Add 6 cups of cold water to the mixture and stir well until everything is combined.
- Taste the lemonade and adjust the sweetness if needed by adding more sugar or syrup to your liking.
- Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Homemade Strawberry Lemonade
Serve your Homemade Strawberry Lemonade over ice in a tall glass. You can garnish with fresh strawberry slices or a lemon wedge for added flair. This drink is great for parties, picnics, or just a refreshing treat on a hot day.
How to Store Homemade Strawberry Lemonade
To store leftover lemonade, simply transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It typically stays fresh for about 3 to 5 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as the ingredients may settle.
Tips to Make Homemade Strawberry Lemonade
- Make sure to use ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
- For a smoother texture, strain the blended strawberries through a fine sieve to remove seeds.
- Adjust the water depending on how strong you want the flavor; less water for a more concentrated taste.
Variation
If you want to try something different, you can add other fruits such as raspberries or blueberries to the mix. A few mint leaves can also be a delightful addition, giving the lemonade a fresh twist.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Just make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess water before blending.
Is it possible to make this without sugar?
Absolutely! You can substitute sugar with honey or a sugar alternative like stevia. Just adjust the amount to suit your taste.
Can I make this in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the lemonade a day ahead of time. Just be sure to keep it refrigerated, and stir well before serving.
Homemade Strawberry Lemonade
Ingredients
For the Simple Syrup
- 1 Cup Sugar Use granulated sugar for best results.
- 1 Cup Water This water is used to dissolve the sugar.
For the Lemonade
- 2 Cups Strawberries Use ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
- 1.5 Cups Lemon Juice About six lemons juiced.
- 6 Cups Cold Water Adjust based on flavor preference.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of sugar and 1 cup of water. Heat over medium until the sugar fully dissolves. Set aside to cool.
- Wash and hull the strawberries, then place them in a blender and blend until smooth.
- In a large pitcher, combine the blended strawberries with the lemon juice.
- Pour the cooled simple syrup into the pitcher.
- Add 6 cups of cold water to the mixture and stir well until everything is combined.
- Taste the lemonade and adjust the sweetness if needed by adding more sugar or syrup to your liking.
- Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.