Description
This refreshing Pink Lemonade blends tart lemon juice with sweet sugar and a splash of cranberry juice, making it a perfect thirst-quencher for hot days and gatherings. Serve it chilled over ice, garnished with lemon slices and mint for a delightful twist that will impress your guests!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4–6 lemons)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 cups cold water
- 1 cup cranberry juice (or raspberry juice for a different flavor)
- Ice cubes
- Fresh lemon slices, for garnish
- Fresh mint leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Roll the lemons on a countertop to soften them. Cut in half and juice using a citrus juicer, straining to remove seeds and pulp. You should have about 1 cup of fresh lemon juice.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the lemon juice and sugar. Heat over medium, stirring continuously until the sugar dissolves (3-5 minutes). Do not boil.
- Remove from heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature.
- In a large pitcher, mix the cooled lemon-sugar mixture with 4 cups of cold water. Stir well.
- Pour in 1 cup of cranberry juice (or raspberry juice) and stir gently to combine.
- Taste and adjust sweetness by adding more sugar or lemon juice as desired.
- Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours to chill and meld flavors.
- Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the chilled lemonade over the ice.
- Garnish each glass with a fresh lemon slice and mint leaves if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your refreshing homemade pink lemonade!
Notes
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with different fruit juices like pineapple or peach for unique flavors.
- Sparkling Version: Replace some cold water with sparkling water for a fizzy drink.
- Frozen Slush: Freeze lemonade in ice cube trays and blend for a slushy treat.
- Storage: Store leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Batch for a Crowd: Easily double or triple the recipe for parties.
- Adult Version: Add vodka or gin for a refreshing cocktail.
- Herbal Twist: Muddle fresh herbs like basil or rosemary for added aroma.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes