Homemade Strawberry Lemonade is a refreshing drink made with juicy strawberries, fresh lemon juice, and a simple homemade syrup. It has a bright sweet-tart flavor and is easy to make for family lunches, cookouts, or a warm afternoon at home.
Why You'll Love This Strawberry Lemonade
- Made with fresh strawberries and real lemon juice.
- Easy to adjust for a sweeter or tarter flavor.
- A colorful homemade drink for parties and family meals.
- Can be prepared ahead and chilled until serving.
Homemade Strawberry Lemonade
Fresh strawberries, real lemon juice, and a simple syrup come together in this easy homemade strawberry lemonade.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar, adjust to taste
- 1 cup (240 ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice, about 6 to 8 lemons
- 5 cups (1.2 liters) cold water, divided
- Ice, for serving
- Lemon slices and fresh strawberries, optional garnish
Instructions
- Make the simple syrup: Add the sugar and 1 cup of water to a small saucepan. Warm over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Remove from the heat and let cool.
- Blend the strawberries: Place the hulled strawberries in a blender and blend until smooth. For a smoother drink, pour the puree through a fine-mesh strainer to remove the seeds.
- Add the lemon juice: Squeeze fresh lemons and strain out any seeds. Measure 1 cup of lemon juice.
- Combine the ingredients: In a large pitcher, stir together the cooled syrup, strawberry puree, lemon juice, and remaining 4 cups of cold water.
- Taste and adjust: Taste the lemonade. Add a little more water if it is too strong, or a little extra sugar syrup if you prefer it sweeter.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 20 minutes if you have time, so the flavors can blend. Stir before serving.
- Serve: Pour into ice-filled glasses and garnish with lemon slices or fresh strawberries if desired.
Tips for the Best Strawberry Lemonade
- Use ripe, fragrant strawberries for the best natural flavor.
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice gives the drink a brighter taste than bottled juice.
- Let the simple syrup cool before mixing it into the lemonade.
- Add ice to individual glasses rather than the pitcher if you are making it ahead, so it does not become watery.
Easy Variations
- Sparkling strawberry lemonade: Replace some of the cold water with chilled sparkling water just before serving.
- Less-sweet lemonade: Start with half the syrup, then add more to taste.
- Mint strawberry lemonade: Gently muddle a few mint leaves in each glass before pouring.
- Frozen strawberry lemonade: Blend the lemonade with frozen strawberries and ice for a slushy drink.
Storage
Store strawberry lemonade in a covered pitcher in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving because the strawberry puree may settle. For the freshest flavor, add ice only to the glasses when serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes. Thaw the strawberries first, then blend them and use any juices released during thawing.
Can I make strawberry lemonade ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare it up to a day ahead and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Stir well before serving.
How can I make it less sweet?
Use less simple syrup at first and add more only after tasting. You can also add extra cold water to soften the sweetness.
Do I have to strain the strawberry puree?
No. Straining is optional. It creates a smoother drink, while leaving the puree unstrained gives the lemonade a fuller fruit texture.