Homemade Raspberry Lemonade
Made with fresh raspberry syrup, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and just the right amount of sweetness, this easy pink lemonade is sure to be a hit with everyone. Not to mention it's super easy to make!
Ingredients
for the raspberry syrup
- 1 cup fresh raspberries frozen raspberries will work too, but I like to use fresh ones whenever I have the chance!
- 1 cup white sugar OR cane sugar
for the lemonade
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice about 4-6 lemons, depending on their size. I highly recommend juicing fresh lemons for this recipe, as it will give you the best flavor. But in a pinch, store-bought lemon juice will work too.
- 5-6 cups cold water you may need more depending on how strong you want your lemonade to be.
- ice cubes
- lemon slices, and extra raspberries optional
Instructions
Make The Raspberry Syrup - there are two different ways I like to make my raspberry syrup. Usually, I use my more traditional simple syrup method, but if you are short on time, I would recommend using method two.
Method One:
- Place the raspberries and sugar in a Mason jar or an airtight container. Cover tightly and gently shake to coat the raspberries with the sugar.
- Allow the mixture to sit on the counter for 4-6 hours(you can also leave it overnight) or until the raspberries have released their juices and the sugar has started to break down.
- Then transfer the mixture to a small saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture comes to a simmer. Simmer, stirring often, until the sugar has completely dissolved.
- Once the sugar is dissolved, remove the pan from the heat and allow the syrup to cool slightly. Then pour through a fine mesh strainer. Discard the raspberry pulp. And allow the syrup to cool to room temperature before using.
Method Two:
- Puree your fresh raspberries in an upright blender or food processor. Then transfer your raspberry puree to a small saucepan, add the sugar, and stir to combine
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently. Simmer, stirring often, until the sugar has completely dissolved.
- Once the sugar is dissolved, remove the pan from the heat and allow the syrup to cool slightly. Then pour through a fine mesh strainer. Discard the raspberry pulp. And allow the syrup to cool to room temperature before using.
- Homemade raspberry syrup can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 week. You can use your syrup as soon as it is cooled. Or keep it in the fridge until ready to use.
Now to make the lemonade
- Pour all of your prepared raspberry syrup into a large pitcher. Add the fresh lemon juice, followed by the cold water.
- Stir until the syrup is completely combined.
- Taste and adjust as needed. You may want to add an additional cup of water or extra lemon juice, depending on your personal preferences.
- Then add your lemon slices and fresh raspberries(if using) to the pitcher, followed by plenty of ice.
- Give your lemonade one final stir and serve immediately.
- Enjoy!
Notes
Homemade raspberry lemonade can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. I would recommend keeping it in a large glass jar with a lid or a pitcher that has a cover. You can also easily make this recipe ahead of time! Though I would recommend waiting to add the ice and garnishes until you are ready to serve.
If you aren’t a fan of having things floating in your drinks, but if you’d still like to make this lemonade look fancy for an event or special occasion, you can always add a lemon wedge and fresh raspberry to the edges of each glass. Or even make decorative ice by freezing ripe raspberries and lemon pieces in the water when making your ice!
You can also prep your lemonade mixture in a large bowl or a spartae pitcher, and then pour it over your ice, lemon slices, and raspberries. I would especially suggest doing this if you aren’t sure how much your pitcher can hold.
This lemonade can easily be made with any kind of berry, not just raspberries! Simply switch out the raspberries in the recipe for your favorite berry; blackberries, blueberries, and starwberries all work great!
You can also check out my post HERE on how to make homemade syrup out of any kind of berry. Plus more tips for storing and getting the strongest flavor!
Nutrition
Calories: 148kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 0.4gFat: 0.3gSaturated Fat: 0.02gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.1gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.01gSodium: 11mgPotassium: 73mgFiber: 1gSugar: 35gVitamin A: 9IUVitamin C: 21mgCalcium: 14mgIron: 0.2mg
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!