Description
This Refreshing Peach Lemonade is a perfect summer drink combining juicy peaches and zesty lemons to create a vibrant, naturally sweetened beverage. Made with a homemade peach syrup and fresh lemon juice, it’s easy to prepare, customizable, and ideal for any occasion such as BBQs, picnics, or casual lounging. The drink is hydrating, family-friendly, and a healthy alternative to store-bought lemonades.
Ingredients
Scale
Peach Syrup
- 4 medium ripe peaches, peeled and sliced
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (240ml) water
Lemonade
- 1 cup (240ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4–6 lemons)
- 3 cups (720ml) cold water
- Ice cubes, as needed
- Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)
- Peach slices (optional, for garnish)
Optional Variations
- Sparkling water (to replace some or all of the cold water for fizz)
- Natural sweeteners like honey or agave to replace sugar
- Dash of vanilla extract (for warm flavor note)
Instructions
- Make the Peach Syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine the sliced peaches, ½ cup granulated sugar, and 1 cup water. Heat over medium heat and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally and cook until peaches are soft and the mixture thickens slightly, about 10 minutes.
- Blend and Strain: Allow the syrup to cool slightly. For a smoother texture, blend the peach mixture until pureed. Then strain it through a fine mesh strainer into a bowl or pitcher, pressing on the pulp to extract maximum flavor.
- Squeeze the Lemons: While the syrup cools, juice the lemons to yield about 1 cup (240ml) fresh lemon juice. Adjust the amount according to your preferred tartness.
- Mix the Lemonade: In a large pitcher, combine the prepared peach syrup, fresh lemon juice, and 3 cups (720ml) of cold water. Stir well to blend all flavors. Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness by adding more syrup or water, if desired.
- Serve: Fill glasses with plenty of ice cubes, pour in the peach lemonade, and garnish with fresh mint leaves or peach slices for an extra-refreshing touch. For best flavor, chill the lemonade in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use ripe, juicy peaches for the best natural sweetness and flavor.
- Adjust sugar quantity to suit your sweetness preference or substitute with honey, agave, stevia, or monk fruit sweetener.
- If you prefer pulp in your lemonade, skip the straining step or use a cheesecloth.
- Chilling the lemonade for an hour or more helps flavors meld and improves taste.
- You can store peach syrup separately in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Frozen peaches can be used if fresh aren’t available; thaw beforehand.
- Add sparkling water in place of cold water for a bubbly version.
- For an adult version, add vodka or peach schnapps.
- To peel peaches easily, blanch in boiling water for 30 seconds then plunge into ice water; skins will slip off.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Drinks
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: peach lemonade, summer drink, refreshing lemonade, homemade lemonade, peach syrup, fresh lemonade, healthy drink, backyard BBQ beverage
