Mixed Berry Lemonade

This Mixed Berry Lemonade is a refreshing, tangy, and naturally sweet drink perfect for hot summer days, picnics, or any time you need a cooling beverage. Made with homemade berry simple syrup and freshly squeezed lemon juice, this lemonade offers a burst of fruity flavor that’s both sweet and tart. With the addition of fresh lemon slices and ice, it’s a beautifully vibrant and satisfying drink that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time!

Ingredients

For the Simple Syrup:

• 12 ounces frozen mixed berries (such as strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries)

• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar

• 1 ¼ cups water

For the Lemonade:

• 1 cup lemon juice (from about 10 to 12 lemons)

• 1 ⅓ cups berry simple syrup (whole batch from above)

• 6 cups cold water

• 2 lemons, sliced for garnish

• Ice

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Simple Syrup:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the frozen mixed berries, granulated sugar, and water.

2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes. The sugar should dissolve, and the berries will begin to burst and break down.

Make the Lemon Juice:

1. While the syrup simmers, wash the lemons, slice them in half, and use a citrus press to squeeze out 1 cup of lemon juice.

Cool the Syrup:

1. Remove the berry syrup from heat and let it cool in the pot for 20 minutes.

2. Once cooled, strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve, pressing the berries to extract as much juice as possible.

Combine Lemonade:

1. In a large pitcher, combine the freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1 ⅓ cups of berry simple syrup, and 6 cups of cold water.

2. Slice 2 lemons into 8 slices and add 4 slices to the lemonade. Stir everything together to combine.

Serve:

1. Serve the lemonade in highball glasses filled with ice. Garnish each glass with a lemon slice and some fresh berries.

2. Add a straw, and enjoy this refreshing beverage!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Cooling Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Sweetness: Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less simple syrup depending on your taste preference.

• Make it Sparkling: For a bubbly twist, substitute part or all of the cold water with sparkling water or club soda.

• Herbal Twist: Add a few sprigs of fresh mint to the pitcher for a refreshing herbal flavor.

• Frozen Berries: Feel free to use any mix of berries you like, such as strawberries, raspberries, or blackberries. You can even use a blend of tropical fruits like mango and pineapple for a unique flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover berry syrup in the refrigerator for up to a week. The lemonade can be kept in the fridge for 2-3 days.

• Freezing: You can freeze the lemonade or berry syrup in an ice cube tray to use later for a cold, fruity addition to other drinks.

FAQs

Can I use fresh berries instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh berries can be used in place of frozen berries. Just ensure they are ripe and sweet for the best flavor. You may need to add more ice to help cool the drink when using fresh berries.

How do I adjust the sweetness if I’m using a sugar substitute?

If you’re using a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit, be sure to adjust according to the specific product’s sweetness level, as these can be much sweeter than granulated sugar. Start by adding a small amount and taste-testing as you go.

Can I make this lemonade ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the berry syrup in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week. When you’re ready to serve, just mix it with the lemon juice and cold water.

Can I make this lemonade without sugar?

Yes, you can make a sugar-free version by using a low-carb sweetener such as erythritol, monk fruit, or stevia. Adjust to taste.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

While fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, you can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch. Just keep in mind that fresh lemons give the lemonade a brighter, more vibrant flavor.

Conclusion

Mixed Berry Lemonade is a refreshing, naturally sweetened drink that’s perfect for hot weather or any occasion where you need a tasty, cooling beverage. The homemade berry syrup adds a delicious fruity flavor, and the fresh lemon juice balances it all out with a tangy kick. Whether you’re serving it at a summer BBQ or sipping it on a warm afternoon, this easy-to-make drink is sure to be a hit!

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