Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This homemade raspberry peach lemonade is a delightful twist on the classic summer drink. The natural sweetness from fresh peaches and raspberries balances beautifully with the tartness of lemon juice, offering a refreshing and flavorful experience. It’s not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a perfect choice for gatherings and special occasions.

Ingredients

4 fresh peaches, pitted and diced
1 cup fresh raspberries
1¼ cups water
½ cup granulated sugar
7 cups cold water
1¼ cups fresh lemon juice (approximately 4 lemons)
Ice cubes
Optional garnishes: additional raspberries, peach slices, mint sprigs

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

Directions

In a blender or food processor, combine the diced peaches, raspberries, and 1¼ cups water. Blend until smooth.
Place a fine mesh sieve over a large mixing bowl and pour the fruit puree into the sieve. Use the back of a spoon to press the mixture, extracting the juice and leaving behind the solids. Discard the solids.
In a small saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and ½ cup water. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture has thickened slightly, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
In a large pitcher, combine the 7 cups cold water, fresh lemon juice, and ice cubes. Stir to mix.
Add the cooled simple syrup and the raspberry-peach juice to the pitcher. Stir well to combine.
Refrigerate the lemonade until well chilled.
Serve the lemonade over ice, garnished with additional raspberries, peach slices, and mint sprigs if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: Approximately 8 servings
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: At least 1 hour

Variations

Sugar-Free Version: Substitute the granulated sugar with a sugar alternative like stevia or monk fruit sweetener to reduce the calorie content.
Sparkling Lemonade: For a fizzy twist, replace some or all of the cold water with sparkling water.
Alcoholic Version: Add a splash of vodka or rum for an adult version of this refreshing drink.
Berry Blend: Incorporate other berries such as blackberries or blueberries for a mixed berry lemonade.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover lemonade in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: This beverage is best served cold and is not suitable for reheating.

FAQs

How can I make this recipe vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, ensure that the sugar used is vegan-friendly, as some sugars are processed with bone char. Additionally, use plant-based sweeteners like agave syrup or maple syrup as alternatives.

Can I use frozen fruit instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen peaches and raspberries can be used. Just thaw them before blending to achieve the desired consistency.

Is it necessary to strain the fruit puree?

Straining the puree helps remove seeds and skins, resulting in a smoother beverage. However, if you prefer a thicker texture with more pulp, you can skip this step.

Can I adjust the sweetness of the lemonade?

Absolutely. Taste the lemonade after combining all ingredients and adjust the sweetness by adding more sugar or sweetener to suit your preference.

How can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the lemonade up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in the refrigerator, and give it a good stir before serving.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Freshly squeezed lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used as a substitute if necessary.

How do I prevent the lemonade from becoming watery?

Serve the lemonade over ice cubes made from the lemonade itself to prevent dilution.

Can I use a different type of sweetener?

Yes, alternatives like honey, agave nectar, or stevia can be used. Adjust the quantity to taste, as different sweeteners vary in sweetness levels.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.

Can I make this recipe without a blender?

If you don’t have a blender, you can mash the fruits thoroughly with a fork or potato masher and then strain them to extract the juice.

Conclusion

Homemade Raspberry Peach Lemonade is a delightful and refreshing drink that combines the natural sweetness of peaches and raspberries with the tartness of fresh lemons. It’s perfect for quenching your thirst on a hot day or serving at gatherings. With its vibrant color and delicious flavor, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends.