Best Homemade Strawberry Lemonade (Just 3 Simple Ingredients)

There’s not much more refreshing than freshly squeezed lemonade. That is unless you add berries to it. This homemade Strawberry Lemonade is the BEST and has just 3 ingredients. Perfect for those hot summer days when fresh strawberries are in abundance.

Strawberry Lemonade

There just isn’t much that’s more refreshing than a glass of fresh squeezed lemonade!

Ok, maybe it gets a little better when add some berries to it. 😉 I’ve already got my recipe for Blueberry Lemonade, so I figured it’s time to publish my Strawberry Lemonade recipe so it doesn’t feel left out.

Why You’ll Love Strawberry Lemonade

Who doesn’t love the refreshing taste of fresh strawberry lemonade on a hot summer day?

I know in our house, it’s a clear winner every time.

This easy strawberry lemonade recipe combines juicy strawberries and fresh lemons to create a drink that screams summer.

It’s the perfect blend of sweet and tart, with a gorgeous pink hue that makes it irresistible. Plus, making it at home means you can adjust the sweetness level just the way you like it!

Strawberry Lemonade Ingredients

Making your own strawberry lemonade is so easy!

To whip up this delightful drink, you’ll need a bunch of lemons – fresh is best. Then, grab some ripe strawberries for that beautiful strawberry puree and, of course, a cup of sugar to sweeten everything to perfection.

Here’s the full ingredient list:

• 1/2 pound fresh strawberries, stems removed
• 1-1/2 cups white granulated sugar
• 4.5 cups water, divided
• 1-1/2 cups lemon juice – fresh squeezed is going to taste the best but I have used bottled lemon juice in a pinch.

How to Make Strawberry Lemonade

1. Start by juicing your lemons – you’ll want enough to make about 1-1/2 cups of lemon juice. (about 7-8 lemons, depending on the size)
2. Use a blender or food processor to puree the strawberries.
3. Combine your fresh lemon juice, strawberry puree, and sugar in a large pitcher, then stir in the water. That’s it!
4. For an extra smooth drink, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer to remove any bits.

Simple Syrup

For my strawberry lemonade, I start by making a simple syrup using granualted sugar.

You can opt to use a substitute for simple syrup by swapping the white sugar for a natural sugar, like honey.

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, stir together the sugar and 2 cups of the water.
2. Bring to a boil and stir until the sugar is dissolved.
3. Remove from the heat and allow to cool to room temperature before proceeding to the next step.
4. Strain the lemon juice thought a fine mesh sieve, if desired, into a 2 quart pitcher.
5. Stir in the cooled simple syrup (the sugar and water mixture) and the puréed strawberries. Refrigerate until cold.

When you’re ready to serve the lemonade, add in 2-1/2 cups of cold water and stir. Taste and add more water if it’s too sweet.

Strawberry Lemonade Garnishes

Dress up your homemade lemonade with slices of fresh fruit or basil leaves for an elegant touch.

I love adding fresh mint or even a few lemon slices for that added zing. They not only look pretty but also add a subtle flavor that complements the strawberry and lemon beautifully.

Some other ideas are a rosemary sprig or edible flowers.

Flavor Variations

• Substitute the lemon juice for lime juice and make strawberry limeade instead.
• Use blueberries instead for blueberry lemonade.
• Use raspberries instead to make raspberry lemonade.
• You can also experiment with different sweeteners like maple syrup or agave nectar to find your perfect match.
• Add your favorite alcohol for a refreshing summer cocktail.

Recipe Tips

• For the best taste, use ripe, in-season strawberries – they give the most incredible fresh strawberry taste.
• Use fresh squeezed lemon juice for amazing tartness.
• Be sure to use filtered water or purified water. Use sparkling water for a carbonated drink.
• Strain it through a fine mesh bag to catch all the strawberry seeds.
• Use frozen fruit as ice cubes.
• If you find your lemonade too tart or too sweet, simply adjust the amount of sugar or lemon juice to find your perfect balance.

How to Store Leftover Lemonade

Pour your lemonade into a covered pitcher and pop it in the fridge. It’ll stay delicious and refreshing for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before serving again.

Can I freeze fresh lemonade?

Absolutely! Pour your lemonade into a freezer bag (leaving some room for expansion) and freeze it flat. When you’re ready for some icy refreshment, let it thaw slightly, then enjoy as a slushy treat.

It also makes delicious popcicles!

Can I use a different sugar?

Yes, you can! While I typically use pure cane sugar for my recipe, feel free to experiment with alternatives like honey, maple syrup, or even stevia for a lower-calorie option.

Remember that each sweetener has its own unique flavor profile and sweetness level, so start with a little and adjust according to taste.

Is pink lemonade the same as strawberry lemonade?

No, pink lemonade and strawberry lemonade aren’t the same.

Pink lemonade gets its color from food dye or added fruit juices, like cranberry or raspberry.

Strawberry lemonade, on the other hand, is made by adding strawberry juice or strawberries to traditional lemonade, giving it a distinct strawberry flavor and a pinkish color.

Other Delicious Beverages to Try

• Morning Meditation Juice
• Strawberries & Cream Agua de Fresa
• Watermelon Lemonade Slushie
• Watermelon Lime Agua Fresca