Homemade Raspberry Lemonade
A vibrant, ruby-red summer refresher that balances sweet raspberry puree with tart fresh lemon juice. Ready in 15 minutes with just 4 core ingredients, this drink delivers pure, natural flavor without artificial additives. Perfect for entertaining or everyday sipping.
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries: The star of our recipe providing gorgeous color and natural sweetness. (If using frozen, fully thaw before using)
- ¾ cup sugar or natural sweetener: Balances the tartness of the lemons and raspberries. Adjust to taste.
- 1.5 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice about 8-10 lemons: For the brightest, freshest flavor. Nothing beats hand-squeezed!
- 4-5 cups filtered water: The foundation of our lemonade allowing you to control the concentration.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract optional: Adds a subtle depth and complexity to the flavor profile.
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt optional: Enhances all flavors and balances sweetness.
- Fresh mint leaves optional: For garnish and a refreshing aroma.
Instructions
- Add the raspberries, sugar (or sweetener), and half of the lemon juice to your blender and blend on high for 30-60 seconds until completely smooth and the sugar is fully dissolved.
- Place a fine mesh strainer over a large pitcher and pour the raspberry mixture into it. Gently press the mixture against the strainer with a wooden spoon or spatula until you've extracted all the liquid and left the seeds behind.
- Add the remaining lemon juice to the strained raspberry liquid, then pour in 4 cups of cold water and stir well. If using, add the vanilla extract and sea salt, then taste and adjust sweetness or concentration by adding more sweetener or water as needed.
- Pour the lemonade over ice in glasses and garnish with fresh raspberries, lemon slices, and mint sprigs if desired.
- Store any leftover lemonade covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, stirring well before serving.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!