Description
This homemade strawberry lemonade recipe is like taking a bite out of summer. Made with roasted strawberries for deeper flavor, homemade simple syrup, and freshly squeezed lemon juice, it’s an easy and healthy lemonade everyone will love!
Ingredients
For the Simple Syrup:
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup (180ml) water
For the Roasted Strawberries:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
For Lemonade Assembly & Garnish:
- 1 1/2 cups (360ml) fresh lemon juice (from about 6 large lemons)
- 6 cups (1.5 liters) cold water or sparkling water
- Ice cubes
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced (for garnish)
Instructions
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Make Simple Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine 3/4 cup water and 3/4 cup granulated sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is completely dissolved. Remove the syrup from the heat and let it cool completely to room temperature.
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Roast Strawberries:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the 2 cups of sliced strawberries onto the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle with the remaining 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Toss gently to coat.
- Arrange the strawberries in a single layer. Roast for 10-20 minutes, or until the strawberries are soft, bubbly, and slightly caramelized.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
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Prepare Roasted Strawberry Puree: Transfer the roasted strawberries (and any juices from the pan) to a bowl. Mash them with a fork for a slightly chunky texture, or transfer them to a food processor or blender and process/blend until smooth for a smoother lemonade. Let the puree cool completely.
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Combine Lemonade: In a large pitcher, combine the cooled simple syrup, the cooled roasted strawberry puree, and the freshly squeezed lemon juice. Stir well.
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Add Water/Sparkling Water: Pour in the 6 cups of cold water or sparkling water and stir well to combine.
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Serve: Add ice cubes and the 1 cup of fresh strawberry slices to the pitcher. Stir gently. Pour the strawberry lemonade into glasses over more ice cubes, if desired. Garnish individual glasses with extra strawberry slices. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Roasting Strawberries: Roasting deepens the strawberry flavor. Watch them carefully to prevent burning.
- Sweetness: Adjust the amount of sugar in the simple syrup or on the strawberries based on the sweetness of your berries and your preference.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice provides the best flavor.
- Water vs. Sparkling Water: Still water creates a classic lemonade. Sparkling water adds a fun fizziness.
- Make-Ahead: The simple syrup and roasted strawberry puree can be made up to 2-3 days in advance and stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Assemble the lemonade just before serving or a few hours ahead. Add sparkling water just before serving if using.
- Storage: Store leftover lemonade in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.