Cool off this summer with our refreshing and easy homemade Berry Lemonade recipe. Made with fresh berries and zesty lemon, it’s the perfect drink to beat the heat!
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There’s nothing like a glass of berry lemonade to make you feel like summer is here to stay. This simple recipe combines fresh, juicy berries with the tartness of lemon, creating the perfect balance of sweet and sour in every sip. It’s a refreshing twist on the classic lemonade we all grew up with, but with a homemade touch that takes it to the next level. Whether serving it at a BBQ, sipping it poolside, or just enjoying a quiet afternoon on the porch, this berry lemonade will quickly become your go-to summer drink. If you’re looking for a refreshing “adult” beverage, also check out my Raspberry Lemonade Cocktail! It’s lemonade mixed with Malibu Rum for a Tropical coconut addition!
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Ingredient Notes
Below is a brief overview of each ingredient needed to make this homemade Lemonade. To see printable recipe card with exact amounts and directions, scroll to the bottom of this post or click the “jump to recipe” button at the top.
- Sugar– any white granulated sugar works for this recipe. You can also use simple syrup or cane syrup if preferred. This adds the perfect sweetness to the tangy, tart lemon juice.
- Berries– fresh or frozen berries work great. Feel free to use a mixed berries blend or keep it to your favorites. We use strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries since we almost always have them on hand during summer months.
- Lemon Juice– freshly squeezed lemon juice from fresh lemons is best as it adds the most flavor. If you don’t have access to fresh lemon juice, you can substitute bottled juice in it’s place. Meyer lemons is my favorite if you can find them.
- Water– filtered cold water is great. This will be used to not only boil down the berries and sugar mixture, but also reduce the lemon intensity when everything is added together. TIP: for a bubbly version, use sparkling water in this recipe.
How to make Berry Lemonade
Cook berries, sugar, and water. Add the sugar, berries, and 1 cup water to sauce pan. Heat over medium heat. Simmer for 10 minutes before removing from heat.
Strain mixture. Pour mixture throughout a fine mesh strainer and allow the berry puree to cool.
Combine in large pitcher. Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice, cooled berry syrup, and remaining sugar/water.
Stir using a wooden spoon. Chill and enjoy! Place pitcher in fridge for at least 2 hours. Serve in glasses with ice cubes and garnish with lemon slices. TIP: this can be made in advance and simply stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Variations
- Berries– use any one flavor of berries, or a variety of your favorite berries. The sky is the limit when it comes to which ones you use. Raspberries, blueberries, blackberries, strawberries, etc.
- Herbs– fresh mint or fresh Basil pair perfectly with this homemade lemonade. You can place a handful in the bottom of your pitcher, or you can add a leaf to each glass just before serving.
- Honey– if you’re looking for a different kind of sweetness, you can decrease some of the sugar and use natural, raw honey in its place.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover lemonade in the pitcher for up to 5 days if refrigerated. Be sure to give the pitcher a quick stir before serving as the mixture can settle once sitting.
More Refreshing Recipes to try
Strawberry Lemon Shortbread Bars– the perfect balance of tart lemon and sweet strawberries, with a shortbread crust and creamy filling. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion!
Lemon Quick Bread– perfect for breakfast or as a snack. Made with fresh lemon juice and zest, this quick bread is bursting with flavor and will leave you craving more.
Chocolate Raspberry Milkshake– made with creamy ice-cream, fresh raspberries, and a touch of chocolate syrup. Easy to whip up and the perfect way to satisfy any sweet tooth craving!
Southern Peach Bread– using only ingredients you may already have on hand! Packed with flavor and no yeast required, this will be a new favorite!
Peach Cobbler Dump Cake– an easy and tasty dessert that can be made in minutes. With only 5 simple ingredients needed, you can enjoy a warm and gooey treat that will satisfy your sweet tooth.
This easy Berry Lemonade is sweet, simple, and gluten free, so everyone can enjoy it. It’s got that classic summer vibe with a fruity twist—perfect for BBQ’s, lazy afternoons, hot summer days, or anytime you need a little refresh. Go on, make a batch… and don’t forget to pin it for later or print the recipe so it’s ready whenever the craving hits!
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Easy Homemade Berry Lemonade Recipe
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups sugar divided
- 8 oz berries fresh or frozen, any variety
- 2 cups lemon juice freshly squeezed is best
- 4 cups water divided
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, add 1 cup of sugar, 1 cup water, and berries.
- Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until mixture begins to simmer. Simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and drain through a fine mesh strainer.
- Allow berry syrup to cool.
- In a large pitcher, add 2 cups fresh lemon juice, berry syrup, remaining sugar, and water. Stir well.
- Place pitcher in refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours.
- Serve over ice and garnish with fresh lemons, herbs, or berries if desired.
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