There’s nothing quite like a glass of homemade peach lemonade on a warm day. This refreshing beverage perfectly balances the bright tartness of fresh lemons with the sweet, summery flavor of ripe peaches. It’s a step above ordinary lemonade that will impress your guests and delight your family.
I developed this recipe after finding myself with an abundance of peaches from the farmers market. The natural sweetness of the fruit means you can use less sugar than traditional lemonade, making this a healthier option that doesn’t sacrifice any flavor. The beautiful peachy hue makes it as gorgeous to look at as it is delicious to drink!
Why You’ll Love This
- Uses fresh, seasonal ingredients for maximum flavor
- Easily adjustable sweetness to suit your taste preferences
- Can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
- Perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or just everyday refreshment
- Kids and adults alike will enjoy this naturally sweet beverage
Ingredients
- 8 cups homemade lemonade (or your favorite store-bought lemonade)
- 4-5 ripe peaches
- 1 tablespoon fresh mint leaves, plus extra for garnish
- Lemon slices for garnish
- Ice cubes for serving
Instructions
- Prepare homemade lemonade according to your recipe or use your favorite store-bought version. Set aside or chill until ready to use.
- Wash and slice the fresh peaches, removing the pits. Reserve about 1/4 of the peach slices for garnish in the pitcher and glasses.
- In a blender, combine the remaining peach slices, 1 cup of the prepared lemonade, and 1 tablespoon fresh mint leaves. Blend until smooth.
- For a smoother texture, pour the peach mixture through a fine strainer or sieve into a pitcher. For a thicker lemonade with more body, skip this step.
- Add the remaining lemonade to the pitcher with the peach puree and stir well to combine.
- Add the reserved peach slices and some lemon slices to the pitcher for presentation. Serve over ice in individual glasses, garnished with additional peach slices and fresh mint leaves.
Tips & Variations
- For a smoother texture, you can strain the lemonade twice to remove more pulp.
- Try using honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar for a different flavor profile.
- Add a splash of sparkling water just before serving for a fizzy version.
- For an adult beverage, add a shot of vodka or white rum to each glass.
- If peaches aren’t in season, you can use frozen peaches (thawed) with nearly the same results.
- For a stronger peach flavor, add a few drops of peach extract.
Serving Suggestions
This peach lemonade pairs beautifully with light summer meals like grilled chicken, fresh salads, or seafood dishes. It’s also the perfect accompaniment to afternoon tea sandwiches or brunch spreads.
For a special presentation, serve in mason jars with striped paper straws and a slice of peach on the rim of each glass. If you’re hosting a gathering, set up a lemonade bar with different fruit add-ins like berries or cucumber slices.
Notes
- Store any leftover lemonade in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- The lemonade will naturally separate as it sits – simply stir before serving.
- For the best flavor, use peaches that are fragrant and yield slightly to gentle pressure.
- If your peaches aren’t quite ripe, place them in a paper bag at room temperature for 1-2 days to speed up ripening.
FAQs
Can I make this with other fruits?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with nectarines, mangoes, or berries. Just adjust the sugar to account for the natural sweetness of your chosen fruit.
Is there a way to make this sugar-free?
Yes, you can substitute the sugar with a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste.
My lemonade is too tart. How can I fix it?
Simply add more simple syrup, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired sweetness level.
Can I make this in advance for a party?
Definitely! Prepare it up to 24 hours ahead, but hold off on adding ice until just before serving to prevent dilution.
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