Pin it
This refreshing coconut lavender lemonade brings together the bright acidity of lemons with the soothing floral notes of lavender and the tropical essence of coconut water. It's become my go-to summer beverage for garden parties and quiet afternoons alike, offering a sophisticated twist on traditional lemonade that both adults and children appreciate.
I first created this recipe when hosting a baby shower during a July heatwave. The mom-to-be couldn't have alcohol, but I wanted something more elevated than standard lemonade. The guests loved it so much that I now receive requests for it at every summer gathering.
Ingredients
- Fresh lemon juice: Provides the perfect tartness and brightness. Always use freshly squeezed for the cleanest flavor, never bottled.
- Infused coconut water: Adds subtle tropical notes and natural electrolytes. Look for pure coconut water without added sugars.
- Dried lavender: Brings a delicate floral aroma. Culinary-grade lavender ensures you won't get a soapy taste.
- Honey or agave syrup: Sweetens naturally. Local honey adds subtle complexity while agave offers a more neutral sweetness.
- Sparkling water: Creates effervescence. Choose a brand with fine bubbles for elegant mouthfeel.
- Ice cubes: Chill without diluting too quickly. Consider making lemon or lavender ice cubes for an extra touch.
- Lemon slices and lavender sprigs: Aren't just pretty garnishes. They release additional aroma as you sip.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare Lavender Infusion:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the coconut water and dried lavender. Heat over low heat, never allowing it to boil, as this would create bitterness. Let it warm gently for exactly 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to release the essential oils from the lavender. The mixture should become fragrant but not too intense. Remove from heat and allow it to continue steeping for another 10 minutes to extract maximum flavor.
- Strain the Mixture:
- Once the infusion has cooled slightly, pour it through a fine mesh strainer to remove all lavender flowers. Press gently on the lavender with the back of a spoon to extract all the flavored liquid. Return the strained coconut water to a clean container. This clear infusion should have a subtle purple hue and delicate floral aroma.
- Mix the Mocktail:
- In a large glass pitcher, combine the lavender-infused coconut water with the fresh lemon juice. Pour in the honey or agave syrup, starting with slightly less than the recipe suggests. Stir vigorously with a long-handled spoon for about 30 seconds until the sweetener fully dissolves into the liquid. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
- Add Sparkle:
- Just before serving, slowly pour the sparkling water into the pitcher at an angle to preserve as much carbonation as possible. Gently stir once or twice with a long spoon to integrate without losing bubbles. The mixture should immediately brighten and become slightly cloudy with tiny bubbles rising to the surface.
- Serve:
- Fill glasses halfway with ice cubes, then pour the completed lemonade over the ice. Garnish each glass with a thin slice of lemon positioned on the rim and a small sprig of fresh lavender. The lavender will release additional aroma as you sip, enhancing the experience of this refreshing beverage.
Pin it
Lavender is truly the star ingredient in this recipe. I grow French lavender in my garden specifically for culinary uses, and the difference between fresh garden lavender and store-bought is remarkable. My children now recognize when the lavender is ready for harvesting and eagerly volunteer to help make this special lemonade.
Make-Ahead Options
The base of this lemonade can be prepared up to three days in advance. Simply complete all steps except adding the sparkling water. Store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The lavender flavor will actually deepen slightly over time, creating an even more aromatic drink. When ready to serve, add the sparkling water and ice. This make-ahead approach is particularly helpful when entertaining large groups.
Flavor Variations
This recipe welcomes creative adaptations based on what you have available. Replace lavender with fresh basil or mint for an herbal variation. Add muddled berries like strawberries or blueberries for a fruity twist. For special occasions, freeze edible flowers in ice cubes for a stunning presentation. My personal favorite variation is adding a few sprigs of rosemary alongside the lavender during the infusion process for an intriguing herbal complexity.
Health Benefits
Beyond being delicious, this lemonade offers several wellness advantages. The coconut water provides potassium and natural electrolytes, making it excellent for hydration. Lemons deliver vitamin C and antioxidants. Lavender has been shown to promote relaxation and ease digestive discomfort. Using natural sweeteners like honey or agave keeps the glycemic impact lower than conventional lemonade. This makes it a truly guilt-free refreshment you can enjoy regularly throughout the summer months.
Pin it
A refreshing drink bursting with flavor, perfect for any occasion!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use lavender essential oil instead of dried lavender?
It's not recommended to substitute lavender essential oil as most aren't food-grade and can be too potent. Stick with culinary-grade dried lavender or fresh lavender flowers for the best flavor and safety.
- → How long will this lemonade keep in the refrigerator?
Without the sparkling water added, the base mixture will keep for 3-4 days in a sealed container in the refrigerator. Add the sparkling water just before serving to maintain the fizz.
- → Can I make this drink ahead for a party?
Yes! Prepare the lavender coconut and lemon mixture up to 24 hours ahead. Store refrigerated in a sealed pitcher, then add the sparkling water and ice just before serving to maintain freshness and effervescence.
- → Is there a substitute for coconut water?
Regular filtered water can be substituted for coconut water, though you'll lose the subtle tropical flavor. For a different twist, try using a light herbal tea like chamomile as your base.
- → What can I pair this drink with?
This lemonade pairs beautifully with light summer fare like grilled fish, salads, and Mediterranean dishes. It also complements desserts with berry or citrus notes, and makes an excellent accompaniment to brunch.
- → Can I turn this into an alcoholic cocktail?
Absolutely! Add 1.5 oz of gin or vodka per serving for a sophisticated cocktail. White rum also works well with the coconut notes. For a champagne cocktail, replace some of the sparkling water with prosecco or champagne.