Pin it
This summertime peach lemonade is a crowd-pleaser I reach for every year as soon as fresh peaches hit the farmers market. You get the gentle sweetness of tree-ripened fruit balancing the zippy brightness of real lemon juice—just the thing to cool you off on sticky afternoons or serve at backyard parties for all ages.
When my kids bring friends home from the pool this is the first thing they ask for. It is a tradition to make a double batch for our family picnics and everyone always wants seconds.
Ingredients
- Ripe peaches: Provide juicy natural sweetness and a lovely golden color so look for fruit that is fragrant and just soft to the touch
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens every sip while letting the fruit and citrus shine
- Fresh lemon juice: Adds refreshing tartness Squeeze your own for bright flavor and avoid the bottled kind
- Cold water: Helps blend everything together and chills the lemonade for perfect sipping Start with less and add more to reach your preferred intensity
- Ice cubes: Make each glass frosty cold—fill generously so the lemonade stays perfectly chilled
- Peach slices and lemon wedges: Make pretty garnishes that hint at the flavors inside Pick the best looking fruit for topping each glass
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Peach Syrup:
- In a small saucepan combine your peeled chopped peaches sugar and one cup of water. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Let it cook gently for about seven minutes and stir occasionally. You want the peaches softened and the sugar dissolved completely. The kitchen will start to smell amazing.
- Blend and Strain:
- Let the syrup cool off slightly then pour it into a blender and process until it is perfectly smooth. Taste a bit for sweetness or tartness. If you want your lemonade silky and clear pour it through a fine mesh sieve into a pitcher pressing out every drop.
- Mix with Lemon Juice and Water:
- Add your freshly squeezed lemon juice to the pitcher. Pour in the cold water slowly and stir well. Start with about three cups then add more until you reach the perfect tart-sweet balance for your taste.
- Chill and Garnish:
- Refrigerate the lemonade until it’s icy cold. Serve over plenty of ice cubes and top with vibrant peach slices or lemon wedges. Make every glass look inviting.
Pin it
I always look forward to peach season because my grandmother would make pitchers of fruit lemonade for our family gatherings. Using her hand juicer makes this taste like childhood for me every single time.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors often develop and mellow overnight making day two even better. If the lemonade separates just give it a gentle stir before pouring. Always keep plenty of ice on hand for serving.
Ingredient Substitutions
No fresh peaches Use frozen sliced peaches without syrup or juice and thaw before starting. If you need to substitute sugar you can use honey or agave though the flavor will shift a bit. Meyer lemons can replace regular lemons for a less tangy taste.
Serving Suggestions
This peach lemonade is perfect for picnics pool parties or any warm day. Try pairing it with grilled chicken sandwiches or summer salads. I sometimes freeze some in ice cube trays and use those cubes in drinks for an extra peachy punch.
Pin it
Enjoy this refreshing drink as a perfect way to make summer moments unforgettable!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I make the peach flavor stand out?
Use ripe, sweet peaches and simmer them with sugar before blending. Straining ensures a more intense, smooth peach flavor in your lemonade.
- → Can I adjust the sweetness?
Absolutely. After mixing, taste your lemonade and add more sugar or water to reach your ideal balance of sweet and tart.
- → Should I strain the blended mixture?
Straining removes pulp for a smoother texture and clearer appearance, but keeping it unstrained will give a more rustic, fiber-rich drink.
- → Can I use frozen peaches?
Frozen peaches work well and can be substituted if fresh ones aren’t available. Thaw them first for easier blending.
- → How should this beverage be served?
Serve chilled over ice, garnished with peach slices or lemon wedges for extra color and flavor.