Pin
This fun peach lemonade is bright juicy and the ultimate way to cool down when summer hits its peak. Whether you are hosting a BBQ or lounging on the patio this homemade lemonade brings everyone together. The blend of fresh peaches and tart lemon gets an extra boost from making your own peach syrup so every sip is packed with real fruit flavor.
The first time I made this peach lemonade my neighbor stopped by for a “quick visit” and ended up staying for three glasses. That sweet tangy flavor seems to have that effect on everyone.
Ingredients
- Peaches: choose ripe fragrant peaches for the best juicy sweetness and full flavor. If peaches are not in season frozen works perfectly
- Water: use filtered water for the clearest taste or chill sparkling water for extra fizz
- Sugar: select your sweetener based on preference. Classic white sugar for clean flavor brown sugar for a rich note honey for a floral note or a zero calorie option for a lighter drink
- Lemon juice: squeeze it fresh for the brightest tartness. Roll your lemons first and pick heavy thin skinned fruit for the juiciest results
- Lemon slices and peach slices: boost the visual appeal and infusion of fresh fruit notes
- Mint leaves: garnish for a refreshing herbal lift especially if you have it growing at home
- Ice cubes: chill each glass and keep your drinks crisp until the last sip
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare Peach Syrup:
- Combine chopped peaches sugar and water in a medium saucepan
- Bring the mixture to a boil:
- over medium high heat and stir often to help dissolve the sugar and soften the fruit
- Reduce Peach Syrup:
- Lower the heat and let simmer gently for five to ten minutes until the peaches break down and become soft and fragrant
- Cool and Strain Syrup:
- Take off the heat and allow to cool to room temperature about thirty minutes. Strain through a fine mesh sieve pressing gently to extract maximum peach flavor
- Juice Lemons:
- Roll each lemon on the counter to release the juices slice in half and squeeze out the juice. Zest first if you want extra garnish for later
- Mix Lemonade Base:
- In a large pitcher combine the strained peach syrup fresh lemon juice and your choice of water. Stir very thoroughly to blend all ingredients
- Taste and Adjust:
- Sip a spoonful and adjust syrup lemon or water to balance sweetness and tartness to your liking
- Serve and Garnish:
- Pour over plenty of ice in individual glasses. Add sliced peaches and lemons plus a few mint sprigs for visual and aromatic appeal
Pin
I always get excited about making this recipe when the first peaches appear at my farm stand. Biting into a sun warmed peach and then turning it into something my kids beg for all summer is pure kitchen happiness.
Storage Tips
Store leftover peach lemonade in a sealed bottle or jar in the refrigerator for five to seven days. For best flavor add any fresh mint slices or fruit only when serving not for storage. You can prepare the peach syrup in advance and freeze it for up to two months pulled out for instant mixing whenever a craving strikes.
Ingredient Substitutions
No peaches Use nectarines apricots or even frozen mango for a twist. Erythritol or stevia work for sugar free batches. Out of lemons Bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch but fresh always tastes best. For a deeper flavor try half brown sugar in the syrup.
Serving Suggestions
Serve over crushed ice for a frosty treat. For sparkling lemonade use soda water or try coconut water for a lighter tropical variation. Add a splash of vodka gin or white rum for an adult party version. Decant into mason jars for picnics and pack with a chilly pack to keep cool all day.
A Little Peach Lemonade History
Lemonade is a classic in American summer culture but adding peaches turns it into a southern specialty. Fresh fruit lemonades have long been a staple at state fairs family reunions and porch gatherings across the country. Peach and lemon are a natural combo tying in the best of both tart and sweet.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use frozen peaches if fresh are unavailable?
Yes, frozen peaches work well. Thaw them before simmering to achieve a smooth syrup and vibrant flavor.
- → How do I adjust the sweetness or tartness?
Modify the sugar amount in the syrup or add more lemon juice for tartness. Taste and adjust as needed for balance.
- → What are some serving suggestions?
Serve over ice with peach or lemon slices. Try sparkling water for fizz, or add a splash of alcohol for an adult twist.
- → Can this peach lemonade be made ahead of time?
Yes, it keeps well in the fridge for up to a week. Add fresh fruit or herbs just before serving for best flavor.
- → Are there ways to use leftover peach syrup?
Use extra syrup to sweeten teas, cocktails, or as a drizzle for breakfast items like pancakes or yogurt.
- → How can I make this drink sugar-free?
Swap the sugar for your favorite granulated sweetener such as erythritol or stevia in the peach syrup step.