Description
This Refreshing Lavender Lemonade recipe marries the tangy brightness of freshly squeezed lemons with the delicate floral notes of culinary lavender. Perfectly sweetened with a homemade lavender simple syrup, this lemonade offers a unique twist on a classic summer drink, ideal for cooling down on warm days or serving at gatherings.
Ingredients
For Lavender Simple Syrup
- ½ cup white granulated sugar
- ½ cup water
- 2 tbsp dried culinary lavender buds
For Lavender Lemonade
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (from about 5-6 medium lemons)
- 6 cups cold filtered water
- 7 tbsp lavender simple syrup, plus more or less to taste
- Ice
- Lemon slices, lavender sprigs, or fresh thyme for garnish
Instructions
- Make Lavender Simple Syrup: In a small to medium saucepan, combine ½ cup water, ½ cup white granulated sugar, and 2 tablespoons of dried culinary lavender buds. Cover and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally until the sugar has fully dissolved.
- Steep the Syrup: Once the mixture reaches a boil, remove the pan from heat. Let it steep covered for 15 minutes to infuse the lavender flavor into the syrup.
- Strain the Syrup: After steeping, strain the syrup through a fine mesh sieve into a clean glass jar, discarding the lavender buds. The syrup can be used immediately or stored in the refrigerator for up to one month.
- Prepare the Lemonade: In a large glass pitcher, combine 1 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice, 6 cups of cold filtered water, and 7 tablespoons of the prepared lavender simple syrup.
- Adjust Sweetness and Chill: Stir the lemonade mixture well and taste. Adjust sweetness by adding more lavender simple syrup if desired. Chill the lemonade in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours prior to serving.
- Serve: Pour the chilled lavender lemonade into glasses filled with ice. Garnish each glass with lemon slices, lavender sprigs, or fresh thyme to add a fragrant finish and appealing presentation.
Notes
- Use culinary grade lavender for best flavor and safety in cooking.
- The lavender simple syrup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to one month.
- Adjust the amount of lavender syrup to taste, depending on how floral and sweet you prefer your lemonade.
- This lemonade is best served chilled over ice.
- For an adult twist, consider adding a splash of gin or vodka.
- If you prefer a less sweet lemonade, reduce the sugar in the simple syrup or dilute with more water.
