Cranberry Lemonade is the ultimate refreshing beverage for those hot summer days! This drink pairs the tartness of cranberries with the zesty brightness of lemons, creating a perfectly balanced, sweet-tart flavor that will quench your thirst. Easy to prepare, it’s a delightful addition to any summer gathering or family barbecue.
Table of Contents
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ingredients for Cranberry Lemonade
- How to Make Cranberry Lemonade
- Tips for Making Cranberry Lemonade
- Make-Ahead Instructions
- Storing Leftovers
- Freezing
- Reheating
- Serving Suggestions
- FAQs
- Try these cranberry lemonade related recipes next!
- Cranberry Lemonade Summer Punch
- Cranberry Mojito
- Lemon Basil Sparkler
- Strawberry Lemonade
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfectly Refreshing. This Cranberry Lemonade is the ideal drink for hot summer days. The tartness of cranberries combined with the citrusy zing of lemons makes it exceptionally refreshing!
- Easy to Make. With just a handful of ingredients, this lemonade comes together in no time. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or simply relaxing at home, it’s simple to whip up!
- Customizable. Feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar, or even substitute honey or agave for a different twist!
- Impressive Color. The vibrant red of the cranberry juice makes this drink visually stunning, perfect for any gathering or party!
Ingredients for Cranberry Lemonade
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Cranberry Juice: Provides the tart flavor and beautiful color. Use 100% cranberry juice for the freshest taste.
- Fresh Lemons: Adds a zesty brightness to the drink. Freshly squeezed juice is always best!
- Water: Used to dilute the juice to your desired concentration. You can use sparkling water for a fizzy touch!
- Sugar: Sweetens the lemonade—adjust to your taste. Honey or agave syrup can be used as alternatives.
- Basil Leaves: Adds an herbal note for garnish. Optional but very refreshing!
How to Make Cranberry Lemonade
- In a pitcher, combine 4 cups of cold water and 2 cups of cranberry juice. Stir to mix.
- Juice 4 large lemons to make about 1 cup of lemon juice. Pour the lemon juice into the pitcher and stir well.
- Add sugar to taste, starting with 1 cup, and mix until dissolved.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Serve over ice in glasses, garnished with fresh lemon slices and basil leaves if desired.
Tips for Making Cranberry Lemonade
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemons will give your lemonade the best flavor—bottled lemon juice can’t compete!
- Adjust the Sweetness: Taste your lemonade before serving and adjust the sugar according to your preferences. Some may like it sweeter than others!
- Add Fresh Herbs: Infusing your lemonade with fresh mint or basil can elevate its flavor profile significantly!
Make-Ahead Instructions
- You can prepare cranberry lemonade a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator after mixing all the ingredients.
- Serve it chilled, and give it a good stir before pouring into glasses to ensure the flavors are combined nicely.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cranberry lemonade in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Give it a quick stir before serving to refresh the flavors.
Freezing Cranberry Lemonade
- Cranberry lemonade can be poured into ice cube trays and frozen. Use these cubes to chill drinks without watering them down.
- You can also make a frozen lemonade slush by blending the frozen lemonade with ice!
Reheating Cranberry Lemonade
- This beverage is best served cold; however, if you prefer hot cranberry lemonade, heat it gently on the stove.
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon to warm it up for a cozy twist!
Serving Suggestions
FAQs
Can I use frozen cranberries to make this lemonade?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries to make cranberry juice, which works perfectly for this recipe.
Is cranberry lemonade good for you?
Cranberry lemonade can provide some health benefits from the antioxidants in cranberries, but be mindful of the sugar content.
Can I make this recipe without sugar?
Absolutely! Consider using stevia, honey, or just less sugar to suit your dietary needs.
How long does cranberry lemonade last in the fridge?
It can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator when stored properly.
Can I add alcohol to cranberry lemonade?
Yes! Vodka or gin can be delightful additions for an adult version of this refreshing drink.
