Description
This refreshing Peach Lemonade recipe combines the juicy sweetness of fresh peaches with the tart brightness of lemons, enhanced by a hint of vanilla. Slow-cooked and carefully mashed peaches infuse the lemonade with natural fruity flavors, making it a perfect homemade summer drink to enjoy chilled with ice and garnishes like fresh peach slices, lemon slices, and mint.
Ingredients
Fruit Base
- 3 cups fresh peaches (about 6 peaches)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon zest (about 2 lemons)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Sweetener & Liquids
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 cups cold water (divided)
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 4-5 lemons)
Optional for Serving
- Ice
- Lemon slices
- Fresh peach slices
- Fresh mint
Instructions
- Combine ingredients: In a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat, add peaches, lemon zest, vanilla extract, sugar, and 2 cups of water. Heat gently without bringing to a boil.
- Cook peaches: Let the peaches cook until they become soft and crushable, about 15-25 minutes, depending on their ripeness.
- Mash peaches: Use a masher or wooden spoon to crush the peaches into a pulpy mixture.
- Cool the mixture: Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the peach mixture to cool completely by placing it in the refrigerator.
- Infuse flavors: Let the mixture chill thoroughly, so the flavors meld well before straining.
- Strain solids: Strain the mixture to remove peach pulp and solids, discarding them or saving for another use.
- Add lemon juice and water: Stir in the fresh lemon juice and remaining cold water. Add ice if desired.
- Serve and garnish: Pour the peach lemonade into glasses and garnish with lemon slices, fresh peach slices, and fresh mint to enhance the presentation and flavor.
Notes
- Do not allow the mixture to boil while cooking peaches to preserve fresh flavors.
- Use ripe peaches for best sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Letting the mixture chill before straining maximizes flavor infusion.
- Save the strained peach pulp to add to smoothies, yogurt, or baking recipes to avoid waste.
- Adjust sugar according to peach sweetness or personal preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
