Pink Lemonade Recipe
This recipe outlines the creation of a vibrant and refreshing pink lemonade. It combines a homemade simple syrup with fresh lemon juice and a touch of cranberry juice, diluted with water for a perfectly balanced sweet and tart beverage, ideal for any occasion.
Equipment
- 1 Saucepan For making simple syrup
- 1 Measuring Cups (Set) For accurate ingredient measurement
- 1 Pitcher For mixing and serving the lemonade
- 1 Stirring Spoon/Whisk To combine ingredients thoroughly
- 1 Lemon Juicer/Reamer Recommended for freshly squeezed lemon juice
Ingredients
Main
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup cranberry juice
- 1 cup lemon juice
Instructions
- Combine granulated sugar with an equal amount of water (e.g., 1 cup sugar to 1 cup water) in a small saucepan.
- Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved, creating a simple syrup. Do not boil vigorously.
- Remove the simple syrup from the heat and allow it to cool completely to room temperature.
- In a large pitcher, combine the cooled simple syrup, fresh lemon juice, and cranberry juice.
- Add 4-5 cups of cold water to the pitcher, or adjust to your preferred strength and sweetness.
- Stir all ingredients thoroughly to ensure everything is well combined.
- Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness by adding more water, lemon juice, or a tiny bit more sugar if needed (ensure additional sugar is dissolved).
- Chill the pink lemonade in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to ensure it is very cold.
- Serve over ice, garnished with fresh lemon slices, cranberries, or mint sprigs for an appealing presentation.
- Store any leftover pink lemonade in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Notes
For the best flavor, always use freshly squeezed lemon juice. The simple syrup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making quick assembly for future batches. Adjust the amount of water to achieve your desired sweetness and tartness balance. Consider using sparkling water for a fizzy alternative, or add fresh mint and lemon slices for an elevated presentation. Experiment with other berry juices like raspberry or cherry for different color and flavor profiles.