Ingredients (Makes 6–8 servings)
For the Raspberry Syrup:
- 1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries
- ½ cup sugar
- ½ cup water
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
For the Lemonade:
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4–6 lemons)
- 3 cups cold sparkling water (or club soda)
- 1–2 tablespoons honey or agave syrup (optional, for adjusting sweetness)
Optional Garnishes:
- Lemon slices
- Fresh raspberries
- Mint leaves
- Ice cubes
Instructions
1. Make the Raspberry Syrup:
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine raspberries, sugar, water, and lemon zest.
- Stir and simmer for 5–8 minutes until the raspberries break down and the mixture becomes syrupy.
- Remove from heat and strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve to remove seeds and pulp. Press down with a spoon to extract as much liquid as possible.
- Let the syrup cool completely.
2. Prepare the Lemonade Base:
- In a large pitcher, combine the freshly squeezed lemon juice with the raspberry syrup. Stir well.
- Taste and adjust the sweetness with honey or agave syrup if desired.
3. Add the Sparkle:
- Just before serving, pour in the sparkling water and stir gently to combine without flattening the bubbles.
4. Serve:
- Fill glasses with ice, pour in the sparkling raspberry lemonade, and garnish with lemon slices, raspberries, and mint leaves.
Tips & Variations
- Make ahead: Prepare the syrup and lemon juice mixture in advance and keep it refrigerated. Add sparkling water just before serving.
- Frozen option: Blend with ice to make a slushy version.
- Boozy version: Add vodka, gin, or prosecco for an adult twist.
- No sparkling water? Use still water for a classic raspberry lemonade, or try tonic water for a different edge.
Storage
- Store leftover lemonade in the fridge for up to 3 days, but keep the sparkling water separate if you want to maintain the fizz.
- Raspberry syrup can be stored in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 1 week or frozen for longer storage.
Perfect For:
- Summer BBQs and picnics
- Brunches and baby showers
- Kids’ birthday parties
- A non-alcoholic drink option at dinner gatherings