
This peach lemonade is my answer to those sticky hot afternoons when you want something that feels both homemade and a little extra special. With just a few simple ingredients and no complicated equipment you end up with a pitcher of the most thirst-quenching drink I make every summer
I made this for a family picnic and my kids begged to take home leftovers now we whip up a batch nearly every weekend
Ingredients
- Water: helps everything blend and gives you that perfect light texture always use filtered water if possible for the cleanest flavor
- Peach puree: provides all the juicy sweetness look for ripe deeply fragrant peaches heavy for their size for best tasting puree
- Lemon juice: adds the crucial tang use fresh squeezed juice for the brightest citrus notes
- Honey: brings gentle sweetness and floral fragrance try to source local honey for extra depth
- Sugar: balances acidity and enhances both peach and lemon flavors I like organic cane sugar for this
- Ice: ensures the drink is frosty and refreshing use clean filtered ice for best results
- Sliced peaches: add bursts of real fruit in every glass choose perfectly ripe peaches without bruises
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the syrup:
- In a small saucepan bring two cups of water to a gentle boil over medium heat Once the water is boiling remove from heat and stir in honey with sugar Continue stirring until both dissolve completely This creates the sweet base for the lemonade
- Cool the syrup:
- Let the syrup cool down for several minutes at room temperature Cooling prevents the ice from melting too quickly later on
- Prepare the peach puree:
- Blend fresh or thawed peaches in a blender until smooth If you want a silkier feel strain the puree with a fine mesh sieve before using
- Mix the pitcher:
- Pour the cooled syrup into a large pitcher Add one cup of peach puree and half a cup of fresh lemon juice Stir thoroughly to bring everything together
- Add ice and sliced peaches:
- Drop in two cups of ice allowing the mixture to start chilling Slice half a cup of peaches into thin wedges and add them in for extra pops of flavor and texture Give everything a gentle stir
- Adjust and finish:
- Taste your lemonade and adjust sweetness with extra honey or sugar if needed Stir thoroughly again Serve right away poured over glasses with extra ice Garnish with peach slices

My favorite part is how the peach flavor shines and reminds me of picking peaches at a local orchard as a kid My family loves to snack on the sliced peaches at the bottom of their glasses
Storage tips
Store leftover peach lemonade in an airtight pitcher in the fridge It stays fresh and tasty for up to three days Stir well before pouring and always add fresh ice to each glass to keep it extra cold If you plan to make it ahead keep the fruit slices out until ready to serve so they stay firm and pretty
Ingredient substitutions
If peaches are out of season substitute with frozen peaches or even nectarines For a vegan version swap out honey for agave syrup Lemon juice can be swapped with lime in a pinch for a different citrus twist

Serving suggestions
Peach lemonade is the ultimate party drink Serve at summer cookouts paired with grilled chicken or fish It also makes a fun mixer for adult drinks just add a splash of vodka for a grownup treat Kids love it simply poured over plenty of ice
Cultural context
Peach lemonade brings together two classic American flavors and is a Southern staple at picnics community gatherings and celebrations It is all about making the most of summer produce and sharing something homemade and refreshing with friends and family
Recipe FAQs
- → How can I achieve a smoother texture?
Strain the peach puree before mixing to remove pulp and achieve a silky consistency in your drink.
- → Can I use frozen peaches?
Yes, thawed frozen peaches work well and maintain sweet, vibrant flavor, especially when fresh peaches aren't available.
- → How do I adjust sweetness?
Add more honey or sugar gradually, tasting as you go, until you reach your desired balance of sweetness and tang.
- → What garnishes pair well with this beverage?
Try fresh peach slices, lemon wedges, or mint leaves to add color, aroma, and a burst of freshness to each glass.
- → Is it best served immediately?
For maximum freshness and chill, serve right after mixing. Pour over extra ice for an even more refreshing sip.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the syrup and peach puree a few hours in advance, but combine all ingredients just before serving.