Refreshing Raspberry Peach Lemonade

This sweet and tangy Raspberry Peach Lemonade combines the juicy sweetness of fresh peaches with the bright tartness of raspberries and lemon for a refreshing summer drink that's perfect for barbecues, picnics, or lazy afternoons by the pool.

I first created this recipe during a scorching summer heatwave when my herb garden was wilting and we needed something truly refreshing. The moment my family tasted it, this lemonade became our official summer drink, requested at every outdoor gathering.

Ingredients

• Fresh peaches: provide natural sweetness and a velvety texture look for fruits that yield slightly to gentle pressure for perfect ripeness
• Fresh raspberries: add a beautiful color and distinctive berry tanginess choose plump berries without moisture or mold
• Granulated sugar: creates the simple syrup foundation regular white sugar works perfectly here
• Fresh lemon juice: is absolutely essential bottled versions cannot match the bright flavor of freshly squeezed
• Cold water: dilutes the concentrated flavors to perfect drinking strength filtered water produces the cleanest taste
• Ice cubes: not only chill but also slightly dilute the drink as they melt creating the perfect consistency

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare fruit puree:

Process fresh peaches and raspberries with water until completely smooth. The key is pulsing the blender long enough to break down all fruit chunks which takes about 60 seconds at high speed. I recommend cutting peaches into 1inch chunks for easier blending.

Strain the mixture:

Press the blended fruit firmly through a fine mesh sieve, working in batches if needed. This crucial step removes all seeds and peach skin that would otherwise create an unpleasant texture. Be patient and press thoroughly as much of the fruit pulp should pass through as possible leaving only seeds and tough fibers behind.

Create simple syrup:

Combine sugar and water in a small saucepan over medium heat stirring frequently. Watch carefully as the mixture will become clear when sugar fully dissolves which typically takes 3 minutes. A properly made simple syrup should coat the back of a spoon without being thick like maple syrup.

Combine components:

In a large pitcher at least 2 quarts in size mix fresh lemon juice, cold water and ice first then add the peach raspberry puree and simple syrup. Stir gently but thoroughly using a long wooden spoon to ensure all ingredients are properly incorporated without creating too many bubbles.

Chill and serve:

Allow the lemonade to rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld and develop. When ready fill glasses with additional ice and pour lemonade over serving immediately with optional garnishes for maximum visual appeal.

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The raspberries are truly the magic ingredient in this recipe. While I've experimented with various berry combinations, nothing matches the perfect tartsweet balance and stunning color that raspberries provide. My daughter once compared the color to a summer sunset, and that description has stuck with our family ever since.

Make It Ahead

This lemonade actually benefits from being made in advance. Prepare it the night before your gathering and store covered in the refrigerator. The flavors will deepen and meld overnight, creating an even more pronounced fruit flavor profile. Just give it a good stir before serving as some natural separation may occur.

Creative Variations

For an adult version, add a splash of vodka, white rum, or prosecco to transform this into a delightful summer cocktail. When making the alcoholic version, I reduce the water slightly to maintain flavor intensity. For a nonalcoholic special occasion version, replace some of the plain water with sparkling water or ginger ale just before serving for a festive bubbly effect.

Serving Suggestions

This lemonade pairs beautifully with light summer fare like grilled chicken, fresh salads, or seafood dishes. I love serving it in mason jars with colorful paper straws for casual gatherings or in elegant pitchers with fresh fruit garnishes for more formal occasions. For an extra special presentation, freeze some raspberries and small peach chunks in ice cubes to add to each glass.

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Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make this lemonade ahead of time?

Yes! This raspberry peach lemonade actually tastes better when made a few hours ahead and refrigerated, allowing the flavors to fully develop. Store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ What can I substitute for fresh peaches if they're not in season?

If fresh peaches aren't available, you can use thawed frozen peaches instead. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious. In a pinch, you could also use 1 cup of peach nectar, though the freshness will be diminished.

→ Is there a way to make this lemonade less sweet?

Absolutely! You can adjust the sweetness by reducing the simple syrup to 1/3 cup sugar and 1/3 cup water. Alternatively, taste the final mixture and add more lemon juice if you prefer a more tart flavor profile.

→ Can I make an adult version of this drink?

This lemonade makes an excellent base for cocktails. Add a splash of vodka, white rum, or prosecco to transform it into a delightful summer cocktail. For a party, set up a station with the lemonade and various spirits so guests can customize their drinks.

→ How can I get a smoother texture if I don't have a fine sieve?

If you don't have a fine mesh sieve, you can strain the puree through cheesecloth or a clean kitchen towel. Another option is to blend the mixture for longer to break down the solids more thoroughly, though some texture will remain.

→ What's the best way to serve this for a large gathering?

For serving a crowd, prepare the lemonade in a large dispenser with a spigot. Add plenty of ice, floating fruit slices, and sprigs of mint for visual appeal. Keep extra chilled lemonade on hand to refill as needed, and consider freezing some of the mixture in ice cube trays to avoid dilution.