She Strengthens

Summer’s Sweetest Sipper: Peach Melba Cooler

As the warm weather sets in, our taste buds start craving refreshing drinks that evoke the sweetness of the season. Inspired by the classic peach Melba dessert, we’ve created a light and fizzy drink that’s perfect for sipping in the backyard while soaking up the sun.

The Perfect Pairing

Peaches and raspberries are a match made in heaven, and when combined with lemon thyme, they create a flavor trifecta that’s simply irresistible. This Peach Melba Cooler is a delightful twist on the classic dessert, transformed into a refreshing drink that’s sure to quench your thirst on a hot summer day.

What You’ll Need

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1 medium, ripe peach (about 6 ounces)
• 1/2 pint fresh raspberries (about 6 ounces)
• 1 bunch fresh lemon thyme (about 30 sprigs), rinsed and woody ends trimmed
• 1 liter cold club soda
• Ice

Getting Started

Begin by creating a simple syrup by simmering the sugar and water in a small saucepan over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar has dissolved. Let the syrup cool to room temperature before transferring it to a small container with a tight-fitting lid.

Infusing the Flavor

Halve, pit, and cut the peach into 1/8-inch-thick slices, then add them to the syrup and stir to combine. Seal the container and refrigerate until the peach flavor infuses the syrup, at least 4 hours or up to 3 days.

Assembling the Drink

When you’re ready to serve, pour the syrup through a fine-mesh strainer set over a medium bowl, discarding the peach slices. Add half of the raspberries and half of the thyme sprigs to the bowl, setting the rest aside for garnishes. Use a potato masher to briefly smash the raspberries, releasing their juices.

The Finishing Touches

Set a fine-mesh strainer over a large pitcher and pour in the raspberry mixture. Lightly press on the solids with a rubber spatula, then discard the contents of the strainer. Add the club soda and some ice to the pitcher, stirring gently with a long spoon until combined.

Serve and Enjoy

Pour the Peach Melba Cooler into ice-filled collins glasses and garnish each drink with a sprig of thyme and a few fresh raspberries. As you take your first sip, the sweetness of the peaches, the tartness of the raspberries, and the subtle hint of lemon thyme will transport you to a sunny summer afternoon. Cheers!