Summer’s Sweetest Sipper: Raspberry-Infused Pink Lemonade
When it comes to refreshing summer drinks, pink lemonade is a classic favorite. But what makes it truly special is the addition of natural flavor and color. That’s why we’ve created a recipe that uses fresh raspberries to infuse a sweet and tangy simple syrup, adding a pop of color to this classic drink.
The Perfect Pink Hue
We’ve opted for an all-natural approach, ditching artificial coloring in favor of fresh raspberries. The result is a beautiful rosy hue that complements the bright, citrusy flavor of lemonade. And the best part? You can make the raspberry syrup up to a week in advance, giving you plenty of time to plan your summer gatherings.
A Simple yet Impressive Recipe
This easy-to-make recipe yields about 8 cups (2 quarts) of pink lemonade, perfect for serving at backyard barbecues or summer soirees. With just 35 minutes of active time and about an hour of cooling time, you can have this refreshing drink ready in no time.
Raspberry Syrup
To make the raspberry syrup, combine 3/4 cup of fresh raspberries, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 2/3 cup of water in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar has dissolved. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the raspberries start to fall apart.
Strain and Cool
Meanwhile, place a fine-mesh strainer over a medium heatproof bowl. Pour the raspberry mixture through the strainer and gently push on the solids to release all of the liquid. Discard the solids and let the syrup cool slightly, about 15 minutes. Refrigerate uncovered until cold, about 30 minutes more.
Lemonade Time
To make the lemonade, place the cooled raspberry syrup in a pitcher. Add 6 cups of cold water and 1 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice. Stir to combine and refrigerate until ready to serve. To serve, pour over ice and garnish with lemon slices or fresh raspberries, if desired.
Tips and Variations
- For a more intense pink color, add a few more raspberries to the syrup.
- Experiment with different types of citrus, like lime or orange, for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
- Serve pink lemonade at your next summer gathering and watch it become the talk of the party!
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