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I discovered this magical Lavender Lemonade recipe years ago and it's become my signature summer drink. The sweet tartness of fresh lemons mixed with delicate lavender creates the most refreshing combination. The gorgeous purple color makes it extra special and my guests always ask for the recipe. It's become my go-to drink for garden parties and sunny afternoons.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
This isn't your ordinary lemonade. The lavender adds such a lovely sophisticated touch that transforms it into something truly special. I serve it at all my summer gatherings and it's perfect for baby showers or Sunday brunches. The beautiful color and unique taste always gets so many compliments.
What You'll Need
- Granulated Sugar: 1/2 cup to balance the lemon's tartness
- Honey: 2 tablespoons for natural sweetness
- Dried Culinary Lavender: 2 tablespoons make sure it's food grade
- Fresh Lemon Juice: 1 cup freshly squeezed is best
- Water: 4 cups split for syrup and mixing
- Food Coloring: Optional but adds such pretty color
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Making Your Lavender Lemonade
- Create Your Syrup
- Mix 2 cups water sugar honey and lavender in a pot. Let it come to a boil then simmer until sugar melts. Take it off the heat steep for 20 minutes and strain.
- Mix It Together
- Pour your lemon juice lavender syrup and remaining water into a pitcher. Give it a good stir.
- Add Some Color
- If you want that lovely purple color add a few drops of food coloring.
- Time to Chill
- Let it get nice and cold in the fridge. Serve over ice with lemon slices and lavender sprigs.
Fun Ways to Switch It Up
Sometimes I add vodka or gin for adult parties. My friends love when I make it with champagne for special celebrations. For summer parties I freeze some into ice cubes which look so pretty floating in the drinks and keep them from getting watered down.
Keeping Your Lemonade Fresh
Your lemonade will stay fresh in the fridge for about a week in a sealed pitcher. I often freeze extra into ice cubes to drop into other drinks later. It tastes amazing with desserts especially my lemon cake pops and summer berry coffee cake.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried?
Yes, you can use fresh lavender buds. You'll need to double the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. Make sure to use culinary lavender and not ornamental varieties.
- → How long does lavender lemonade last in the fridge?
The lemonade stays fresh for up to one week when stored in an airtight container. Make sure to keep it refrigerated and give it a good stir before serving.
- → Can I make this drink ahead of time?
Yes, this lemonade is great for making ahead. You can prepare it up to 24 hours before serving. Store it in the fridge and add ice just before serving.
- → How can I make this into an alcoholic drink?
You can easily turn this into a cocktail by adding vodka, gin, or champagne. Start with 1.5 ounces of alcohol per serving and adjust to taste.
- → What if the lavender flavor is too strong?
If the lavender taste is too intense, you can reduce the steeping time to 1 hour. You can also add more water or lemon juice to dilute the flavor.