Description
3 ripe peaches, peeled and sliced
½ cup granulated sugar
4 cups water, divided
¾ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4-5 lemons)
Ice cubes, for serving
Peach slices and lemon wedges, for garnish
Fresh mint leaves (optional)
Directions:
Make the Peach Syrup: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the sliced peaches, sugar, and 1 cup of water. Stir and bring to a simmer. Cook for about 5
minutes, until the peaches soften and the sugar dissolves.
Blend & Strain: Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Blend the peach mixture until smooth, then strain through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any pulp.
Mix the Lemonade: In a large pitcher, combine the peach syrup, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and the remaining 3 cups of water. Stir well.
Serve & Enjoy: Fill glasses with ice cubes, pour in the peach lemonade, and garnish with peach slices, lemon wedges, and fresh mint leaves if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 5 minutes Total Time: 15 minutes Kcal: 120 per serving Servings: 6 servings
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect peach lemonade every time.
- Prepare the Peaches: Score an “X” on the bottom of each ripe peach. Blanch in boiling water for 30 seconds, then transfer to an ice bath. The skins will peel off easily. Slice the peeled peaches.
- Create the Syrup Base: In a medium saucepan, combine the sliced peaches, ½ cup granulated sugar, and 1 cup of water. Stir over medium heat until the mixture simmers and the peaches break down, about 5-7 minutes.
- Puree and Strain: Allow the peach mixture to cool for 10 minutes. Carefully transfer to a blender and puree until completely smooth. Pour the puree through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, pressing with a spoon to extract all the liquid. Discard the pulp.
- Assemble the Lemonade: Pour the strained peach syrup into a large pitcher. Add ¾ cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice and the remaining 3 cups of cold water. Stir vigorously until fully combined.
- Chill and Serve: For best flavor, refrigerate the lemonade for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld. Serve over ice with garnishes.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate your peach lemonade with these creative ideas:
- For an adult version, add a splash of vodka, bourbon, or sparkling rosé.
- Freeze peach slices or lemon rounds into ice cubes for a beautiful, flavor-enhancing touch.
- Serve in a sugar-rimmed glass: rub a lemon wedge around the rim and dip in a mix of sugar and a pinch of cinnamon.
- Turn it into a slushy by blending the finished lemonade with extra ice until smooth.
- Pair with grilled foods, summer salads, or spicy dishes for a refreshing contrast.
How-to Summary
In short: Cook peaches with sugar and water to make a syrup. Blend and strain the syrup. Mix it with fresh lemon juice and more water in a pitcher. Chill, serve over ice, and garnish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen or canned peaches?
Yes. Frozen peaches work well; thaw them first. Canned peaches in juice (not heavy syrup) can be used in a pinch—rinse them and reduce the added sugar.
How long does homemade peach lemonade last?
Store it in a sealed pitcher in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The fresh fruit flavors are best within 48 hours.
My lemonade is too tart/sweet. How can I fix it?
If too tart, stir in a simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water, dissolved) to taste. If too sweet, balance it with a little more fresh lemon juice or a splash of plain water.
Can I make this without a blender?
Yes. After simmering, mash the peaches thoroughly with a potato masher or fork. Strain the mixture, pressing hard to extract all the liquid. The texture will be slightly less smooth but just as tasty.
Is there a way to make a sugar-free version?
Absolutely. Substitute the granulated sugar with a sugar-free sweetener like erythritol or a liquid stevia blend designed for cooking. Follow the package instructions for equivalence.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Underripe Peaches: They lack sweetness and flavor. Always use ripe, fragrant peaches for the best syrup.
- Skipping the Straining Step: This results in a pulpy, thick drink. Straining ensures a smooth, refreshing texture.
- Adding Hot Syrup to the Pitcher: Let the syrup cool slightly before mixing. Adding it boiling hot can make the lemon juice taste bitter and is unsafe for some pitchers.
- Using Bottled Lemon Juice: The flavor is inferior. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is non-negotiable for a bright, vibrant taste.
Conclusion
This homemade peach lemonade is the essence of summer in a glass. With just a few simple steps and fresh ingredients, you can create a drink far superior to any store-bought mix. Its perfect balance of sweet peach and tangy lemon is endlessly customizable and sure to become a seasonal staple. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!
