Description
This Creamy Lemonade Summer Drink is the ultimate refreshing recipe perfect for hot days. It combines tangy lemon juice with a sweet simple syrup, finished with a creamy texture from heavy cream or coconut cream, creating a smooth, delicious beverage that’s easy to make and perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
Scale
Simple Syrup and Lemon Base
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 4-6 lemons)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
Drink Mix
- 4 cups cold water
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Garnish
- Lemon slices
- Fresh mint sprigs (optional)
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- Combine Lemon Juice and Sugar: In a medium saucepan, combine fresh lemon juice and granulated sugar to start the simple syrup base.
- Heat Gently: Place the saucepan over medium-low heat to slowly dissolve the sugar into the lemon juice without boiling.
- Stir Constantly: Continuously stir the mixture for 5–7 minutes until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture is clear.
- Simmer Briefly: Let the mixture simmer gently for 1 minute to ensure all sugar granules dissolve and flavors meld.
- Cool Completely: Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the syrup to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate to speed cooling.
- Combine Syrup and Water: In a large pitcher, pour the cooled lemon-sugar syrup and add 4 cups of cold water.
- Stir Well: Mix thoroughly and taste; adjust sweetness or tartness by adding more water or syrup if needed.
- Add the Cream: Gently pour in the heavy cream or coconut cream for a luscious, creamy texture.
- Incorporate the Vanilla: Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to enhance the flavors.
- Whisk Vigorously: Whisk the mixture until the cream is fully incorporated, creating a smooth, creamy lemonade. Avoid over-whisking to prevent separation.
- Chill Thoroughly: Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally 2-3 hours, to let the flavors meld and serve iced.
- Stir Before Serving: Give the lemonade a good stir before pouring to ensure consistency.
- Prepare Glasses: Fill serving glasses with ice cubes to keep the drink chilled.
- Pour and Garnish: Pour the creamy lemonade over the ice and garnish each glass with lemon slices and fresh mint sprigs if desired.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the refreshing creamy lemonade immediately and enjoy the perfect summer cooler.
Notes
- For a vegan option, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
- Adjust sweetness by adding more or less sugar depending on the tartness of your lemons.
- Do not over-whisk the cream to avoid curdling or separation.
- Refrigerate the lemonade thoroughly to enhance flavor and serve chilled.
- Garnishing with fresh mint adds a pleasant aroma and a pop of color.
