When the sun is blazing and you need something cool, sweet, and thirst-quenching, nothing beats a glass of homemade peach lemonade. It’s a perfect fusion of sweet summer peaches and the tart brightness of fresh lemons. This drink isn’t just refreshing—it’s sunshine in a glass. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, lounging on your porch, or preparing a family picnic, this peach lemonade recipe will become your go-to summer staple.
Why You’ll Love This Peach Lemonade
Our recipe is simple, natural, and bursting with flavor. It combines ripe, juicy peaches, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and just the right amount of sweetness to balance it all. Served over ice, it’s a vibrant drink that both adults and kids will enjoy. Want to impress your guests or elevate your summer drink game? This is the recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Peach Syrup:
- 4 large ripe peaches, peeled, pitted, and chopped
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
For the Lemonade:
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 5–6 lemons)
- 4 cups cold water
- Peach syrup (from above)
- Ice, for serving
- Optional: fresh mint leaves or peach slices for garnish
How to Make Peach Lemonade from Scratch
1. Make the Peach Syrup
In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped peaches, sugar, and water. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat. Reduce heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peaches are soft and the sugar has fully dissolved.
Remove from heat. Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then blend until smooth using an immersion blender or a countertop blender. Strain through a fine mesh sieve to remove pulp for a smoother syrup. Set aside to cool completely.
2. Prepare the Lemonade Base
Juice your lemons until you have about 1 cup of lemon juice. Make sure to strain out seeds and excess pulp.
In a large pitcher, combine the lemon juice, peach syrup, and cold water. Stir well until fully blended.
Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness by adding more sugar or lemon juice as needed.
3. Serve and Enjoy
Fill glasses with ice and pour in the peach lemonade. Garnish with fresh peach slices, mint leaves, or even a lemon wheel for a decorative touch.
Tips for the Best Peach Lemonade
Use Ripe Peaches
The more ripe and juicy your peaches, the sweeter and more flavorful your lemonade will be. Look for fruit that gives slightly when pressed and has a sweet fragrance.
Chill Everything Before Serving
For the ultimate refreshment, chill the peach syrup and lemonade in the fridge for at least an hour before serving.
Make It Sparkling
For a fizzy version, replace half of the cold water with sparkling water or club soda right before serving.
Add Herbal Flair
Infuse your syrup with a sprig of fresh thyme, basil, or lavender while simmering for a subtle aromatic twist.
Variations to Try
Peach Raspberry Lemonade
Add ½ cup of fresh or frozen raspberries to the peach syrup mixture before blending. It adds a beautiful pink hue and berry flavor.
Peach Iced Tea Lemonade
Mix your peach syrup with brewed iced tea instead of plain water for a Southern-style peach Arnold Palmer.
Adult Peach Lemonade Cocktail
Add a splash of sparkling white grape juice, ginger ale, or even a shot of vodka or bourbon-free whiskey alternative to turn this into a vibrant cocktail.
How to Store Peach Lemonade
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in a covered pitcher for up to 5 days. Stir before serving.
- Freeze: Make peach lemonade ice cubes to keep drinks cool without diluting them.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare peach syrup in advance and refrigerate for up to a week.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned or frozen peaches?
Yes! If using canned peaches, make sure they’re packed in juice (not syrup), and drain them first. If using frozen, thaw them completely before cooking.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Absolutely. Start with ½ cup sugar and taste as you go. You can also use honey or maple syrup as natural sweeteners.
How do I keep it from getting watered down?
Use frozen peach slices or peach lemonade ice cubes in place of regular ice cubes.
The Perfect Summer Drink
This peach lemonade is the drink of the season. Bursting with natural sweetness and citrusy brightness, it’s everything a summer drink should be. Serve it at cookouts, baby showers, family dinners, or simply keep a pitcher in the fridge for everyday sipping.
Fresh, flavorful, and easy to make, this peach lemonade will become a new household favorite.
