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Blue Raspberry Lemonade: The Ultimate Refreshing Summer Drink Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 141 reviews

This Blue Raspberry Lemonade is the ultimate refreshing summer drink, combining the tartness of fresh lemon juice with the sweet and tangy flavor of raspberry and blueberry syrups. Perfectly chilled and vibrant in color, it’s an easy-to-make beverage that brings bright, fruity flavors and a touch of sweetness to any warm day.

Ingredients

Scale

Berry Syrup

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries
  • 1/2 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
  • 1/4 teaspoon blue food coloring gel (optional, for a more vibrant color)
  • 1/4 teaspoon raspberry extract (optional, for enhanced flavor)
  • 1/8 teaspoon citric acid (optional, for a tart kick and preservation)

Lemonade

  • 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (from about 6–8 lemons)
  • 4–5 cups cold water (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste, depending on lemon tartness)
  • Lemon slices, for garnish
  • Fresh raspberries and blueberries, for garnish (optional)
  • Ice cubes

Instructions

  1. Combine Sugar and Water: In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and water. Place the saucepan over medium heat to start the syrup base.
  2. Add Berries: Add the fresh or frozen raspberries and blueberries to the saucepan to infuse the syrup with berry flavor.
  3. Simmer and Mash: Bring the mixture to a simmer while stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely. Gently mash the berries with the back of a spoon or potato masher to release their juices and enhance flavor.
  4. Continue Simmering: Lower the heat to low and let the syrup simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. Watch closely to prevent burning.
  5. Strain the Syrup: Remove from heat and strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth over a heatproof bowl, pressing the solids to extract maximum syrup.
  6. Add Optional Ingredients: Stir in blue food coloring gel, raspberry extract, and citric acid to the strained syrup if using, enhancing color and flavor.
  7. Cool and Store: Allow the syrup to cool completely. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks. The syrup will thicken further when cold.
  8. Squeeze the Lemons: Extract about 1 cup of fresh lemon juice from 6-8 lemons, removing any seeds.
  9. Make a Simple Syrup (Optional): For easier mixing, prepare a simple syrup by dissolving 1/2 cup sugar in 1/2 cup water over medium heat. Cool before use.
  10. Combine Lemon Juice, Sugar, and Water: In a large pitcher, mix the lemon juice with sugar or simple syrup and 4 cups of cold water. Stir until sugar is dissolved.
  11. Adjust to Taste: Taste and modify sweetness or tartness by adding more sugar/simple syrup, lemon juice, or water as desired.
  12. Add More Water (If Needed): Add the remaining water to achieve your preferred lemonade consistency.
  13. Chill: Refrigerate the lemonade for at least 30 minutes to meld flavors and chill thoroughly.
  14. Fill Glasses with Ice: Place ice cubes into serving glasses to keep the drink refreshingly cold.
  15. Add Blue Raspberry Syrup: Pour 2-3 tablespoons of the prepared blue raspberry syrup into each glass over the ice.
  16. Top with Lemonade: Fill glasses with chilled lemonade, leaving space at the top for stirring.
  17. Stir Gently: Gently mix the lemonade and syrup to combine flavors evenly.
  18. Garnish (Optional): Add lemon slices and fresh raspberries or blueberries for a decorative and fruity finishing touch.
  19. Serve Immediately: Enjoy this cool, fruity Blue Raspberry Lemonade right away for the best taste and refreshment.

Notes

  • Use fresh or frozen berries based on availability; frozen berries may require slightly longer simmering.
  • Optional ingredients like food coloring and raspberry extract enhance presentation and flavor but can be omitted for a natural look.
  • Adjust sweetness carefully since lemon tartness can vary; tasting frequently helps achieve balance.
  • Store the berry syrup in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks and use it in other drinks or desserts.
  • For a more intense lemon flavor, add extra lemon juice but increase sugar accordingly.
  • Chilling both the syrup and lemonade before serving ensures maximum refreshment.

Keywords: blue raspberry lemonade, summer drink, refreshing beverage, homemade lemonade, berry syrup, fruity lemonade, cold drink

Find it online: https://tastygenius.com/blue-raspberry-lemonade-the-ultimate-refreshing-summer-drink-recipe/