Lavender Lemonade

Lavender Lemonade

by

Lavender lemonade is a refreshing and elegant twist on a classic summer drink. Combining the floral notes of dried lavender with the bright, tangy flavor of fresh lemons, this beverage is as beautiful as it is delicious. It’s light, calming, and perfect for sunny days, baby showers, garden parties, or whenever you want a drink that’s a little bit different yet completely soothing.

Lavender Lemonade

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  1. Beautiful and Aromatic: The floral aroma of lavender adds a unique elegance to traditional lemonade.

  2. Naturally Refreshing: Perfect for cooling down on hot days with a flavor profile that’s both vibrant and calming.

  3. Visually Stunning: The soft lavender hue (with optional natural coloring) makes it a standout drink for special occasions.

  4. Customizable: Adjust the sweetness, tartness, and intensity of lavender to your taste.

Ingredients List

Here’s what you need to make homemade lavender lemonade from scratch:

For the Lavender Simple Syrup

  • 1 cup water

  • ¾ cup granulated sugar

  • 2 tablespoons dried culinary lavender buds

For the Lemonade

  • 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (from about 4–6 lemons)

  • 3 cups cold water (for dilution)

  • Ice cubes, for serving

Optional Add-ins

  • 1–2 drops of purple food coloring (for a lavender hue)

  • 1 tablespoon honey or agave (for added depth of sweetness)

  • Fresh lavender sprigs or lemon slices (for garnish)

  • Sparkling water (to make it fizzy)

Timing & Servings

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes

  • Cook Time: 10 minutes

  • Chill Time: 1 hour

  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

  • Servings: 5–6 cups

Step-by-Step Instructions for Lavender Lemonade

Step 1: Make the Lavender Syrup

  • In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup water and ¾ cup sugar.

  • Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.

  • Add 2 tablespoons of dried lavender and bring the mixture to a simmer.

  • Let it steep for 5–10 minutes, then remove from heat.

Step 2: Strain and Cool

  • Strain the syrup through a fine mesh sieve to remove lavender buds.

  • Let it cool completely at room temperature, or refrigerate for faster chilling.

Step 3: Juice the Lemons

  • While the syrup cools, juice fresh lemons until you have about 1 cup of juice.

  • Remove seeds but keep the pulp for a rustic feel (optional).

Step 4: Mix the Lemonade

  • In a large pitcher, combine the lemon juice, lavender syrup, and 3 cups cold water.

  • Stir well and taste. Adjust by adding more syrup, lemon juice, or water as needed.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

  • Chill the pitcher in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.

  • When ready to serve, pour over ice and garnish with lemon wheels or lavender sprigs.

Lavender Lemonade

Tips for the Best Lavender Lemonade

Choose Culinary-Grade Lavender

  • Make sure your dried lavender is food-safe and intended for consumption.

  • English lavender varieties (like Lavandula angustifolia) are best for flavor.

Don’t Over-Steep

  • Steeping too long can make the lavender flavor bitter or soapy.

  • 5–10 minutes is usually enough for subtle yet noticeable flavor.

Adjust Sweetness to Taste

  • Start with less syrup and add more as needed.

  • You can also mix syrup and honey for added depth.

Keep It Cold

  • Always chill your lemonade before serving.

  • Add frozen lemon slices or lavender-infused ice cubes to avoid dilution.

Variations to Try

Sparkling Lavender Lemonade

  • Use sparkling water instead of still water for a bubbly version.

  • Add just before serving to maintain the fizz.

Lavender Mint Lemonade

  • Add a handful of fresh mint leaves while making the syrup or as a garnish.

  • Pairs beautifully with the floral and citrus elements.

Honey Lavender Lemonade

  • Replace granulated sugar with honey for a more natural, warm sweetness.

  • Add the honey after removing the syrup from heat to preserve its flavor.

Berry Lavender Lemonade

  • Add pureed strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a fruity twist.

  • Blend the berries and strain before adding to the lemonade.

Lavender Lemonade Cocktail

  • Add a splash of vodka, gin, or elderflower liqueur for an adult-friendly version.

  • Great for bridal showers or evening summer events.

Serving Suggestions

For Special Occasions

  • Serve in mason jars or clear glasses with lavender sprigs and lemon wheels.

  • Perfect for weddings, brunches, and baby showers.

Picnic-Ready

  • Pour into thermoses or drink bottles for outdoor gatherings.

  • Keep chilled with ice packs and garnish just before serving.

With Food Pairings

  • Pairs well with light summer dishes like grilled chicken, cucumber sandwiches, or cheese platters.

  • Also complements desserts like lemon bars, vanilla cupcakes, or shortbread cookies.

Make It Vegan and Natural

Use Plant-Based Sweeteners

  • Agave syrup, maple syrup, and coconut sugar are all great vegan-friendly alternatives.

Go Dye-Free

  • Skip food coloring or use a natural option like a few drops of butterfly pea flower tea (blue) that turns lavender when mixed with lemon juice.

Organic Ingredients

  • Opt for organic lemons and lavender for the most natural and clean-tasting result.

Nutritional Overview (Approximate)

Per 8 oz serving:

  • Calories: 90

  • Carbohydrates: 24g

  • Sugar: 20g

  • Fat: 0g

  • Protein: 0g

  • Vitamin C: ~25% daily value

Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on sweeteners and ingredients used.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Make in Advance

  • Lavender syrup can be made up to 1 week in advance and stored in the fridge.

  • You can also mix the full lemonade and refrigerate up to 3 days before serving.

Freezing Options

  • Freeze in ice cube trays with edible flowers or lemon zest.

  • Use cubes in sparkling water or tea for a hint of flavor.

Batch for Events

  • Double or triple the recipe for large gatherings.

  • Store in a drink dispenser or punch bowl with ice and floating lemon slices.

FAQs

Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried?

Yes, but use twice the amount since fresh herbs are less concentrated than dried. Ensure it’s pesticide-free and intended for culinary use.

Can I make it sugar-free?

Yes. Use a sugar-free sweetener like stevia or monk fruit to reduce calories. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Freshly squeezed lemon juice gives the best flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch. Make sure it’s 100% juice with no added sweeteners.

How do I make it more purple?

Add a drop or two of food-safe purple coloring, or use natural options like blueberry juice or butterfly pea flower tea for a vibrant hue.

Is lavender safe to drink?

Yes, when using culinary lavender in appropriate amounts, it’s safe and widely used in beverages and desserts.

Conclusion

Lavender lemonade is more than just a drink—it’s a sensory experience. The floral essence of lavender mingles beautifully with the brightness of lemons, creating a beverage that feels luxurious and calming. Whether you’re entertaining guests, relaxing in the backyard, or just elevating your everyday lemonade game, this recipe offers a unique, delightful twist on tradition. Once you try homemade lavender lemonade, it just might become your new favorite summer refreshment.