Description
This Sparkling Raspberry Lemonade is a refreshing and vibrant summer beverage that combines the tartness of fresh lemon juice with the natural sweetness of raspberries, balanced perfectly with sparkling water for a fizzy finish. It’s an easy-to-make drink ideal for cooling off on warm days or serving at gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
For Raspberry Syrup
- 1 cup fresh raspberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
For Lemonade
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4-6 lemons)
- 4 cups sparkling water (chilled)
- Ice cubes
For Garnish
- Fresh mint leaves
- Additional raspberries
- Lemon slices
Instructions
- Make Raspberry Syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup fresh raspberries and 1 cup granulated sugar. Over medium heat, stir gently until the sugar dissolves and the raspberries begin to break down, about 5-7 minutes.
- Strain Raspberry Mixture: Remove the saucepan from heat once the mixture is bubbling and raspberries are soft. Strain through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl or measuring cup, pressing gently to extract as much liquid as possible while leaving seeds behind.
- Cool Syrup: Allow the raspberry syrup to cool to room temperature. To speed cooling, place it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes.
- Prepare Lemon Juice: Roll lemons on the countertop to release juices. Cut in half and use a citrus juicer or reamer to extract juice, removing any seeds. Measure 1 cup of fresh lemon juice and set aside.
- Combine Syrup and Lemon Juice: In a large pitcher, mix the cooled raspberry syrup with the freshly squeezed lemon juice thoroughly.
- Add Sparkling Water: Gently pour 4 cups chilled sparkling water into the pitcher and stir carefully to combine, preserving the carbonation.
- Serve: Fill glasses with ice cubes, pour the sparkling raspberry lemonade over the ice about three-quarters full.
- Garnish and Enjoy: Garnish each glass with fresh raspberries, a lemon slice, and a sprig of mint. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For a less sweet version, reduce sugar to ¾ cup.
- Use chilled sparkling water to maintain fizziness.
- Straining the raspberry syrup ensures a smooth drink without seeds.
- Can be made a few hours ahead and refrigerated; add sparkling water just before serving.
- Substitute honey or agave nectar for sugar for a different sweetness profile.
