A classic summer drink gets a floral twist in this Lavender Lemonade. Sweet, citrusy, and delicately floral, it starts with a simple lavender syrup, bright freshly squeezed lemon juice, and cold water or ice. For a sparkling version, use club soda; for an adult version, add vodka. This refreshing beverage is perfect for warm afternoons and easy to make ahead.
CULINARY LAVENDER VS REGULAR LAVENDER
When making Lavender Lemonade or any recipe that uses lavender, choose culinary-grade lavender. Culinary lavender is grown and processed for food use, so it’s safe to consume and free from harsh chemicals. It also tends to be more fragrant and sweeter than ornamental varieties, making it ideal for drinks, desserts, and other edible uses.
HOW TO MAKE LAVENDER SIMPLE SYRUP
The first step is preparing the lavender simple syrup. It’s just like a classic simple syrup, with the added step of steeping dried lavender to infuse the water. Follow these steps for a fragrant, balanced syrup:
1. Steep the lavender: Bring water to a boil, pour it over the dried lavender, and steep for 10–15 minutes to extract flavor.
2. Strain and combine with sugar: Strain the lavender from the water through a fine mesh sieve. Pour the infused water into a saucepan and add white sugar.
3. Boil briefly: Heat the mixture until it comes to a boil, then let it simmer for about 3 minutes to dissolve and slightly reduce.
4. Cool and store: Remove from heat and cool completely in the refrigerator before using. Store the syrup in the fridge for up to one week, or freeze in an airtight container for up to six months.
How to Make Lavender Lemonade
With the lavender simple syrup ready, making the lemonade takes only a few minutes. Squeeze fresh lemons into a large pitcher — a handheld reamer or lemon squeezer helps speed this up. Add the cooled lavender syrup and cold water (or club soda for a fizzy version). Stir well and taste, adjusting sweetness or dilution to your preference. Serve over ice and garnish with lemon slices or a sprig of lavender if desired.
Get the Recipe:
Lavender Lemonade
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Ingredients
Lavender Simple Syrup
- 4 tbsp Dried Lavender
- 2 cup Boiling Water
- 2 cup Sugar
Lavender Lemonade
- Lavender Simple Syrup (above)
- 2 cups Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice
- 10-12 cups Cold Water or Club Soda
- (Optional) Purple Food Coloring
Instructions
Lavender Simple Syrup
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Steep the dried lavender in 2 cups of boiling water for 15 minutes. Strain out the lavender and transfer the infused water to a medium saucepan. Add the sugar, bring to a boil over medium-high heat, and let it boil for about 3 minutes. Remove from heat and cool completely before using.
Lavender Lemonade
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Combine the lavender simple syrup, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and cold water or club soda in a large pitcher. Stir well, taste, and adjust sweetness or dilution as needed. Serve over ice and enjoy.
Related Recipes
Looking for more summery drinks? Try the suggestions below.
LAVENDER BLUEBERRY GIN SPARKLER. A floral, fruity cocktail featuring blueberry, gin, lavender, and bubbly club soda.
PASSION FRUIT AND GIN FIZZ COCKTAIL. Tropical and tart, a bright summer cocktail with passion fruit and gin.
HONEY ROSEMARY ICED TEA. A refreshing iced tea sweetened with a honey-rosemary simple syrup for a Southern-inspired twist.
