This refreshing frozen lemonade is a summertime treat that’s simple to whip up! Just mix fresh lemons, sugar, and ice for a drink that will make your taste buds dance.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemons give the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, bottled lemon juice can work, but fresh is always tastier. Aim for at least 4 lemons, but you can adjust based on how tart or sweet you like it.
Granulated Sugar: Sugar sweetens and balances the tartness of lemons. If you’re looking for a healthier option, use honey or agave syrup instead. Just remember to adjust the quantity, as they are sweeter than sugar.
Cold Water: Cold water dilutes the lemon juice and sugar mixture, creating a refreshing drink. You can replace some of the water with sparkling water for a fizzy twist!
Ice Cubes: Essential for that frozen texture! To make blending easier, try using larger ice cubes or crushing them slightly before adding them to the blender.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure a Smooth Frozen Lemonade?
Blending is key for creating that smooth, frosty lemonade. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- First, add the lemon-sugar-water mixture to the blender.
- Then, carefully place the ice cubes on top. This helps with even blending.
- Blend on high for about 30 seconds, or until the ice is crushed completely and the mixture is creamy.
- If it seems too thick, you can add a bit more cold water and blend again. Just be sure to taste before serving!
Make sure your blender is strong enough to handle ice. If it struggles, you might need to blend in batches!
How to Make Refreshing Frozen Lemonade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4-6 lemons)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 cups cold water
- 4 cups ice cubes
- Lemon slices, for garnish
- Optional: fresh mint for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and blend. You’ll have a delicious, refreshing frozen lemonade ready to enjoy in no time—perfect for a sunny day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Lemon Juice and Sugar:
Start by squeezing enough lemons to get 1 cup of fresh lemon juice. In a large pitcher, combine the freshly squeezed lemon juice with 1 cup of granulated sugar. Stir well until the sugar completely dissolves into the lemon juice. This will create a sweet and tangy base for your lemonade.
2. Add Water:
Next, pour in 4 cups of cold water into the lemon-sugar mixture. Stir everything together until well mixed. This will thin out the lemonade and make it more refreshing.
3. Blend with Ice:
Now it’s time to blend! Pour the lemonade mixture into a blender, and add in 4 cups of ice cubes. Blend on high speed until the ice is finely crushed and the mixture is smooth and frothy. This process should only take a minute or two.
4. Taste and Adjust:
Give your frozen lemonade a taste. If you want it sweeter, feel free to add a little more sugar or add in some extra lemon juice if you prefer a tangier flavor. Blend again for a few seconds to mix in any added ingredients.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Pour your refreshing frozen lemonade into chilled glasses. To make it extra special, garnish each glass with a slice of lemon on the rim and a sprig of fresh mint, if you like. Enjoy your cold drink on a warm day – it’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Bottled Lemon Juice Instead of Freshly Squeezed?
Yes, you can use bottled lemon juice, but the flavor might not be as fresh or vibrant. If you go this route, opt for a high-quality brand without added preservatives. You will need about the same amount, around 1 cup, but feel free to adjust according to your taste preference.
How Can I Make This Recipe Lower in Sugar?
If you’re looking to reduce sugar, try substituting half of the granulated sugar with a natural sweetener like agave nectar or honey. Start with a smaller amount, as these substitutes can vary in sweetness. Taste and adjust as needed.
Can I Freeze Leftover Frozen Lemonade?
Absolutely! If you have any leftovers, pour them into an airtight container, leaving some space at the top for expansion, and freeze. To serve again, simply thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours before blending again to refresh the texture.
What Other Flavors Can I Add to My Frozen Lemonade?
Feel free to get creative! You can add fresh fruits like strawberries, raspberries, or peaches while blending for a fruity twist. Another option is to mix in herbs such as basil or lavender for an aromatic flavor infusion. Enjoy experimenting!