Description
This Refreshing Pineapple Lemonade is a bright and zesty beverage perfect for hot days. Combining fresh lemon juice with pure pineapple juice, it delivers a tropical twist on classic lemonade. Sweetened with homemade simple syrup and diluted with cold water, this drink is easy to prepare and serves 8, making it ideal for gatherings or a refreshing treat anytime.
Ingredients
Juices
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 6-7 lemons)
- 4 cups pure pineapple juice (fresh or cold-pressed without added ingredients, e.g., Lakehouse brand)
Simple Syrup
- 1 cup near-boiling water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
Additional
- 4 cups very cold water
- Ice, for serving
- Lemon slices and pineapple slices, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Juice the Lemons: In a large glass measuring cup, juice about 6-7 lemons to yield 1 cup of fresh lemon juice. Strain the juice to remove pulp and seeds for a smooth drink.
- Combine Juices: Pour the strained lemon juice into a serving pitcher that can hold at least 12 cups. Add 4 cups of pure pineapple juice, then set the mixture aside.
- Make Simple Syrup: In another large glass measuring cup, pour 1 cup of near-boiling water. Stir in 1 cup granulated sugar until fully dissolved and the syrup is clear.
- Mix Simple Syrup with Juices: Stir the simple syrup into the pitcher containing the lemon and pineapple juices, combining well.
- Add Cold Water: Gradually stir in 4 cups of very cold water, adding it a little at a time. Taste as you go, adjusting to your preferred sweetness. Keep in mind the lemonade will be diluted slightly when served over ice, so slightly sweeter is recommended.
- Serve: Pour the pineapple lemonade over ice. Garnish with slices of lemon and pineapple if desired for an attractive presentation and extra flavor.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best bright flavor; bottled lemon juice will not have the same freshness.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less simple syrup or cold water according to taste.
- For a sparkling version, substitute some or all of the cold water with sparkling water.
- This lemonade is best served chilled and consumed within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.
- Make sure the pitcher used can hold all liquids plus ice comfortably to prevent overflow.
