Summer is the season for refreshing beverages, and there's nothing quite like a glass of homemade lemonade to cool you down on a hot day. But why settle for plain lemonade when you can elevate it with the soothing essence of lavender and a burst of mint? This Lavender Lemonade is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a visual delight. With a hint of floral sweetness and a refreshing touch, it’s the perfect drink to impress at any summer gathering or to enjoy on a leisurely afternoon.
Ingredients:
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup water (for making lavender syrup)
2 tablespoons dried lavender buds (Oak Lore Farm Lavender Buds)
1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4-6 lemons)
4 cups cold water (for mixing the lemonade)
Fresh mint leaves (a handful, plus extra for garnish)
Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Make the Lavender Syrup
Start by creating a sweet, aromatic lavender syrup. In a small saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and 1 cup of water. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves completely. Add the dried lavender buds from Oak Lore Farm and bring the mixture to a simmer. Remove from heat and let it steep for about 10 minutes. Once the syrup has steeped, strain it through a fine mesh sieve into a heatproof container to remove the lavender buds. Allow the syrup to cool completely.
2. Prepare the Lemonade
In a large pitcher, mix together the freshly squeezed lemon juice and the cooled lavender syrup. Stir well to combine. Add 4 cups of cold water to the pitcher and mix thoroughly. Taste your lemonade and adjust the sweetness or tartness if needed by adding more syrup or lemon juice to suit your preference.
3. Infuse with Mint
For a refreshing twist, lightly bruise a handful of mint leaves with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release their flavor. Add these mint leaves to your pitcher and stir gently. Cover the pitcher and refrigerate overnight. This step is crucial as it allows the mint to infuse into the lemonade, enhancing the overall flavor with a subtle, aromatic freshness.
4. Serve and Enjoy
When you're ready to serve, fill glasses with ice cubes. Pour the infused lavender lemonade over the ice and garnish with additional mint leaves and lemon slices if desired. The result is a beautifully refreshing drink that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Flavor Harmony: The floral notes of lavender combined with the bright, citrusy lemon and the cool, crisp mint create a well-balanced and refreshing beverage.
Make-Ahead Convenience: Infusing overnight means you can prepare this lemonade in advance, making it perfect for entertaining or enjoying a leisurely day without the last-minute prep.
Customizable: Adjust the sweetness or tartness according to your taste, and experiment with the amount of mint to find your perfect balance.
This Lavender Lemonade is more than just a drink; it's a summer experience in a glass. Whether you’re hosting a garden party, enjoying a picnic, or simply unwinding after a long day, this recipe will add a touch of elegance and refreshment to your day. So go ahead, make a batch, and sip on this delightful concoction—you deserve it!
Where to Buy: You can purchase our premium dried lavender buds on our product page. Our lavender is hand-harvested and grown chemical-free on our farm, ensuring the highest quality and freshest flavor for your recipes.
Comments