There’s something about homemade strawberry lemonade that just feels like Summer, isn’t there? This recipe has become a go-to in our home, especially when life’s a little chaotic and we are looking for something simple and sweet to share.

Homemade Strawberry Lemonade

If you’re anything like me, you’re juggling schedules, trying to remember who needed to be where (and when), and hoping to squeeze in a little family time that doesn’t involve screens or drive-thru meals. That’s where this homemade strawberry lemonade swoops in like a summer superhero. It’s quick, easy, and feels kind of fancy.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, putting together a last-minute birthday party, or just trying to bribe your kids into helping with the laundry (no judgment), this strawberry lemonade is the kind of crowd-pleaser that never lets you down.

Homemade Strawberry Lemonade Recipe

Ingredients:

1 cup sugar (you can adjust this depending on how sweet you like it)
1 cup water (for the simple syrup)
1 cup lemon juice (about 4–6 lemons, freshly squeezed)
1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
4 cups cold water (to dilute)

Optional Add-ins:

Lemon slices (for garnish)
Whole strawberries (for garnish)
Ice cubes
Fresh mint leaves (optional, but oh-so-pretty)

How to Make Strawberry Lemonade

1. Make the Simple Syrup

This step is as easy as it sounds, and it’s the secret to a smooth, perfectly sweet lemonade.

In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup sugar and 1 cup water. Bring it to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar completely dissolves. This usually takes just a few minutes. Once everything is dissolved, take it off the heat and let it cool for about 30 minutes.

Tip: If you’re ever short on time, you can pop it in the fridge or freezer (just keep an eye on it!).

Sugar and water in a saucepan to make simple syrup

2. Blend the Strawberries

While your syrup is cooling, grab your strawberries. Hull them, halve them, and toss them into a blender with just a splash of water just enough to help them blend into a smooth puree.

You can strain the puree through a fine mesh sieve if you want a smoother texture, especially if your crew is picky about “bits.” Totally optional I’ve done it both ways and it’s always a hit.

3. Juice the Lemons

Now it’s time for the real star of the show: the lemons! You’ll need about 4–6 fresh lemons to get 1 cup of juice. Give them a good roll on the counter before cutting this helps get the juices flowing and makes them easier to squeeze.

Strain the juice if you’d like to get rid of pulp and seeds. (Because no one wants to sip and get surprised by a rogue seed, right?)

4. Mix It All Together

Once your syrup has cooled, you’re ready to assemble!

In a large pitcher, combine:

the cooled simple syrup
the lemon juice
the strawberry puree
4 cups of cold water

Give it a good stir. Then taste it. This is where the magic happens.

If it’s too sweet? Add a splash more lemon juice. Too tart? Add a little water or an extra spoonful of sugar. This recipe is super forgiving and very easy to tweak based on who you’re serving.

5. Serve It Up

When you’re happy with the flavor, toss in some ice cubes either straight into the pitcher or into individual glasses.

Garnish with lemon slices, whole strawberries, or even a few mint leaves if you’ve got them hanging around.

Why We Love This Recipe

1. It’s a Total Crowd-Pleaser

Kids love it. Adults love it. It’s sweet, tangy, and has that homemade taste that store-bought just can’t match.

2. It’s So Easy to Make Ahead

You can whip up the syrup and strawberry puree the night before, stash them in the fridge, and throw everything together right before your guests arrive. Boom instant hostess magic.

3. It’s a Healthier Alternative to Store-Bought

You control the sugar, and there’s no artificial junk just real fruit and fresh lemon juice. And honestly, you can get away with a little less sugar if your strawberries are super ripe!

Variations and Fun Twists

Want to shake things up a bit? Here are a few fun ideas:

Sparkling Strawberry Lemonade: Swap out some of the cold water with sparkling water for a fizzy twist.
Boozy Version (Adults Only!): Add a splash of vodka or gin for a grown-up version at your next BBQ.
Berry Mix-Up: Blend in a few raspberries or blueberries with the strawberries for a fun flavor spin.
Frozen Lemonade Slushies: Blend the finished lemonade with ice for a frozen treat that’s practically dessert.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This recipe is our go-to for summer get-togethers. Serve it in mason jars with cute paper straws if you’re feeling Pinterest-y, or just pour it into a big jug and plop it on the table. Either way, it gets the job done and disappears fast.

So grab those strawberries, squeeze those lemons, and enjoy the little things. You deserve it.

Check Out More Lemonade Recipes