Strawberry Lemonade Recipe with Real Fruit
Homemade lemonade is always something special, and when fresh strawberries are involved, it’s even better. A pitcher of strawberry lemonade made with real fruit is the perfect refreshing drink to brighten up any warm afternoon. The natural sweetness and vibrant color of fresh strawberries far exceed anything bottled drinks can offer. Each sip feels like a burst of sunshine, with the perfect balance of tart lemons and juicy strawberries. It’s incredibly easy to make, and once you taste it, you’ll never go back to store-bought lemonade.
This strawberry lemonade recipe is not just simple—it’s also a fun way to celebrate fresh, wholesome ingredients. The sweet strawberries mix perfectly with tangy lemon juice, creating a drink that’s both comforting and uplifting. It’s a fantastic choice for summer gatherings, afternoon treats, or simply keeping in the fridge whenever you need a refreshing pick-me-up. With just a few easy steps and some real fruits, you’ll have a beautiful drink that tastes even better.
Strawberry Lemonade Recipe with Real Fruit
6
servings15
minutes1
hour900
kcalFresh strawberries and tart lemons blend beautifully in this homemade strawberry lemonade recipe. Each glass is bursting with the bright, sweet flavor of real fruit, making it a perfect drink for warm afternoons or weekend gatherings. Blending fresh strawberries gives the lemonade a rich, vibrant color and a natural sweetness that feels both light and satisfying. A simple mix of lemon juice, sugar, and water ties everything together, creating a refreshing drink that tastes pure and homemade. Once you try it, homemade strawberry lemonade might just become your go-to refreshment.
Ingredients
1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 6 to 8 lemons)
3/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
5 cups cold water
Ice cubes, for serving
Extra strawberries and lemon slices, for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Wash the strawberries thoroughly, remove the stems, and cut them in halves. Place the strawberries in a blender and blend until completely smooth. If you prefer a smoother lemonade, you can strain the blended strawberries through a fine mesh sieve to remove the seeds, but this step is optional.
- In a large pitcher, combine the freshly squeezed lemon juice and granulated sugar. Stir well until the sugar fully dissolves into the lemon juice. It may take a minute or two of stirring for the mixture to become clear and smooth.
- Pour the blended strawberries into the pitcher with the lemon and sugar mixture. Stir gently to combine everything together into a vibrant pink base.
- Add the cold water into the pitcher and stir again until everything is well mixed. Taste the lemonade and adjust the sweetness if needed by adding a bit more sugar.
- Refrigerate the strawberry lemonade for at least one hour to chill and let the flavors blend. When ready to serve, fill glasses with ice cubes, pour the lemonade over the ice, and garnish with extra strawberries and lemon slices if desired. Enjoy fresh for the best flavor.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Use ripe, sweet strawberries for the best natural flavor and color. If the strawberries are very sweet, you may want to reduce the sugar slightly to keep the lemonade from becoming overly sweet.
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice makes a big difference in taste. Bottled lemon juice can give the lemonade a slightly bitter or artificial flavor, so always choose fresh lemons when possible.

Conclusion
Making strawberry lemonade from scratch is an easy and rewarding way to enjoy a refreshing, naturally sweet drink that’s perfect for any occasion. By using real strawberries and fresh lemons, you’re not only enhancing the flavor but also creating a healthier alternative to store-bought options. Whether you’re serving it at a summer party or simply enjoying it on a hot day, this strawberry lemonade recipe will quickly become a favorite. It’s an unforgettable, thirst-quenching treat that brings the best of fresh fruit straight to your glass.