Description
This Creamy Lemonade Summer Drink is the ultimate refreshing beverage perfect for hot days. It combines the bright tang of fresh lemon juice with the smooth richness of cream, balanced by a simple syrup and a hint of vanilla. Easy to prepare and wonderfully creamy, it’s a delightful twist on traditional lemonade that’s sure to cool you down and satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Lemon Syrup
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 6 lemons)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
For the Lemonade
- 5 cups cold water
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Serving
- Ice cubes
- Lemon slices (for garnish, optional)
- Fresh mint sprigs (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Combine Lemon Juice and Sugar: In a medium saucepan, mix the fresh lemon juice and granulated sugar thoroughly.
- Heat Gently: Place the saucepan over medium-low heat to start dissolving the sugar.
- Stir Constantly: Continuously stir for 5-7 minutes until the sugar is completely dissolved into the lemon juice, creating a smooth syrup.
- Simmer Briefly: Let the mixture simmer gently for 1 minute to slightly thicken the syrup and blend the flavors.
- Cool Completely: Remove the pan from heat and allow the lemon syrup to cool to room temperature. Refrigerate to speed up the cooling process.
- Combine Syrup and Water: In a large pitcher, pour the cooled lemon syrup and add 5 cups of cold water.
- Stir Well: Mix the syrup and water together thoroughly. Taste and adjust by adding more water or syrup for desired sweetness and tartness.
- Add the Cream: Gently pour in the heavy cream or coconut cream to add richness.
- Incorporate the Vanilla: Add the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor profile.
- Whisk Vigorously: Whisk the mixture well until the cream is fully incorporated and the lemonade turns creamy. Be careful not to over-whisk to avoid separation.
- Chill Thoroughly: Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably 2 to 3 hours, to let flavors meld and serve chilled.
- Stir Before Serving: Give the lemonade a good stir just before serving to mix any settled cream.
- Prepare Glasses: Fill glasses with ice cubes to keep the drink refreshingly cold.
- Pour and Garnish: Pour the creamy lemonade over the ice and garnish each glass with a lemon slice and a sprig of fresh mint if desired.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the creamy lemonade right away and enjoy the perfect summer refreshment.
Notes
- You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free, vegan-friendly option.
- Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of sugar or syrup according to your taste.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half or reduce the cream quantity.
- Mint garnish adds a fresh aroma and complements the lemonade flavor beautifully.
- This drink is best served chilled and consumed within 2 days for optimal freshness.
