Strawberry Apple Cider Lemonade
A refreshing summertime drink made with fresh strawberries, lemon juice, and apple cider. With optional Caribbean touches like Angostura bitters and vanilla essence, this lemonade can be enjoyed as a family-friendly cooler or with a splash of rum for an adult twist.
Ingredients
- 3/4 lb strawberries washed, hulled, chopped
- 1 cup raw cane sugar
- 6 cups water divided
- 3 cups apple cider
- couple drops Angostura bitters optional
- 1 teaspoon vanilla essence optional
- lemon slices for garnish, optional
- strawberry slices for garnish, optional
- 1/2 cup dark rum, vodka, or sparkling wine optional
Instructions
- Prep your ingredients in advance. Wash, hull, and chop the strawberries. Juice the lemons. Place the chopped strawberries in a blender with 1 cup of water and blend until smooth. TIP! If the water is lukewarm, it will help dissolve the sugar easily.
- Pour the strawberry purée into a large pitcher. Strain if you prefer a smoother lemonade, or keep the pulp for added texture.
- Stir in the raw cane sugar until dissolved.
- Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice, remaining 5 cups water, and apple cider. Mix well.
- Taste and adjust sweetness as needed. If using, stir in a couple drops of Angostura bitters and vanilla essence.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or serve immediately over ice.
- Garnish with lemon and strawberry slices before serving.
- For an adult version, add dark rum, vodka, or sparkling wine just before serving.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!