Go Back

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.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course: Drinks & Smoothies, Spring Recipes, Summer Recipes
Ingredients Method

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

Method
 

  1. 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. 
  2. Pour the strawberry purée into a large pitcher. Strain if you prefer a smoother lemonade, or keep the pulp for added texture.
  3. Stir in the raw cane sugar until dissolved.
  4. Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice, remaining 5 cups water, and apple cider. Mix well.
  5. Taste and adjust sweetness as needed. If using, stir in a couple drops of Angostura bitters and vanilla essence.
  6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or serve immediately over ice.
  7. Garnish with lemon and strawberry slices before serving.
  8. For an adult version, add dark rum, vodka, or sparkling wine just before serving.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!