CDKitchen, it's what's cooking online!
  • contact the CDKitchen helpdesk

Kids Favorite Purple Lemonade

  • print recipe
  • save recipe
  • add photo
  • add review
  • #106520

This vibrant, blueberry-infused drink is sure to be a hit with the kids for the color and the sweet flavor.


serves/makes:
  
ready in:
  1-2 hrs
Rating: 5/5

1 review

ingredients

1 cup granulated sugar
6 cups water
1 tablespoon finely grated lemon zest
1 pint fresh blueberries, picked over
1 cup fresh-squeezed lemon juice
ice
sprigs of fresh mint for garnish

directions

Combine the sugar, water, and lemon zest in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Cook, stirring frequently, until the sugar has dissolved.

Remove the pan from the heat and let cool. Transfer the mixture to a large pitcher and chill for 1-2 hours.

Combine the blueberries and lemon juice in a blender. Puree until smooth. Add the blueberry puree to the pitcher and mix well. Pour the blueberry lemonade through a fine mesh sieve if there are a lot of skins from the blueberries.

Serve the purple lemonade over ice in tall glasses. Garnish with mint, if desired.

recipe tips


For a clearer lemonade, strain the blueberry puree through a fine mesh sieve to remove the skins and any pulp. This will result in a smoother drink.

To boost the lemon flavor, try adding a little more lemon zest to the sugar-water mixture. Just be sure to avoid the white pith of the lemon, as it can add bitterness.

If you're serving this at a party or special occasion, try adding edible flowers or lemon slices to the pitcher or glasses for an extra touch.

For an effervescent twist, mix in some sparkling water or club soda to the lemonade just before serving.

Try adding other berries, such as raspberries or strawberries, to create different flavored and colored lemonades.

common recipe questions


Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries instead of fresh for this recipe. There's no need to thaw them before blending, as they will easily puree while frozen. Using frozen blueberries might even enhance the color and chill the lemonade faster.

How can I make this lemonade sweeter or less sweet?

To adjust the sweetness of the purple lemonade, you can alter the amount of sugar to your taste. If you find the lemonade too sweet, reduce the amount of sugar or add more lemon juice to increase the tartness. Conversely, if it's not sweet enough, you can add more sugar or a simple syrup (equal parts water and sugar heated until the sugar dissolves, then cooled) to the lemonade after the initial sugar has been dissolved and the mixture has cooled.

Is there a way to make this lemonade with less sugar?

For a lower-sugar version of this lemonade, you can substitute the granulated sugar with a sugar alternative that suits your dietary needs or preferences. Honey, agave nectar, or stevia are possible alternatives, but keep in mind that the flavor profile might change slightly. Start with a smaller amount and adjust according to taste, as these sweeteners vary in sweetness compared to sugar.

Can this lemonade be made in advance?

Yes, this purple lemonade can be made in advance. Prepare the lemonade as instructed and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-5 days. Stir well before serving, as the ingredients may settle at the bottom over time. Add ice and garnish with fresh mint right before serving to maintain the best flavor and presentation.


nutrition data

126 calories, 0 grams fat, 34 grams carbohydrates, 0 grams protein per serving. This recipe is low in sodium. This recipe is low in fat.
Show full nutritional data (including Weight Watcher's Points ®, cholesterol, sodium, vitamins, and diabetic exchanges)


share on facebook share on twitter share on pinterest


reviews & comments

  1. kimball REVIEW:

    I added a little more sugar to the blueberries because mine weren't very flavorful unfortunately but this lemonade was really good. Love the color of it too!

About CDKitchen

Online since 1995, CDKitchen has grown into a large collection of delicious recipes created by home cooks and professional chefs from around the world. We are all about tasty treats, good eats, and fun food. Join our community of 200K+ members - browse for a recipe, submit your own, add a review, or upload a recipe photo.