5 from 15 votes
Watermelon Lemonade
Watermelon Lemonade blends fresh watermelon puree with tart lemon juice and a homemade lemon-infused simple syrup, creating a refreshing, balanced drink. The syrup adds sweetness without overpowering the fresh fruit flavors, while the cold water dilutes for the perfect light texture. This beverage is ideal for hot days or casual gatherings, topped with optional lemon, watermelon, and mint garnishes to elevate the presentation and freshness.
Prep Time
15 mins
Cook Time
5 mins
Additional Time
2 hrs
Servings:
8
servings
Course:
Drinks
Cuisine:
American
Ingredients
For the Simple Syrup:
- 1 and 1/2 cups (298g) granulated sugar
- 1 and 1/2 cups (340ml) water
- 2 " lemon peel strips
For the Watermelon Lemonade:
- 8 cups watermelon cubed, seedless
- 3 cups (681ml) water cold
- 1 and 3/4 cups (171ml) lemon juice freshly squeezed
- lemon garnish, optional, slices
- watermelon garnish, optional, wedges
- mint garnish, optional, fresh, sprigs
Instructions
For the Simple Syrup:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and lemon peel. Bring to a simmer over medium-heat and cook, whisking occasionally, until the sugar is completely dissolved, about 5 minutes.
- Remove pan from heat and set aside to cool for at least 1 hour before use. Once cool, strain through a fine-mesh strainer and discard lemon peel.
- Use at once, or cover and store in the refrigerator until needed, up to 2 weeks.
Cup of Yum
For the Watermelon Lemonade:
- Place the watermelon in a blender or food processor and pulse until well pureed. Pour through a fine mesh strainer and into a large bowl.
- In a large pitcher, combine the simple syrup, watermelon juice, water, and lemon juice. Stir well to combine and chill for at least 2 hours before serving.
- When ready to serve, fill tall glasses halfway with ice. Pour the watermelon lemonade on top of the ice, and garnish each glass with a tiny wedge of watermelon, a lemon slice, and a sprig of fresh mint, if using. Serve at once!