There’s nothing quite like the refreshing zing of Frozen Lemonade to brighten your day. This icy treat combines the tangy sweetness of lemons with a smooth, slushy texture that melts perfectly on your tongue. Ready in just 10 minutes, it’s the ultimate quick fix for a hot afternoon or a sweet craving.
Packed with 30 mg of vitamin C, this vibrant drink not only tastes amazing but also gives you a little health boost. The balance of tart and sweet, paired with its frosty, velvety consistency, makes every sip feel like a mini escape. Perfect for sharing or savoring solo, this recipe is as simple as it is satisfying.
What You’ll Need for Frozen Lemonade
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced (remove seeds for a smoother blend)
- 1 cup sugar (adjust to taste or substitute with honey or stevia for a healthier option)
- ¾ cup cold water (use filtered water for the best flavor)
- ¾ cup lemon-lime soda (Sprite or 7UP work great, or use sparkling water for a less sweet version)
- ⅔ cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best, but bottled works in a pinch)
- 3 cups ice (use 2 cups for a thinner consistency or 3 cups for a thicker slushy texture)
How to Make Frozen Lemonade
- In a large bowl, mash the thinly sliced lemon and sugar together with a spoon. This helps release the lemon oils and infuse the sugar with flavor.
- Add the cold water, lemon-lime soda, and lemon juice to the bowl. Let the mixture stand for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.
- Transfer the lemon juice mixture to a blender. Add the ice and blend on high until the mixture is smooth and slushy (about 30-60 seconds, depending on your blender).
- Pour the frozen lemonade into 4 glasses and serve immediately. Garnish with a lemon slice or mint sprig if desired.
Creative Serving Suggestions
Take your Frozen Lemonade to the next level by serving it in frosted glasses for an extra refreshing touch. Garnish with a thin lemon slice or a sprig of fresh mint for a pop of color. For a fun twist, rim the glasses with sugar or a mix of sugar and lemon zest before pouring in the drink.
Recipe Variations to Try
Experiment with different flavors by swapping the lemon-lime soda for ginger ale or sparkling water for a lighter option. Add a handful of fresh raspberries or strawberries to the blender for a fruity twist. If you prefer a creamier texture, blend in a splash of coconut milk or vanilla yogurt.
Time-Saving Tips
To save time, prep your lemons ahead by slicing and storing them in an airtight container in the fridge. You can also make a sugar-lemon mixture in advance and keep it refrigerated for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply blend with the remaining ingredients for a quick and refreshing treat.
Equipment Guidance
A high-powered blender works best for achieving a smooth, slushy consistency. If your blender struggles with ice, try crushing the ice slightly before adding it. For a more rustic texture, use a muddler to mash the lemons and sugar instead of a spoon.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Frozen Lemonade is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftovers in the freezer for up to 24 hours. Let it thaw slightly before re-blending to restore its smooth texture. Avoid storing it longer, as the ice may crystallize and affect the drink’s quality.
Frozen Lemonade
Ingredients
- 1 thinly sliced lemon
- 1 cup sugar
- 3/4 cup cold water
- 3/4 cup lemon lime soda
- 2/3 cup lemon juice
- 3 cups ice 2-3 (depending how thick you want it)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mash together thinly sliced lemon and sugar with a spoon.
- Add water, soda, and lemon juice, letting it stand for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- In a blender, puree lemon juice mixture and ice until smooth.
- Pour into 4 glasses and serve.