Spring has officially sprung in my neck of the woods, and I plan to be sipping on this refreshing lavender lemonade all season long– and all summer, too! Made with culinary lavender, freshly squeezed lemon juice, honey, and sugar, this lavender lemonade recipe has a delightful floral flavor that’s not too overpowering. Plus, would you look at that color? So fun! Henry and Jack love when I make this fun drink as an after school treat.
What’s in This Lavender Lemonade Recipe?
I love classic lemonade, but when I heard about lavender lemonade, I knew I had to make it. Lavender has such a unique floral flavor with hints of rosemary and mint, and it pairs so well with tart and refreshing lemonade.
- Sugar: Regular granulated sugar cuts the acidity of the lemon juice and sweetens this classic drink. You can add more or less depending on your preferred level of sweetness.
- Honey: Plays up the floral flavor of the lavender. I always recommend using local organic honey if you can.
- Lavender: Dried culinary lavender is what you need! Whole Foods sells fresh lavender, but you can also order it on Amazon. You want to be sure you buy lavender meant for eating/cooking.
- Lemon Juice: For the very best flavor, you should really only use freshly squeezed lemon juice! Avoid using anything from concentrate.
- Food Coloring: Just a few drops of blue or purple food coloring is my secret weapon for that pretty purple color. This is optional of course.
Make It A Lavender Lemonade Cocktail
As soon as I learned how to make lavender lemonade, my mind immediately went to how to add alcohol. After rigorous experimentation (you’re welcome!), I have found that vodka and gin taste the best. Vodka will give you a buzz without altering the flavor, while gin will play up the floral elements of the drink.
A bit of champagne would turn it into a nice, bubbly drink for bridal showers or brunch. Or you could also use tequila instead and make a lavender margarita.
How to Store
You can store a pitcher of lavender lemonade in the fridge for up to 1 week. Make sure the pitcher has an airtight lid on it for the best, freshest results.
If you have any leftover beyond a week, I like to pour it into an ice cube tray and make lavender lemonade ice cubes to add to drinks!
Notes from the Test Kitchen
I recommend adding some purple or blue food coloring to make the color even brighter and prettier, but that is totally optional. It’s a fun twist if you’re making this mocktail for baby or wedding showers, but it’s not necessary.
How to Make Lavender Lemonade Step by Step
Steep the Lavender: Over medium heat, combine 2 cups of water and ½ cup of granulated sugar, bringing to a boil until the sugar is dissolved. Turn off the heat and stir in ¼ cup of honey and 3 tablespoons of dried culinary lavender. Allow the mixture to steep for 2 hours (less if you want less of a lavender taste).
Strain the Lavender Syrup: Strain the liquid, pressing the lavender down to make sure you get all of those juices into your mixture!
Make the Lemonade: In a large pitcher, combine 2 cups of freshly squeezed lemon juice, the lavender mixture, and the remaining 4 cups of water. Feel free to add a couple drops of blue or purple food coloring if you want more color than the lavender provides. Makes the lemonade especially cute for those brunches! Serve over ice.
Lavender Lemonade
Ingredients
Method
- In a small saucepan, combine dried lavender and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat. Let steep for 10 minutes.
- Strain the lavender water into a pitcher, discarding the flowers.
- Add sugar to the warm lavender water and stir until fully dissolved.
- Add lemon juice and 4 cups of cold water. Stir well.
- Chill in the refrigerator or serve over ice. Garnish with lemon slices and lavender sprigs if desired.
Notes
- Use culinary-grade lavender only, as ornamental varieties may be bitter or treated with chemicals.
- Adjust the sugar to taste or substitute with honey or agave syrup for a different sweetness profile.
- For a sparkling version, replace some of the cold water with sparkling water or club soda just before serving.
- This lemonade keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days—just stir before serving.
- Add a splash of vodka or gin for a simple adult twist.
