Lavender lemonade has easily become on of my absolute favorite summer beverages, we started making it one summer here at Go Ask Alice and it was always so well received by all of our customers. Since covid, we have had to stop our tea samples, but soon we are looking to add 1 or 2 demo-days in the shop, where we will be serving free tea and snacks for the day!
This recipe is really easy, and is only one way to make lavender lemonade. You can actually use this basic recipe to make any floral lemonade you desire! This recipe would work well with rose!
Step 1: Infused Lavender Sugar
First, you'll want to combine the sugar and the lavender in a clean, heat-safe jar. Using clean fingers, gently rub the flowers into the sugar crystals to crush the lavender flowers and activate the aromatic oils.
Step 2: Make Lavender Simple Syrup
Next, you'll want to pour hot water into the sugar and lavender mixture. Stir to combine fully and cover to let infuse for at least 30 mins. The longer you let this mixture infuse, the stronger the end result will be. I tend to like a stronger lavender flavor so I will usually let mine infuse for a few hours, usually around 2 hours. Once it has infused & cooled, strain the lavender flowers out and store your lavender simple syrup in a clean, air-tight jar. Date and label.
To make the lemonade, you can definitely use store bought, but fresh is always best! Make sure to have lots of ice on hand to chill the drink, and adjust the water, lemon juice and sugar to your liking. The measurements down below are to my taste-adjust to yours if needed!
Ingredients:
1 small handful freshly picked and rinsed lavender flowers, or 1 tablespoon dried lavender flowers
1 cup sugar
2 cups boiling water
1 1/2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice
2 cups cold water, plus more as needed
Lots of ice
Garnish with a few lemon slices and sprigs of lavender