There’s something magical about a glass of Strawberry lavender lemonade on a warm afternoon.
The zesty brightness of fresh lemon, the natural sweetness of ripe strawberries, and the calming aroma of lavender come together in the most refreshing way.
This isn’t just any lemonade—it’s a beautiful, lightly floral twist that feels elegant and homemade all at once.
Whether you’re hosting a picnic or just looking for something special to sip, this drink is sunshine in a glass.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Bright and zesty – Thanks to real, fresh lemon juice.
Floral twist – A subtle, calming hint from culinary lavender.
Naturally sweetened – With sugar or your favorite alternative.
Easy to make – No fancy tools, just simmer, steep, and chill.
Pretty and pink – Gorgeous color and perfect for sharing.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Lemon juice – Meyer lemons bring a natural sweetness, but any fresh lemon juice works.
Strawberries – Use fresh, juicy strawberries for the best flavor and color.
Sugar – Balances the tartness of the lemons and enhances the strawberry notes.
Lavender sprigs – Culinary-grade lavender adds a soft, floral aroma.
Water + ice – To dilute and chill your lemonade to the perfect sip.
Optional: lavender oil – A single drop (food-safe only) enhances the floral aroma.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Only use culinary lavender – Not all lavender is safe to consume.
Don’t over-steep – Too much time makes it bitter. 5–15 minutes is enough.
Strain thoroughly – To avoid bits of lavender or pulp in your lemonade.
Chill before serving – This lemonade tastes best ice-cold.
Adjust to taste – Add more sugar or lemon depending on your flavor preference.
How to Make Strawberry Lavender Lemonade
Step 1: Simmer the Base
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, lemon juice, and 2 cups of water.
Stir gently until the sugar dissolves and the mixture comes to a gentle boil.
Step 2: Steep the Flavor
Remove from heat. Add the lavender sprigs and sliced strawberries.
Let everything steep together for 15 minutes, allowing the flavor and color to infuse.
Step 3: Strain and Chill
Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a large pitcher.
Discard the lavender and strawberry solids.
Step 4: Add Cold Water
Pour in 2 additional cups of ice-cold water.
Stir well to combine and cool the lemonade.
Step 5: Serve Over Ice
Fill glasses with ice and pour the lemonade over.
Garnish with fresh strawberry slices or a sprig of lavender if you’re feeling fancy.
What to Serve It With
Arugula or cucumber salad – Light and refreshing pairings.
Mini lemon tarts – Sweet-tart desserts to complement the lemonade.
Tea sandwiches – For an afternoon tea or baby shower vibe.
Goat cheese crostini – Tangy cheese and herbs go wonderfully with floral drinks.
Variations / Substitutions
Sparkling version – Use club soda or sparkling water instead of still.
Use honey or agave – Swap sugar for natural sweeteners if preferred.
Add herbs – Try basil or mint for a fresh herbal twist.
Make it a cocktail – A splash of gin or vodka turns it into a summer spritz.
No lavender? – Just leave it out or substitute with fresh mint for a cooling effect.
Storage & Leftovers
Refrigerate – Store in a sealed pitcher in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Stir before serving – Natural settling may occur—just give it a swirl.
Avoid freezing – Thawed lemonade can become bitter or separate.
FAQs
Can I use dried lavender instead of fresh?
Yes! Use 1 teaspoon dried lavender and steep for only 5–7 minutes to prevent bitterness.
Can I make it less sweet?
Absolutely—just reduce the sugar by a few tablespoons, or use a natural sweetener like stevia.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.
How do I make the color brighter?
Use extra strawberries or add a few raspberries during steeping for a deeper pink.
Is this lemonade kid-friendly?
Yes! There’s no alcohol, and the sweetness and color make it perfect for kids.
Can I make it ahead?
Definitely. It tastes even better after chilling for a few hours.
What’s the best way to garnish it?
Try strawberry slices, a sprig of lavender, or lemon wheels for presentation.
Final Thoughts
This strawberry lavender lemonade is one of my favorite summer sips.
It feels fancy but is so easy to make, and that floral-citrus combo is seriously refreshing.
Whether you’re hosting brunch, lounging by the pool, or just need something to brighten your day—this is the lemonade that does it all.
