Strawberries & Cream Lemonade

Is there anything more refreshing than a cold glass of lemonade on a toasty day? It’s a summertime staple for a reason! And while the classic lemon juice and sugar recipes will never fail you, it would be a disservice not to let you in on my new favorite version: Strawberries & Cream Lemonade. Yup, you heard that right. This recipe combines the tangy zest of freshly squeezed lemons with the sweetness of ripe strawberries and creamy decadence of sweetened condensed milk. I promise it is every bit as delicious as it sounds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Strawberries & Cream Lemonade is not just a thirst-quencher; it’s a delightful treat for your taste buds. The blend of flavors creates a harmonious balance of tartness and sweetness, with a creamy twist that makes it incredibly satisfying. It’s perfect for summer gatherings or a relaxing afternoon in the sun.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Blender or food processor
• Fine mesh strainer (optional)
• 1/2 gallon pitcher
• Large spoon for stirring

Ingredients

• 2 cups ice
• 1 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (5-7 lemons)
• 1 ½ – 2 cups fresh strawberries
• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• Pinch of salt
• 5-6 cups cold water
• Optional: mashed strawberries and lemon slices for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Place strawberries in a blender or food processor and blend until fully pureed. Optional: use a fine mesh strainer to strain out seeds if desired.
2. Add ice to a 1/2 gallon pitcher then add lemon juice, strawberry puree, sweetened condensed milk, and salt. Use a large spoon to stir for about 1 minute until smooth.
3. Add cold water and stir to combine. Add additional mashed strawberries and lemon slices if desired. Serve and enjoy!

Tips for Success

To make the most out of this recipe, use fresh strawberries and freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor. Adjust the sweetness by adding the sweetened condensed milk gradually until it suits your taste. Mixing thoroughly is key to achieving a smooth consistency.

Additional Tips or Variations

For a fizzy twist, replace some of the cold water with sparkling water. You can also experiment by adding a splash of vanilla extract for an extra layer of flavor. If you prefer a dairy-free version, try substituting the sweetened condensed milk with coconut milk and a bit of honey.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This refreshing drink is a delightful indulgence. While exact nutritional values can vary, expect a serving to provide a good dose of Vitamin C from the lemons and strawberries, with added calcium from the sweetened condensed milk.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I use frozen strawberries? Yes, frozen strawberries will work, but fresh strawberries will provide the best flavor.
• How long can I store the lemonade? It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir before serving.
• Can I make this lemonade ahead of time? Absolutely! Prepare it a few hours in advance and keep it chilled until you’re ready to serve.

Conclusion

This Strawberries & Cream Lemonade is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. It’s perfect for any occasion and is bound to impress your family and friends. Give it a try and let me know how you like it! Feel free to share your experiences and any creative twists you discover along the way.