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Beat the summer heat with this refreshing Blueberry Cherry Lemonade! This easy-to-make, naturally sweetened drink combines the vibrant flavors of blueberries, cherries, and fresh lemon juice for a perfectly balanced and smooth summer refreshment.
It’s vegan, gluten-free, and free from refined sugars, making it a delicious and healthy treat for everyone to enjoy.
This recipe is a harmonious blend of sweet, tart, and refreshing flavors. The natural sugars in the fruits are perfectly balanced by the acidity of the lemon juice. At the same time, the maple syrup ties everything together with a gentle sweetness.
By cooking the fruits gently, we unlock their full flavor potential, creating a rich, vibrant, and deeply satisfying lemonade. Plus, blending the mixture ensures you get every bit of that fruity goodness in every sip.
We love enjoying this refreshing blueberry cherry lemonade as a family during the summer, especially when these fruits are in season here in Oregon. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the vibrant flavors of the season while cooling off on those warm days.
Join us in celebrating summer with this refreshing Blueberry Cherry Lemonade! Grab your ingredients, whip up a batch, and enjoy the sweet, tangy goodness with your loved ones.
WHAT THIS RECIPE IS GOOD FOR YOU?
This Blueberry Cherry Lemonade Recipe isn’t just delicious—it’s also incredibly good for you. The blueberries and cherries are rich in antioxidants, helping to combat oxidative stress and support heart health.
Lemons, loaded with vitamin C, boost your immune system and aid in digestion.
The sweetness in this lemonade comes from maple syrup, a natural sweetener that’s lower on the glycemic index compared to refined sugar, making it a healthier choice.
And the best part? This recipe is vegan, gluten-free, and free from refined sugars, making it suitable for almost everyone, including those with common dietary restrictions.
HOW TO PREPARE THIS LEMONADE
(Please read the printable recipe card below for detailed ingredients, measurements, steps, and notes).
With only a few steps—heating the fruit mixture, blending, and mixing with water—you can whip up this refreshing drink in no time.
The hardest part might just be waiting for the fruit mixture to cool down before you can enjoy it!
It’s a perfect recipe for those who want something quick and impressive without spending too much time or effort.
Let’s explore kitchen tools, the required ingredients, and the steps with helpful pictures if needed.
USEFUL KITCHEN EQUIPMENT
To make this Blueberry Cherry Lemonade, you’ll need just a few basic kitchen tools:
- Saucepan: For gently cooking the fruit mixture, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- High-speed blender: To blend the cooled fruit mixture into a smooth, consistent base for your lemonade.
- Fine Mesh Strainer: To strain the blended mixture, removing any pulp for a smoother drink.
- Large Pitcher: To mix and serve your lemonade.
- Citrus Juicer: Optional but helpful for efficiently juicing the lemons.
Now, let’s review the list of ingredients and potential substitutions in some cases.
INGREDIENTS NOTES
Here is a list of everything you will need to prepare this delicious smoothie:
- Blueberries: These little berries are antioxidant powerhouses, offering a sweet, slightly tart flavor that pairs beautifully with cherries.
- Cherries: Rich in vitamins and bursting with juice, cherries add depth and sweetness to the lemonade.
- Lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brings a bright, tangy flavor that’s essential to any lemonade.
- Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener that’s vegan-friendly and free from refined sugars, giving your lemonade a gentle sweetness without overpowering the fruit flavors. You can also use Date Syrup.
- Water: The base of the lemonade, helping to dilute the mixture to the perfect consistency.
- Ice Cubes: Because what’s lemonade without that icy chill?
DIRECTIONS WITH PICTURES
To prepare this lemonade, follow these steps:
Prepare the Fruit Mixture: Combine blueberries, cherries, lemon juice, and maple syrup in a saucepan. Heat over medium-low, stirring until it boils. Reduce heat and stir for another minute to enhance the flavors.
Cool and Blend: Let the mixture cool completely, then blend until smooth. To speed up cooling, chill it in the fridge.
Strain and Combine: Strain the mixture into a pitcher. Add cold water and stir well.
Serve and Enjoy: Fill glasses with ice, pour the lemonade, garnish with mint if desired, and enjoy!
WHAT WILL YOU LOVE ABOUT THIS RECIPE?
Well, you will find that it is:
- Quick and Easy: Made with simple steps and ingredients.
- Refreshing Flavor: Perfect balance of sweet and tart, with vibrant fruit flavors.
- Eye-Catching Color: The rich, deep color of the lemonade is as appealing as its taste.
- Healthy Choice: Naturally sweetened, vegan, and free from refined sugars.
- Versatile: Great for cooling down on hot days or impressing guests at gatherings.
Let’s prepare this delicious lemonade!
OTHER SUMMER RECIPES TO TRY!
PRINTABLE RECIPE CARD
BLUEBERRY CHERRY LEMONADE RECIPE (Easy, Refined Sugar-Free)
Ingredients
- 1 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup cherries (fresh or frozen, pitted and roughly chopped)
- 4 lemons (juiced)
- 4 cups water (cold)
- 2-3 Tbsp maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- Ice cubes
- Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Fruit Mixture: Heat the cherries, blueberries, lemon juice, and maple syrup in a saucepan on the stove over medium-low heat. Keep stirring the mixture until it boils. When it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low and continue stirring for an additional minute. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool completely. You can refrigerate it to speed up the cooling process.
- Blend the Mixture: Once cooled, blend the mixture until smooth.
- Combine with Water: Pour the blended mixture into a large pitcher, using a fine mesh strainer as a filter. Add the cold water and stir well to combine.
- Serve: Fill four 8-oz glasses with ice cubes. Pour the blueberry cherry lemonade over the ice. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
- Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy your refreshing lemonade!
Notes
- Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of maple syrup to suit your taste preferences. Start with less and add more if needed.
- Chilling Time: For the best flavor, allow the lemonade to chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving.
- Fruit Substitutions: If you don’t have blueberries or cherries, you can substitute with other berries like raspberries or strawberries for a different twist.
- Make It Sparkling: For a fizzy version, replace half of the cold water with sparkling water just before serving.
- Storage: Any leftover lemonade can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Give it a good stir before serving, as natural separation may occur.
- Garnish Ideas: Fresh mint, lemon slices, or a few whole berries make beautiful and flavorful garnishes.
- Recipe adapted from Rainier Fruit Website.
WAYS TO ENJOY THIS RECIPE
- As a Refreshing Drink, it is Perfect for cooling down on a hot summer day, whether lounging by the pool or enjoying a picnic.
- At Family Gatherings: Serve this lemonade at BBQs, picnics, or family get-togethers—it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
- With a Meal: Pair it with light summer dishes like salads, wraps, or grilled veggies for a balanced and refreshing meal.
- Morning or Afternoon Pick-Me-Up: Enjoy it as a midday refreshment or as a healthy alternative to sugary drinks during the day.
- On the Go: Pour it into a travel-friendly bottle and take it for a refreshing beverage while you’re out and about.
Whether you’re lounging by the pool, hosting a summer party, or just looking for a delicious way to stay hydrated, this Blueberry Cherry Lemonade Recipe is the perfect go-to. So, grab your ingredients and give it a try—you’ll be glad you did!
DID YOU MAKE THIS BLUEBERRY CHERRY LEMONADE?
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