Looking for the perfect drink to enjoy on a sunny day? This Homemade Vanilla Lemonade is just what you need! It’s refreshing, tangy, and has a touch of vanilla that makes it extra special. Whether you’re having a picnic, a garden party, or just relaxing at home, this lemonade is sure to impress. The best part? You won’t find this flavor in stores—it’s a treat you make yourself!
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Vanilla Lemonade: The Perfect Tangy and Sweet Summer Beverage
This lemonade is special because it’s all about balance. The tartness of fresh lemons blends perfectly with the smooth sweetness of vanilla. Every sip is refreshing and feels like a little indulgence.
Hosting friends, going on a picnic, or treating yourself? This drink brings a bit of sunshine to any moment. Once you try it, you’ll want to make it all summer long!
And if you like lemonade, you also might enjoy this strawberry lemonade, lavender lemonade and ginger syrup for lemonade.
What do you need?
You’ll find the full recipe in the card below, but here are some quick tips:
Why do you use lemons?
Good organic lemons are the key to great lemonade. They’re juicy, fresh, and give that classic citrus flavor.
Want it less tangy?
Add more water or mix in a splash of orange juice for a milder taste.
Vanilla Pod or Extract?
The vanilla pod adds a sweet, aromatic flavor. Use both the seeds and the pod itself. No pod? No problem! Replace it with a teaspoon of pure vanilla extract.
Garnish Ideas
Thin lemon slices, fresh mint leaves, and ice cubes make the drink look as good as it tastes.
How to Make It in 4 Easy Steps
- Step 1 Make the Syrup: Combine water and sugar in a saucepan. Heat until the sugar dissolves.
- Step 2 Add Vanilla: Split the vanilla pod, scrape out the seeds, and add both to the syrup. Simmer for 5 minutes, then let it cool.
- Step 3 Squeeze Lemons: Freshly squeeze your lemons for the best flavor.
- Step 4 Mix and Chill: Pour the cooled syrup into a jug. Add the lemon juice and water to taste. Let it chill in the fridge for at least an hour.
Serve in Style: Pour the lemonade over ice in glasses. Garnish with lemon slices and mint leaves for a fresh, summery look.
What Goes Well with Vanilla Lemonade?
- Light Snacks: Rye Bread Sandwiches with Cucumber and Smoked Salmon and a fresh fruit basket.
- Sweet Treats: English Scones with Strawberries and chocolate chip cookies.
Top Tip
Fizzy Twist? Use sparkling water instead of still water for a bubbly version.
Did you make this recipe? Tag #byandreajanssen via Instagram. I enjoy seeing what your creation looks like. Video recipes can be found on my YouTube channel. And don't forget to save the recipes on Pinterest so you can easily find them next time!
📖 Recipe
VIDEO
RECIPE CARD
Ingredients
For the lemonade:
- 4¼ cups water
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 vanilla pod
- 5 lemons, juice
For the garnish
- 2 oz. ice cubes
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 1 handful fresh mint leaves
Instructions
Make a vanilla sugar syrup
- Pour the water into a large saucepan and add the sugar.4¼ cups water, 1 cup sugar
- Bring the mixture to a slow boil over medium heat and stir until the sugar completely dissolves.
- Cut open the vanilla pod and scrape out the seeds. Add the seeds and the vanilla pod to the syrup.1 vanilla pod
- Let the syrup simmer gently for 5 minutes to infuse the vanilla flavor.
Cool and mix
- Remove the pan from the heat and let the syrup cool to room temperature.
- Remove the vanilla pod.
- Mix the cooled syrup with the freshly squeezed lemon juice in a large glass jug. Add extra water if you want a milder drink.5 lemons
Serve
- Place the jug in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, so the flavors can be well infused, and the lemonade becomes deliciously cold.
- Fill stylish glasses with ice cubes or crushed ice. Pour the lemonade over it.2 oz. ice cubes
- Garnish each glass with a slice of lemon and a few fresh mint leaves.1 lemon, 1 handful fresh mint leaves
Notes
Nutrition
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