Spiked Strawberry Lemonade

This Spiked Strawberry Lemonade is tart, sweet, and dangerously refreshing. Fresh lemon juice, juicy strawberries, and a splash of strawberry rum turn this into the ultimate summer party drink.

Ingredients

• 3 cups water, divided
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
• 1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 4–5 lemons)
• 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
• 1 cup strawberry-flavored rum

Equipment

• Small saucepan
• Fine mesh strainer
• Pitcher
• Blender
• Wooden spoon for stirring

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the lemonade base. In a saucepan, bring 2 cups of water and sugar to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until sugar dissolves, about 3 minutes. Stir in lemon zest and lemon juice. Remove from heat and let cool completely. Strain into a pitcher.
2. Prep the strawberries. In a blender, puree the strawberries until smooth. Strain to remove seeds and pulp, then add puree to the pitcher.
3. Mix it up. Stir in the remaining 1 cup of water and strawberry rum until well combined.
4. Chill and serve. Refrigerate until cold. Serve over ice with lemon slices or fresh strawberries for garnish.

 

Tips for Success

• Chill your rum before adding it — it keeps the drink crisp and refreshing.
• Always strain the strawberry puree; it makes the texture smoother and more sippable.
• Start with a classic homemade lemonade for the best flavor.
• Want it bubbly? Swap the last cup of water for club soda.

Substitutions & Variations

• Rum swap: Use plain white rum and add two tablespoons of strawberry syrup if strawberry rum isn’t available.
• Vodka version: Substitute vodka for rum for a cleaner citrus kick.
• Mocktail option: Skip the booze and top with sparkling water for a kid-friendly lemonade.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve in tall glasses over crushed ice.
• Garnish with fresh mint, strawberry slices, or lemon wheels for a party-ready presentation.
• Pair with BBQ, grilled chicken, or summer salads.

leftovers & Storage

• Store in a sealed pitcher in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• If making ahead, keep the rum separate and add just before serving so the fruit flavors stay bright.

Pro Tip

If you’re hosting, freeze extra strawberry puree in ice cube trays. Use the cubes instead of plain ice so your lemonade stays fruity without watering down.

FAQs