Peach Lemonade (Gets Better Overnight)
This peach lemonade gets better overnight. The secret is macerating the peaches with sugar to draw out their deep flavor before blending with fresh lemon juice and a whisper of vanilla. Fifteen minutes of work, and the next day you have the best summer drink you've ever tasted.
Equipment
- Medium bowl
- Blender or food processor
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Large pitcher (2 quart)
Ingredients
- 4 medium ripe yellow peaches (about 1 1/2 lbs)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 5-6 lemons)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional but recommended)
- 3 cups cold water
Instructions
- Peel and slice the peaches: Score an X on the bottom of each peach. Drop them in boiling water for 30 seconds, then transfer to an ice bath. The skins slip right off. Slice into wedges, discarding the pits.
- Macerate: Toss the peach slices with the sugar in a medium bowl. Let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. You should see a pool of pinkish syrup at the bottom of the bowl after that time.
- Blend: Pour the peaches and all that syrup into a blender. Add the vanilla extract and lemon juice. Blend until completely smooth – about 30 to 45 seconds.
- Strain: Pour through a fine-mesh strainer into your pitcher. Press on the solids with the back of a spoon to get every last drop. (If you prefer more texture, skip the strainer.)
- Stir and chill: Add the 3 cups of cold water to the pitcher. Stir well. Taste and adjust sweetener or water. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, but overnight is best.
- Serve: Fill glasses with ice, pour the lemonade over, and garnish with a peach slice and a mint sprig if desired.
Notes
Tips for the best results: Don't skip the maceration step – that's where the deep peach flavor lives. For extra brightness, zest one lemon into the blender. Taste and adjust at every stage since peaches vary in sweetness. For a smoother drink, strain twice through cheesecloth. To make ahead, store in a sealed pitcher in the fridge for up to 5 days; the flavor peaks on day 2 or 3. The lemonade also freezes well for up to 3 months.