Homemade Pineapple Lemonade

Homemade Pineapple Lemonade

Prep Time:

15 minutes
Chill Time (optional): 1 hour
Yields: 6–8 servings

Ingredients:

For the Pineapple Juice:

• 1 ripe pineapple (or 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks)

• 1/2 cup water (for blending, optional)

For the Lemonade:

• 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (4–6 large lemons)

• 3/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)

• 4 cups cold water (for dilution)

• 1 cup ice (optional, for serving)

• Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)

• Pineapple or lemon slices (optional, for garnish)

️ Instructions:

Step 1: Make the Pineapple Juice

1. Peel and core the pineapple. Cut into chunks.

2. Blend the pineapple chunks in a blender until smooth. Add 1/2 cup water if needed to help it blend.

3. Strain the juice through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove pulp. Set aside the smooth juice (should yield about 1.5–2 cups).

Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Base

4. Juice the lemons to get 1 cup of fresh lemon juice. Strain out seeds and excess pulp.

Step 3: Dissolve the Sugar

5. In a large pitcher, combine the lemon juice and sugar.

6. Stir vigorously until the sugar is fully dissolved (you can warm a small portion of water to help dissolve sugar faster if needed).

Step 4: Combine Everything

7. Add the fresh pineapple juice to the pitcher.

8. Pour in 4 cups of cold water and stir everything together.

9. Taste and adjust:

   • Add more sugar if too tart.

   • Add more lemon juice if too sweet.

   • Add more water if too strong.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

10. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to chill and let the flavors meld (optional).

11. Serve over ice, garnished with mint leaves and pineapple/lemon slices.

Variations:

• Sparkling version: Replace 1–2 cups of water with sparkling water or club soda just before serving.

• Frozen slushie: Blend with ice for a frozen pineapple lemonade.

• Herbal twist: Muddle fresh basil or mint into the pitcher for an herbaceous kick.

Storage:

• Store in the refrigerator in a sealed container for up to 3–4 days.

• Stir before serving as natural separation may occur.