Cold brew coffee lemonade is a delicious fusion of two classic flavors that offer both refreshment and a caffeine kick.
This balanced beverage is perfect for hot days when you want something cool, invigorating, and a little different from the usual iced coffee or lemonade.
The recipe combines smooth cold brew coffee with homemade lemonade, resulting in a harmonious blend of bold, bitter, sweet, and tart notes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Cold brew coffee’s smooth, less acidic profile complements the bright citrus flavor of lemonade without overpowering it.
- Making lemonade from scratch allows control over sweetness and tartness to perfectly balance with the coffee’s bitterness.
- Serving it well chilled enhances refreshment and keeps the flavors vibrant.
Cold Brew Coffee Lemonade
A refreshing and energizing beverage that blends the smooth richness of cold brew coffee with the bright zest of lemonade. Perfect for a summer pick-me-up.
- Prep time
- 10 minutes
- Cook time
- 0 minutes
- Servings
- 2
- Yield
- 2 servings (about 16 ounces / 480 ml)
Ingredients
- 1 cup (240 ml) cold brew coffee, chilled
- 1 cup (240 ml) freshly squeezed lemonade (from about 2 lemons)
- 1 to 2 teaspoons simple syrup or honey (optional, adjust to taste)
- Ice cubes
- Lemon slices or coffee beans for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Fresh Lemonade If not using pre-made lemonade, juice about 2 lemons to yield 1 cup (240 ml) of fresh lemon juice. Mix with 1 cup (240 ml) cold water and sweeten with 1 to 2 teaspoons of simple syrup or honey, adjusting to your taste preference. Stir well.
- Combine Lemonade and Cold Brew Coffee In a large glass or pitcher, combine 1 cup chilled cold brew coffee with 1 cup freshly prepared lemonade. Stir gently to combine.
- Serve Over Ice Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the cold brew lemonade mixture over the ice. Garnish with lemon slices or a few coffee beans, if desired.
Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality cold brew coffee for the best flavor—smooth and low in acidity.
- Adjust sweetness by adding simple syrup or honey to your preference since cold brew coffee can be slightly bitter.
- Ensure both cold brew and lemonade are well chilled before mixing to maintain a refreshing temperature without watering down with too much ice.
- For a twist, try adding a splash of sparkling water for some fizz.
Storage and Make-Ahead
Store any leftover cold brew coffee lemonade in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Stir well before serving again as ingredients may separate upon standing.
Do not leave beverages containing fresh lemon juice at room temperature for extended periods to avoid spoilage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bottled lemonade for this recipe?
Yes, bottled lemonade can be used, but fresh lemonade will yield a brighter, fresher flavor balance with the cold brew coffee.
How do I make cold brew coffee at home?
Coarsely grind coffee beans, steep in cold water for 12-24 hours, then strain through a coffee filter or fine mesh.
Is this drink suitable for kids?
This recipe contains coffee, so it's not recommended for children due to caffeine content.
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