This refreshing whipped pink lemonade is perfect for hot days! With zesty lemons, creamy whipped topping, and a pop of color, it’s both tasty and fun to drink.
Making this pink lemonade always brightens my day. It’s easy to whip up and looks pretty in a glass too! I like to add a slice of lemon on top for a cute touch! 🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed juice is the best option for flavor. If you’re in a pinch, bottled lemon juice works too, but the taste might not be as vibrant. I love using a citrus juicer to get every drop out of the lemons!
Sugar: Regular granulated sugar is key for sweetness, but you can substitute with honey or a sugar alternative like agave syrup for a different flavor. If you’re reducing sugar, use about half the amount to start and taste as you go.
Pink Lemonade Concentrate: This adds the lovely pink hue and a little extra zing. If you can’t find it, use pink food coloring or even a splash of cranberry juice as a fun alternative for color and taste!
Heavy Whipping Cream: This gives the whipped topping its creamy texture. If you want a lighter option, you can use whipped coconut cream instead. Just chill a can of coconut milk and scoop out the creamy part.
How Do I Get the Whipped Topping Just Right?
Making the whipped topping is super easy, but a few tips can help you nail it:
- Make sure your mixing bowl and beaters are cold. Chill them in the fridge for about 15 minutes before you start.
- Beat the heavy cream on medium speed until it starts to thicken, then add in the powdered sugar and vanilla. This will help to avoid graininess.
- Continue beating until stiff peaks form—this means that when you lift the beaters, the cream holds its shape. Don’t overbeat, or it could turn lumpy!
I find that piping the whipped cream on top gives a lovely finish, but a simple spoonful works just as well if you’re in a hurry!
Refreshing Whipped Pink Lemonade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 4-6 lemons)
- 1 cup sugar
- 4 cups cold water
- 1/4 cup pink lemonade concentrate or a few drops of pink food coloring (optional for color)
- Ice cubes
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Maraschino cherries, for garnish
- Lemon slices, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing pink lemonade recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare. Once you’ve made it, you might want to let it chill for an extra few minutes so it’s nice and cool. With a whimsical whipped topping and fruity flavor, it’s perfect for a sunny day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Lemonade Base:
Start by squeezing about 4-6 lemons to get 1 cup of fresh lemon juice. In a large pitcher, mix the lemon juice with 1 cup of sugar. Stir it well until the sugar has completely dissolved. This will give you a sweet and tangy base for your lemonade.
2. Combine with Water:
Next, pour in 4 cups of cold water into the pitcher with your lemon-sugar mixture. If you want a lovely pink color, add in 1/4 cup of pink lemonade concentrate or a few drops of pink food coloring. Give everything a good stir to mix well!
3. Serve Over Ice:
Now it’s time to serve! Fill your glasses with ice cubes, then pour the pink lemonade over the ice until each glass is nice and full.
4. Whip the Cream:
For the fluffy whipped topping, grab a mixing bowl and the chilled heavy whipping cream. Beat the cream with an electric mixer on medium speed until it begins to thicken. Then, add 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Continue to beat until you achieve stiff peaks, meaning the cream holds its shape beautifully.
5. Top and Garnish:
Spoon or pipe the whipped cream over each glass of pink lemonade. To make it extra special, garnish with a maraschino cherry and a slice of lemon on the rim of each glass.
6. Enjoy!
Serve your refreshing whipped pink lemonade immediately, and watch everyone enjoy this sweet, creamy, and colorful drink!
This delightful recipe is not just pleasing to the eye but also wonderfully refreshing, making it a perfect summer treat for friends and family. Enjoy every sip!
Can I Use Bottled Lemon Juice Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use bottled lemon juice if you don’t have fresh ones on hand! However, fresh lemon juice offers a brighter and more vibrant flavor. If you do use bottled juice, check for “100% lemon juice” to avoid added sugars or preservatives.
How Can I Sweeten the Lemonade Without Sugar?
If you want to avoid sugar, try using honey, agave syrup, or a sugar substitute like stevia. Start with about half the amount you would normally use, and adjust to taste, as these can be sweeter than regular sugar.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Whipping Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option or have dietary restrictions, you can use coconut cream instead of heavy whipping cream. Just chill a can of coconut milk, then scoop out the solid cream. You can also use store-bought whipped topping for convenience!
Can I Make This Lemonade Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the lemonade base and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. However, for the best texture, whip the cream shortly before serving, as it can lose volume over time. Just add it on top right before you enjoy!
