Cranberry Lemonade

This cranberry lemonade blends tart cranberries with fresh lemon juice for a vibrant, refreshing drink. It’s simple to make, adaptable for parties or cocktails, and naturally colorful.

Print Pin

Course: Beverage

Cuisine: American

Keyword: cranberry lemonade, cranberry lemonade detox cleanse, cranberry lemonade punch, cranberry lemonade recipe

Prep Time: 10

Cook Time: 15

Total Time: 25

Servings: glasses

Calories: 90kcal

Author: Sophie Lane

Equipment

Saucepan
Strainer
Pitcher
Wooden Spoon
Citrus juicer

Ingredients

2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
½ cup sugar adjust to taste
3 cups water divided
½ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice about 3 lemons
Ice cubes as needed
Garnish: lemon slices fresh cranberries, mint leaves

Instructions

In a saucepan, combine cranberries, 1 ½ cups water, and sugar. Simmer over medium heat until cranberries burst (about 8–10 minutes).
Strain the mixture into a bowl or pitcher, discarding solids. Let cool.
Stir in fresh lemon juice and the remaining 1 ½ cups of cold water.
Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
Chill in the refrigerator or serve immediately over ice.
Garnish with lemon slices, fresh cranberries, or mint before serving.

Notes

For a detox version, replace sugar with honey or stevia and use unsweetened cranberry concentrate.

To make cranberry lemonade punch, double the recipe and add sparkling water or ginger ale.

For an adult twist, add 1–2 oz vodka per serving and garnish with frozen cranberries.

Make ahead: Store the cranberry syrup in the fridge for up to 5 days and mix with lemon juice when ready.

Nutrition