When the weather turns warm, nothing beats a tall glass of ice-cold lemonade. But if you’re looking for something a little more special, something that feels like a sip of summer in the garden, rose lemonade is the answer.
This refreshing drink combines the tart brightness of freshly squeezed lemon juice with the delicate, fragrant notes of rose buds. The lemon and rose combo creates a floral drink that’s delightful to drink and looks so pretty. It is perfect for garden parties, picnics, or simply treating yourself to a moment of calm on a hot day.
Ingredients
You only need three simple ingredients to make rose lemonade:
- Sugar: For sweetening your drink. You can also use a simple syrup or honey if preferred.
- Rose buds: The key ingredient to infuse the rose flavor.
- Lemons: Fresh lemons make the best tasting lemonade.
Rose buds
Rose buds are the key ingredient to make a rose syrup, which sweetens your drink and lends its floral aroma.
Although it’s possible to use rose petals to make the rose syrup, I highly recommend using rose buds. Rose buds have a richer and stronger aroma, and they keep their shape color after steeping. They create a stronger rose syrup that shines through the tart lemon juice, making your lemonade extra fragrant.
When purchasing rose buds, try looking for ones with a darker color. The lighter ones are just as fragrant, but the darker ones give a more vibrant pink color to your drink. You can also use a mix of dark and light colored rose buds for an even better visual result.
You can usually find dried rose buds at tea shops and sometimes at farmers markets. You can also purchase them on Amazon.
How to make rose lemonade
- Heat sugar in a pot of water until dissolved. Then add the rose buds and simmer for 5 minutes. This creates the rose syrup. Allow the syrup to cool.
- If you have extra time, let the rose buds keep steeping in the syrup until ready to serve. They will keep infusing the syrup to create a darker color, making your drink look more striking.
- Combine the rose syrup with freshly squeezed lemon juice, and still or sparkling water as you prefer. Add ice cubes and serve.
Fresh lemon is the key
Freshly squeezed lemon juice from real lemons is the key to success. Bottled lemon juice does not taste as good. It also contains additives, which give the lemon juice a muddy dull color. By using fresh lemon juice, you will give your drink a much nicer appearance and flavor.
Make it a cocktail
For a grown-up version, add a splash of gin or vodka. You can also use the rose syrup to create your own cocktail or mocktail.
Why You’ll Love It
Rose lemonade isn’t just pretty—it’s soothing and aromatic, and offers a sensory experience beyond your everyday lemonade. The floral notes pair beautifully with the citrus, making each sip feel like a special occasion. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead and perfect for serving at parties, baby showers, and brunches.
Other fun recipes for the summer
- Black Sesame Ice Cream (No-Churn)
- Bubble Tea (Boba Tea, 珍珠奶茶)
- Avocado Smoothie (3-Ingredient)
- Mango Sticky Rice
- Black Rice Pudding with Coconut Milk
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Rose Lemonade
Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 cup edible dried rose buds
- 1 1/2 cups lemon juice (juice from 8 lemons)
- 6 cups still or sparkling water
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- Heat 1 cup water in a small saucepan until boiling. Add the sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Turn to low heat and add the rose buds. Let simmer for 5 minutes. Then turn off the heat and let the rose syrup cool off. If you have extra time, keep the rose buds in the syrup to infuse more flavor and color. Once ready to serve, drain the syrup and remove the rose buds. Reserve some rose buds for garnish if desired.
- Combine the lemon juice, your choice of still or sparkling water, and the syrup. Mix well.
- To serve, fill your glasses with ice, pour in the rose lemonade, and garnish with lemon slices and extra rose buds if preferred.
Nutrition
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