Hey there!
If you’re looking for a fun, fruity drink that’s a little sweet, a little tart, and super refreshing—Plum Lemonade is it! We made this over the weekend, and my kids were obsessed.
It’s super easy to throw together, and it’s way better than anything from a bottle.
This is one of those drinks you’ll want to sip all summer long.
Let’s make it!
🫶 Why I Love This Recipe
This plum lemonade is sweet, tangy, and has the prettiest pink color. It feels fancy, but it’s really easy to make. Here’s why we love it at my house:
- It’s a fun twist on regular lemonade 🍋
- My kids love helping squish the plums!
- You can make it ahead and chill it in the fridge
- It’s perfect for parties, BBQs, or just sitting on the porch
🍑 What You’ll Need
- 4 ripe plums, pitted and chopped
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4–6 lemons)
- 1/2 to 3/4 cup sugar (depending on how sweet you like it)
- 3 cups cold water
- Ice
- Extra lemon slices and plum slices for garnish (optional)
- Mint leaves for garnish (optional)
🔍 Pro Tips
- Use really ripe plums—they’re juicier and sweeter.
- Strain the plum mixture if you want a smoother lemonade.
- Let it chill in the fridge for a bit to deepen the flavor.
- Kids can help stir and squeeze lemons (just watch for seeds!).
- Add sparkling water instead of still for a fizzy version!
🧰 Tools You’ll Need
- Knife and cutting board
- Small saucepan
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Fine mesh strainer (optional)
- Pitcher
- Citrus juicer
- Measuring cups
- Glasses for serving
🔁 Substitutions & Variations
- Sugar: Swap for honey or agave (start with less and taste).
- Plums: Try peaches, blackberries, or cherries instead.
- Lemon Juice: Bottled is okay, but fresh is best.
- Make it fizzy: Use club soda or sparkling water instead of still.
🕒 Make Ahead Tips
You can make this up to 2 days ahead! Just keep it chilled and give it a good stir before serving. Wait to add the ice until you’re ready to drink it.
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Cook the plums with sugar and water
In a small saucepan, add chopped plums, 1/2 cup sugar, and 1/2 cup water. Heat over medium until the plums are soft and syrupy—about 10 minutes.
2. Mash and strain (optional)
Mash the cooked plums with a spoon to get all the juice out. Strain through a fine mesh strainer if you want a smooth lemonade.
3. Mix with lemon juice and water
In a pitcher, add 1 cup lemon juice, the plum syrup (strained or not), and 2.5 cups cold water. Stir well to combine.
4. Chill and serve over ice
Let it chill in the fridge for 30 minutes or more. Serve over ice with plum and lemon slices, and a sprig of mint if you’re feeling fancy.
🧊 Leftovers & Storage
- Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Stir before serving—plum bits can settle.
- Don’t store with ice in the pitcher—it’ll water it down.
🍽️ What to Serve With Plum Lemonade
- BBQ chicken or grilled burgers
- Simple pasta salad
- Watermelon slices
- Cookies or lemon bars for dessert
- Cheese and crackers for a little picnic vibe
❓FAQ
Can I use frozen plums?
Yep! Just thaw them first.
Do I have to strain it?
Nope! If you like it pulpy, leave it as is.
How can I make it less sweet?
Start with less sugar and taste as you go.
Is it okay to use bottled lemon juice?
You can, but fresh gives the best flavor.
💬 Let’s Wrap It Up!
Plum Lemonade is seriously one of the easiest, prettiest, and most refreshing drinks you can make at home. It’s fun to whip up with kids, and it’s perfect for any warm day. I hope you give it a try—and when you do, come back and let me know how it turned out! Got questions or want to share your twist on it? Drop a comment below! 🍋💜
