Imagine sipping on a refreshing glass of Blackberry Thyme and Vanilla Lemonade on a hot summer day, where every sip bursts with the vibrant flavors of fresh blackberries and aromatic thyme. This delightful twist on a classic lemonade is not only a feast for your taste buds but also an eye-catching addition to any gathering. With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up a stunning beverage that will impress your guests and leave them asking for the recipe. Are you ready to elevate your lemonade game? Let’s dive into this easy yet sophisticated recipe that will have everyone coming back for more!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh blackberries
- 1/4 cup fresh thyme leaves
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice
- 3 cups cold water
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine fresh blackberries, sugar, 1 cup water, and fresh thyme leaves. Place over medium heat and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Crush the blackberries with the back of a wooden spoon while the mixture simmers, releasing their juices and infusing the syrup with thyme flavor. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the berries break down and the sugar completely dissolves.
- Remove the blackberry-thyme syrup from heat and strain through a fine-mesh sieve, pressing the solids to extract maximum flavor. Discard the solids and let the syrup cool to room temperature.
- In a large pitcher, combine the cooled blackberry-thyme syrup with fresh lemon juice and 3 cups of cold water. Stir thoroughly to blend all ingredients.
- Add a splash of vanilla extract for depth of flavor, if desired. Taste and adjust sweetness by adding more sugar or water as needed.
- Refrigerate the lemonade for at least 30 minutes to chill and allow flavors to meld together.
- When ready to serve, fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the chilled blackberry thyme lemonade over the ice.
- Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs and a few whole blackberries for an elegant presentation. Serve immediately and enjoy.
Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh blackberries and thyme. They will enhance the overall taste of your lemonade and provide a vibrant color.
- Adjust Sweetness: Depending on your preference and the tartness of the lemons, feel free to adjust the sugar content. Start with the recommended amount and add more if needed after tasting.
- Infuse with Vanilla: A splash of vanilla extract adds a delightful depth to the lemonade. Experiment with the amount to find your perfect balance.
- Chill for Flavor: Allow the lemonade to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld beautifully, creating a more refreshing drink.
- Garnish Creatively: Elevate your presentation by garnishing each glass with fresh thyme sprigs and whole blackberries. This not only looks appealing but also adds a touch of sophistication.
- Serve Over Ice: For the ultimate refreshment, serve your lemonade over plenty of ice cubes. This keeps the drink cool and refreshing for longer.
- Make It Ahead: This recipe can be made in advance. Just prepare the syrup and mix it with lemon juice and water when you’re ready to serve, making it perfect for parties.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
