Nothing says refreshment like a chilled, tangy drink on a warm day, and this Frozen Raspberry Lemonade Recipe hits that spot perfectly. It’s creamy, fruity, and icy all at once—a delightful twist on classic lemonade that’s easy to whip up anytime you want to cool off with something special.
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
This frozen raspberry lemonade has become one of my go-to drinks, especially when I want something that feels a little indulgent but remains bright and refreshing. I love how it balances creamy richness with tart raspberries and zesty lemonade.
- Quick & Easy: You can make this in under 5 minutes with ingredients you probably already have, no fancy equipment needed.
- Creamy yet Fruity: The half and half adds smoothness without overpowering the fresh raspberry flavor.
- Customizable Texture: Whether you like it slushy or more smoothie-like, you’re in control by adjusting the ice and half and half.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: From backyard BBQs to casual afternoon treats, this recipe fits right in.
Ingredients & Why They Work
The beauty of this Frozen Raspberry Lemonade Recipe lies in its simple ingredients that complement each other so well. Each one plays a unique role, bringing flavor, texture, or a little extra something special.
- Fresh or Frozen Raspberries: They provide that vibrant tartness and gorgeous pink color. Using frozen raspberries keeps the drink chilled and thick without extra ice.
- Frozen Lemonade: A quick shortcut to get that classic lemonade tang without squeezing lemons or adding sugar separately.
- Half and Half: This adds a creamy texture that balances the lemonade’s acidity beautifully—feel free to swap for milk or non-dairy if you prefer.
- Pure Vanilla Extract: Just a touch elevates the flavors, softening the tartness with warmth and aroma.
- Cinnamon: It’s subtle but adds depth and a surprising hint of complexity that pairs amazingly with lemon and raspberry.
- Ice Cubes: The key to that refreshing frozen texture; packing enough ice makes it feel like a natural slush rather than a blended juice.
Make It Your Way
My favorite part about this Frozen Raspberry Lemonade Recipe is how easy it is to tailor to your taste. I sometimes swap the half and half for coconut milk for a tropical twist or add a splash of sparkling water to make it fizzy. You do you!
- Variation: One summer, I added a handful of fresh mint leaves right in the blender and it turned into this amazing mint-berry lemonade that was a huge hit. Feel free to experiment with herbs or even add a scoop of protein powder for a fun twist.
Step-by-Step: How I Make Frozen Raspberry Lemonade Recipe
Step 1: Layer Your Ingredients in the Blender
I like to add the raspberries first, then the frozen lemonade, half and half, vanilla, and cinnamon. Placing the ice cubes on top makes blending smoother. If you're using frozen raspberries, you can switch up the order a bit since they help chill the drink. This layering helps everything blend evenly and quickly.
Step 2: Blend Until Smooth and Slushy
Give it a good whirl until the ice crushes completely and the mixture is creamy and thick. Depending on your blender’s power, this typically takes about 30–45 seconds. If it’s too thick, add a splash more half and half; if too thin, toss in a few more ice cubes. Pay attention to texture here — it’s how you make it just right.
Step 3: Pour, Garnish, and Enjoy!
Pour your frozen raspberry lemonade into tall glasses and garnish with fresh mint, lemon slices, or a few raspberries to make it look pretty and fresh. Serve with a straw, and prepare for compliments.
Top Tip
Over the years, I've learned a few tricks that really elevate this Frozen Raspberry Lemonade Recipe, so you don’t end up with a watery or overly icy drink. These tips have saved my summer afternoons more than once!
- Adjust Ice to Cream Ratio: Start with 4½ cups of ice but don’t hesitate to add more or less depending on your blender’s power and how thick you want it.
- Use Fresh Vanilla: Pure vanilla extract adds a mellow sweetness that balances the tartness — don’t skip it!
- Blend in Bursts: Pulse the blender rather than just running it on one speed to get a good crushed ice texture.
- Watch the Cinnamon: A little goes a long way—too much can overpower the refreshing flavors.
How to Serve Frozen Raspberry Lemonade Recipe
Garnishes
I love topping my frozen raspberry lemonade with a sprig of fresh mint and a thin lemon wheel nestled on the rim—it adds a fancy touch but is so simple. Sometimes I toss in extra fresh raspberries right into the drink for texture and a pop of freshness.
Side Dishes
This drink pairs beautifully with light, summery snacks like cucumber sandwiches, grilled chicken skewers, or even a fresh fruit salad. It also holds its own alongside soft cheeses and crackers for a casual gathering.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party, I sometimes serve the frozen raspberry lemonade in mason jars with paper straws and a small label tied with twine. You could also freeze lemon slices into ice cubes to add a stylish touch as the ice melts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (though you probably won’t), store them in a sealed container in the fridge. Keep in mind the texture will soften as the ice melts, so it’s best enjoyed within a few hours.
Freezing
I’ve tried freezing the blended lemonade in popsicle molds for a fun alternative treat. It freezes well but won’t have the same creamy texture once thawed, so I recommend enjoying this drink fresh when possible.
Reheating
This is one drink you don’t want to reheat! If you do have leftovers that have melted, give it a quick blend with a few ice cubes to bring back the frosty texture.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Absolutely! Using frozen raspberries is actually a great choice because they help keep the drink cold and thick without needing extra ice. Just adjust the ice quantity accordingly.
You can substitute half and half with whole milk for a lighter version or use coconut milk or almond milk for a dairy-free option. The creaminess might be a bit less but still delicious.
Try using less frozen lemonade or opt for a low-sugar lemonade mix. You can also skip or reduce the vanilla extract slightly to cut back on sweetness.
I recommend making the frozen raspberry lemonade fresh right before serving to maintain its icy, creamy texture. However, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time and blend them just before guests arrive.
Final Thoughts
This Frozen Raspberry Lemonade Recipe feels like a little celebration in a glass every time I make it. It’s simple but impressive, refreshing but indulgent. If you’re looking for a drink to brighten your day or impress friends at your next get-together, this one’s a winner. Give it a go—you might just find your new summer favorite!
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Frozen Raspberry Lemonade Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 5 servings
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing Frozen Raspberry Lemonade blending sweet raspberries with creamy half and half and zesty lemonade, perfect for a cool summer treat.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1½ cups fresh or frozen raspberries
- ½ 12 ounce can frozen lemonade
- 1 cup half and half
- 2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
- 4½ cups ice cubes
Optional Garnish
- Fresh mint leaves
- Lemon slices
- Additional fresh raspberries
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Place raspberries, frozen lemonade, half and half, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and ice cubes in a blender, adding ingredients in this order for easier blending unless using frozen raspberries.
- Blend: Blend the mixture until the ice and raspberries are smooth and the drink reaches your desired consistency.
- Serve and Garnish: Pour the blended mixture into glasses and garnish with fresh mint leaves, lemon slices, and additional raspberries if desired. Serve with a straw and enjoy.
Notes
- Adjust the number of ice cubes or amount of half and half to find your preferred thickness.
- Using frozen raspberries can eliminate the need for as much ice.
- The cinnamon is subtle but adds a nice warmth; feel free to omit if preferred.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute half and half with coconut cream or a plant-based milk.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 35 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
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