Blueberry Lemonade Recipe (Naturally Sweetened)

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This refreshing blueberry lemonade recipe is naturally sweetened and perfect for summer. Blending the blueberries keeps this recipe quick, fresh, and full of natural berry flavor — no cooking required.

If you haven’t tried blueberry lemonade before, you’re in for a treat. There’s something timeless and nostalgic about homemade lemonade on a hot summer day — and when you swirl in sweet blueberries?

Irresistible.

This easy recipe is one of my favorites to serve to a crowd. It’s perfect for backyard barbecues, Sunday lounging, or just cooling off after a long walk in the heat.

It looks beautiful in a pitcher, tastes even better than it looks, and it’s made with simple, whole ingredients. And if that’s not enough, blueberries are good for you, too — packed with antioxidants and nutrients like vitamins C and K.

One of my favorite ways to serve is in chilled mason jars filled with ice, lemon slices, and a few extra blueberries. It just feels like summer.

Blueberry lemonade in a small mason jar topped with fresh blueberries, lemon slices, and rimmed with sugar.

Why this recipe works

Naturally sweetened: Maple syrup and coconut sugar are less refined than white sugar and bring a deep, balanced flavor.
Simple ingredients: Just a handful of pantry basics and fresh produce.
Crowd-pleaser: Makes a pitcher and can be easily doubled or tripled.
Flexible: Adjust sweetness, tartness, or make it sparkling.

If you love fruity lemonade twists, you’ll love our Strawberry Hibiscus Lemonade. Looking for something creamy and cool? Try our Acai Smoothie — a berry-packed blend that’s perfect any time of day.

What ingredients you’ll need

Here’s everything you need to make this blueberry lemonade from scratch. Most of it you probably already have on hand:

Blueberries (fresh or frozen)
Lemons (for fresh-squeezed juice)
Maple syrup or maple and coconut sugar if you prefer
Water
Sea salt (optional)
Optional toppings: Fresh mint, lemon slices, and a few extra blueberries to make it pretty

How to make this recipe (step-by-step)

In a blender, add water, maple syrup, and the blueberries. Blend on medium-high until completely smooth.

If you prefer a smoother lemonade, strain the blueberry mixture through a fine mesh sieve or nut milk bag to remove the pulp.

In a large pitcher or glass, add the blueberry mixture, lemon juice, and the remaining water. Stir well.

Add more lemon juice for tartness or more sweetener if desired. Give it a good stir.

Pour over ice and top with fresh mint, lemon slices, and a few extra blueberries. A tiny pinch of sea salt in each glass is optional, but it really brings out the flavor.

In the kitchen tips

Add a pinch of sea salt . It makes the lemons brighter and the blueberries sweeter.
Fresh lemon juice > bottled. It’s worth it — you’ll taste the difference.
Taste as you go. Adjust tartness and sweetness to your liking.
Mint: Rub mint between your palms to release the oils before garnishing.
Extra flavor? Muddle a few blueberries or mint leaves in the bottom of your glass before pouring. Just press gently with a spoon.
Sweetener: Start with the recommended amount, then adjust to taste — blueberry sweetness varies depending on the batch. Give it a stir and a quick sip before serving to make it just right.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of ground ginger or a thin slice of fresh ginger to the blender with the blueberries.
Popsicles: Freeze into popsicle molds for a fun summer treat!

Substitutions & additions

No maple syrup? Use honey (if you’re not vegan), agave, or coconut sugar.
Why the sugar blend? Coconut sugar is less sweet, so I use a bit more to balance flavor — and it brings a rich, caramel-like note that’s perfect here.
Make it fizzy. Swap some water for sparkling water right before serving.
More tart or less sweet? Add extra lemon juice, or back off the sweetener slightly and taste as you go.
Berry Variations: You can swap in raspberries, blackberries, or a mix of whatever berries you have on hand. For a mixed berry lemonade, just blend them together.

Storage

Fridge: Store in a covered pitcher for up to 3 days.
Before serving: Give it a good stir — some settling is normal.

FAQ

Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh blueberries?

Yes! They work perfectly and help chill the drink. You just may need to thaw them beforehand if you're not using a high-speed blender.

What’s the best way to serve it for a party or crowd?

Serve in a big pitcher or drink dispenser. Right before guests arrive, add ice, lemon slices, mint, and a handful of extra berries.

Do I need to strain out the blueberry skins/pulp?

Totally up to you. Straining gives a smooth, clean look. Leaving it in gives a more rustic vibe.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Just chill it in the fridge and give it a stir before serving.

Can I make this with honey?

Absolutely. Just note that it won’t be vegan if that’s a concern.

How can I make this more tart, less sweet, or more fruity?

Add more lemon juice for tartness, more blueberries for flavor, or reduce the sweeteners to taste.

Can I make it sparkling?

Yes! Replace 1–2 cups of the water with sparkling water or club soda for a fizzy version.

Can I use Meyer lemons instead of regular lemons?

Yes, Meyer lemons work, but they’ll make the lemonade a bit softer and less tangy, as they're sweeter and less acidic. I use regular lemons for a classic flavor, but if you have Meyers, feel free to experiment.

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