Brown Sugar Lemonade

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Brown Sugar Lemonade is a twist on the classic drink, made with fresh lemon juice, and a rich brown sugar simple syrup. This easy recipe is naturally vegan, perfectly sweet-tart, and great for summer sipping.

A pitcher of brown sugar lemonade surrounded by fresh lemons.

An argument for brown sugar lemonade: it's better than regular lemonade.

Regular lemonade is sweet, tangy, sticky, delightful. Brown sugar lemonade? It's all that AND it's rich and bold, without being overpowering. The brown sugar adds something that elevates the lemonade.

Try this brown sugar lemonade once and you're not going back to the regular stuff.

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Why You'll Love This Brown Sugar Lemonade
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Step-By-Step Instructions
Serving Suggestions
FAQ & Expert Tips
Recipe Prayer
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A glass of brown sugar lemonade with a lemon slice on the rim.

Why You'll Love This Brown Sugar Lemonade

Vegan & refined sugar-free option - naturally plant-based, with the option to use coconut sugar instead of traditional brown sugar.
Adjust your sweetness - want a tarter lemonade with less sugar? Use less brown sugar syrup or add more lemon juice!
Sweet & tangy - The molasses flavor of brown sugar adds depth to the bright citrus.
Perfect for summer - A fun, unexpected twist on classic lemonade.
Easy to batch - Great for making ahead for BBQs, picnics & parties.

A top down view of a pitcher of brown sugar lemonade.

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

Lemons: I highly recommend buying lemons and juicing them yourself. Fresh juice is brighter and significantly more flavorful than bottled.
Brown Sugar Simple Syrup: this is my brown sugar simple syrup recipe. It takes 5 minutes to make and is delightful!
Water
Ice

Pro Tip: Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor. Bottled lemon juice will work in a pinch but won't taste as vibrant.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Step 1. Juice the lemons until you achieve 1 cup of lemon juice.

Brown sugar lemonade step 1 - juice the lemons.

Step 2. Add a cup or two of ice to a large pitcher or bowl. Strain the lemon juice into the pitcher.

Brown sugar lemonade step 2 - add ice and strain the lemon juice into the pitcher.

Step 3. Add the brown sugar simple syrup and mix to combine.

Brown sugar lemonade step 3 - stir in the brown sugar simple syrup

Step 4. Add the water. Top with the lemons for garnish if using.

Brown sugar lemonade step 4 - stir in the water.

Pro Tip: For great flavor, chill the lemonade for 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

Serving Suggestions

Serve over ice with lemon slices or fresh mint.

Ideal for cookouts, brunch, or a relaxing afternoon on the porch.

A glass of brown sugar lemonade being poured.

Pro Tip: Make it sparkling by swapping still water for sparkling mineral water or club soda.

FAQ & Expert Tips

Can I use regular sugar instead of brown sugar?

You can, but the flavor will be more neutral-brown sugar adds a rich, caramel-like note.

How long does brown sugar lemonade last in the fridge?

It stays fresh for up to 4 days in an airtight container.

Can I make this with limes instead?

Yes! Swap lemon juice for lime juice for a brown sugar limeade variation.

I actually love making this with half lemons half limes. The depth of flavor is unmatched.

Recipe Prayer

Thank you God for this refreshing drink, allow it to cool our bodies in the summer heat. Amen.

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