Peach Thyme Lemonade is a refreshing mocktail that combines sweet peaches with aromatic thyme and tangy lemon. This easy-to-make drink offers a perfect balance of flavors that works well for summer gatherings, brunches, or anytime you want a special non-alcoholic beverage.
The recipe takes only minutes to prepare and can be made ahead for parties. The combination might sound unusual, but the herbal notes from the thyme complement the sweetness of ripe peaches wonderfully.
Kids and adults alike enjoy this drink, and it can be dressed up with fresh peach slices and thyme sprigs for an elegant presentation. The recipe can also be doubled or tripled without any adjustments to the proportions.
Peach Thyme Lemonade Mocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Blender or food processor
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Muddler or wooden spoon
- Pitcher (at least 1-quart capacity)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Citrus juicer or reamer
- Stirring spoon
- Tall glasses for serving
Ingredients
- 3 ripe peaches pitted and chopped
- 6-8 fresh thyme sprigs plus more for garnish
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice about 6-8 lemons
- 1/2 cup honey or simple syrup
- 4 cups cold water
- 1 cup ice cubes plus extra for serving
- Lemon slices for garnish
Simple Syrup (if not using honey):
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
Choose ripe, fragrant peaches for the best flavor. Yellow or white peaches both work well. Fresh thyme is preferred, but 1 tablespoon dried thyme can substitute in a pinch.
Instructions
Prepare the peaches:
- Wash, pit and chop the peaches. No need to peel them.
Make the peach puree:
- Blend the chopped peaches until smooth. Strain through a fine mesh strainer into a pitcher to remove any solids.
Prepare the thyme:
- Reserve 3-4 sprigs for garnish. Take remaining sprigs and gently muddle them in the pitcher to release their flavor.
Add liquids:
- Pour in the lemon juice and honey/simple syrup. Stir until sweetener is completely dissolved.
Finish the mocktail:
- Add cold water and stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients. Add ice cubes to chill.
Serve:
- Pour into tall glasses filled with ice. Garnish each glass with a lemon slice and fresh thyme sprig.
Optional:
- For a sparkling version, replace half the water with sparkling water or club soda just before serving.
Notes
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Tasting Notes
Peach Thyme Lemonade Mocktail offers a bright and refreshing flavor profile. The sweet peach pairs perfectly with the tangy lemon, while thyme adds an unexpected herbal note.
The first sip delivers a burst of peach sweetness that gently fades into the citrus tang of fresh lemonade. This creates a balanced drink that isn’t too sweet or too sour.
Thyme provides a subtle earthy quality that lingers on the palate. This herbal finish elevates the mocktail beyond a simple fruit drink to something more sophisticated.
Flavor Profile:
- Primary:Â Sweet peach, tart lemon
- Secondary:Â Herbal thyme, honey notes
- Finish:Â Clean, refreshing with gentle herb lingering
The texture is light and crisp, especially when served over ice. Carbonated water adds a pleasant effervescence that makes each sip lively on the tongue.
This mocktail works well in all seasons but shines in summer when peaches are at their peak ripeness. The golden-orange hue makes it visually appealing for gatherings.
Food pairings include light appetizers, grilled chicken, or summer salads. The drink’s acidity cuts through richer foods while complementing lighter fare.
Substitutes
You can adjust the Peach Thyme Lemonade Mocktail recipe if you don’t have all the ingredients on hand. Here are some simple swaps that work well.
Fruit Options:
- Replace peaches with nectarines, apricots, or mangoes
- Use frozen peaches when fresh ones aren’t available
Herb Alternatives:
- Rosemary instead of thyme
- Basil or mint for a different flavor profile
- Skip herbs completely for a simpler drink
For a lower-sugar version, try using a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit. You can also reduce the amount of sweetener by half.
No lemons? Try using lime juice for a different tangy flavor. Bottled lemon juice works in a pinch, but fresh squeezed gives the best taste.
Sparkling water can replace still water for a bubbly version. Meanwhile, club soda or ginger ale add extra fizz and flavor.
To make a kid-friendly version, reduce the thyme and add more fruit. Children often prefer sweeter drinks with less herbal flavors.