Lychee Lemonade Twist Mocktail Recipe
This refreshing mocktail combines sweet lychee with tangy lemonade for a perfect balance of flavors. The recipe is simple to prepare and requires only a few fresh ingredients.
Equipment
- Blender or food processor - for pureeing the lychee fruit
- Cocktail shaker - to mix ingredients (a mason jar with lid works too)
- Fine-mesh strainer - to remove pulp if desired
- Pitcher - for serving multiple drinks
- Tall glasses - for serving individual portions
- Ice cube tray - for making regular or lychee ice cubes
- Citrus juicer: To extract fresh lemon juice.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient amounts.
- Knife and cutting board - for preparing fruit garnishes
Ingredients
For 4 servings:
- 1 cup fresh lychee fruit peeled and pitted (or canned lychees, drained)
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice about 6-8 lemons
- ½ cup simple syrup equal parts sugar and water, boiled until dissolved
- 3 cups cold water or sparkling water
- Ice cubes
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
- Lemon slices for garnish
Optional: 2 tablespoons honey for added sweetness
Optional: ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract for depth of flavor
The quality of lemons makes a big difference. Choose bright, firm lemons for the best juice. Fresh lychees work best, but canned lychees in syrup are a good substitute.
Instructions
- Prepare the lychee puree: Remove the shells and seeds from fresh lychees. Place the peeled lychees in a blender and puree until smooth. If using canned lychees, drain the syrup first.
- Make fresh lemonade: Squeeze lemons to collect 1 cup of juice. Mix with simple syrup and water in a pitcher. Stir well.
- Combine the flavors: Add the lychee puree to the lemonade mixture. Stir thoroughly to blend. For a smoother drink, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer.
- Chill the mocktail: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors combine.
- Serve: Fill glasses with ice cubes. Pour the lychee lemonade mixture over ice. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and lemon slices.
- Optional finishing touch: For a fizzy version, replace still water with sparkling water just before serving.
Notes
This mocktail can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance. Store in the refrigerator in a sealed container. Add ice and garnishes just before serving.
For a stronger lychee flavor, add a splash of lychee juice or syrup. This is especially helpful when using fresh lychees that aren't very sweet.
For a party variation, freeze some lychee puree in ice cube trays and use these special ice cubes in the drinks. They look pretty and add more flavor as they melt.
The mocktail pairs well with spicy Asian dishes or light summer meals. It's perfect for baby showers, summer parties, or as a refreshing non-alcoholic option at any gathering.
Children typically enjoy this sweet-tart drink, but you may want to reduce the lemon juice slightly for younger palates.