Sharp lemonade gets softened with ripe pear and a little cream until it's smooth as velvet.
Prep15 min
Cook0 min
Total15 min
Serves4
LevelEasy
What makes it special
Fresh lemon juice
Granulated sugar
Heavy cream
Optional fresh mint leaves
I'm not always in the mood for the full pucker of classic lemonade. Blending in a couple of ripe pears takes the edge off, and a splash of cream turns it into something smooth and almost dessert-like, but still very refreshing.
Why you'll like it
Balanced: tangy lemon and mellow pear meet in the middle.
Smooth: the cream gives it a soft, velvety feel.
Flexible: serve it still, sparkling or blended into a slush.
A few tips
Ripe pears only. If the neck of the pear gives a little when pressed, it's ready.
Sweeten slowly. Your lemons and pears decide how much sugar you need. Honey or agave work too.
Chill it. Thirty minutes in the fridge lets the flavors come together.
Variations
Sparkling: top each glass with soda water.
Herby: chill the pitcher with a sprig of basil, thyme or rosemary.
Slushy: blend with a big handful of ice.
Plant-based: swap the cream for coconut milk.
Serving ideas
Clear glasses show off its pretty, pale color. A sugared rim makes it feel like a party, and it's lovely next to shortbread, fruit skewers or a summer salad.
I also freeze leftovers in ice cube trays. The cubes are great in iced tea or sparkling water because they flavor the drink instead of watering it down.
Fresh lemon juice and blended ripe pears with a splash of cream make a smooth, gently sweet lemonade. Serve still or sparkling over ice.
Drinks Easy American
Prep
15 min
Cook
0 min
Total
15 min
Servings
4
Ingredients 9 items
Tap to check off as you go
Pear Lemonade
Instructions 7 steps
1
Blend the chopped pears with 1/2 cup cold water until smooth. Strain for an extra silky drink.
2
In a large pitcher, whisk the lemon juice and sugar until dissolved.
3
Stir in the pear purée.
4
Gently stir in the cream or milk.
5
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
6
Pour over ice and top with sparkling water if you like.
7
Garnish with lemon slices, pear wedges and mint, and serve.
Nutrition per serving
Calories
120
Protein
1g
Carbs
28g
Fat
2g
Sugar
22g
Fiber
2g
Sodium
5mg
Questions, answered
What kind of pears work best?
Very ripe Bartlett or Anjou pears. Firm pears make the drink taste flat.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes. Use coconut milk or a creamy almond or oat milk instead of cream.
How long does it last?
Up to 2 days covered in the fridge. Stir well before pouring because the cream settles.
Recipe by
Denise
Home cook, baker and serial recipe tweaker. I share the dishes my family asks for most, written step by step so they turn out right in your kitchen too.
