Low FODMAP Chocolate Vanilla Lemonade
This drink sounds like it shouldn't work — and then it absolutely does. Bright, tart lemon juice meets a rich homemade cocoa-vanilla syrup in a way that's genuinely refreshing and a little unexpected. The syrup comes together in just a few minutes on the stovetop, whisking cocoa powder and maple syrup with water and a touch of vanilla until smooth and glossy. Maple syrup keeps things sweet without relying on high-fructose ingredients that can cause trouble for sensitive guts, and the cocoa is portioned carefully to stay within the Monash-tested threshold per serving. Fresh-squeezed lemon juice does all the heavy lifting on brightness, so there's no need for any store-bought lemonade concentrate with mystery additives. It makes four servings, so it's perfect for a small gathering or a pitcher you can keep in the fridge for a couple of days. Just give each glass a quick stir before you drink — the syrup settles a little, which honestly makes it even more fun to watch swirl together.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
For the chocolate-vanilla syrup
- ½ cup cocoa powder
- ½ cup maple syrup
- ½ cup water
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 pinch salt
For the lemonade
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice (from about 6–7 lemons)
- 3 cups cold water
For serving
- ice, for serving
- lemon slices, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Combine the cocoa powder, maple syrup, 1/2 cup water, vanilla extract, and salt in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk constantly until the cocoa is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth and just beginning to simmer, about 3–4 minutes.
- 2
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the chocolate-vanilla syrup cool for 15 minutes, until it is no longer steaming and has thickened slightly.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!