Citric Acid Free Sparkling Grape Mint Lemonade
Fresh lemon juice squeezed right at home is the secret weapon here — it delivers that bright, tart flavor without the processed citric acid that sneaks into so many bottled drinks and store-bought lemonades. The grape juice adds a gorgeous deep color and a natural sweetness that plays beautifully against the lemon, while a quick homemade mint syrup made with maple syrup brings an herby, floral note you just can't get from a packet. Everything in this glass is whole, recognizable, and free from the additives that make so many fizzy drinks off-limits. The sparkling water gets folded in gently at the end so you keep every last bubble, making this feel genuinely festive and refreshing. It comes together in well under half an hour and looks stunning poured over ice with a sprig of mint and a lemon wheel on the rim. Whether you're hosting a summer gathering or just want something special on a Tuesday afternoon, this pitcher drink delivers serious wow factor with zero compromise.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
For the mint syrup
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- ¼ cup water
- ½ cup fresh mint leaves, loosely packed
For the lemonade
- ¾ cup fresh lemon juice (from about 4–5 lemons)
- 1 cup 100% red sugar or purple grape juice, no added sugar
- 3 cups sparkling water, chilled
- 2 cups ice
For serving
- 4 fresh mint sprigs (optional)
- 4 lemon slices (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Combine the maple syrup and water in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring until the maple syrup fully dissolves, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat, add the mint leaves, and let steep for 15 minutes until the syrup is fragrant and pale green.
- 2
Pour the mint syrup through a fine-mesh strainer into a small bowl or measuring cup, pressing the mint leaves gently to extract the liquid. Discard the spent mint.
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