Copycat Milo’s Strawberry Lemonade Recipe

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I’ve often found myself wondering if i could recreate this iconic flavor at home? Well, good news— I’m spilling the tea (or lemonade, in this case) on how to whip up a homemade version of Milo’s Strawberry Lemonade.

How to make Milo’s Strawberry Lemonade

Milo’s Strawberry Lemonade is a beverage offered by Milo’s Tea Company, known for its refreshing lemonade drinks. This particular flavor combines the tangy zest of lemonade with the sweet, fruity taste of strawberries, creating a balanced and flavorful drink.

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh strawberries (or frozen, if fresh isn’t available)
• 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4–6 lemons)
• ½ cup pure cane sugar (adjust to taste)
• 4 cups filtered water (divided – 2 for blending and 2 for dilution)
• Ice (for serving)
• Optional: Lemon slices and strawberry halves (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Strawberries

1. Wash and hull the strawberries (remove the green tops).
2. If using frozen strawberries, let them thaw slightly before blending.

2. Blend the Strawberry Mixture

1. In a blender, combine the strawberries with 2 cups of water and blend until smooth.
2. If you prefer a smoother texture, strain the mixture with a fine mesh sieve to remove the pulp.

3. Juice the Lemons

1. Roll the lemons on a hard surface before cutting them to make them easier to juice.
2. Squeeze the lemons and measure out 1 cup of juice.

4. Combine Ingredients

1. In a large pitcher, mix the strawberry purée, lemon juice, and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
2. Add the remaining 2 cups of water to dilute the mixture. Taste and adjust — add a bit more sugar for sweetness or water for less intensity.

5. Chill and Serve

1. Chill the lemonade in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
2. Serve over ice and garnish with fresh lemon slices and strawberry halves for an extra touch of elegance.

Tips for the Best Strawberry Lemonade

• Use Fresh Ingredients: For the brightest flavor, opt for fresh strawberries and lemons whenever possible. However, frozen strawberries work great when fresh aren’t in season!
• Adjust Sweetness: Milo’s Strawberry Lemonade is known for its perfect sweetness. If you prefer yours sweeter, add more pure cane sugar or a drizzle of honey.
• Make Ahead: Want to save time? You can prepare the lemonade up to a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and stir before serving.
• Add a Twist: For a fun variation, try adding fresh mint leaves to the pitcher or a splash of sparkling water to make it fizzy!
• Presentation Matters: Serve your homemade Milo’s Strawberry Lemonade in clear glasses to showcase its vibrant color. Top with a slice of lemon or a fresh strawberry to wow your guests.

Ingredients Substitutes

Creating a homemade version of a popular beverage like Milo’s Strawberry Lemonade can be fun and rewarding.

Lemon Juice

Original: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is traditionally used for a bright, tangy flavor.

Substitutes:

• Lime Juice: Offers a slightly different citrus profile but is equally refreshing.
• Citric Acid Solution: If you have citric acid, dissolve a small amount in water to mimic lemon juice’s acidity.

Strawberry Flavoring

Original: Fresh strawberry puree or juice is ideal.

Substitutes:

• Frozen Strawberries: Thaw and blend them to create a puree.
• Strawberry Jam or Preserves: Mix with water to thin to a juice consistency. This will add sweetness, so adjust the sugar accordingly.
• Strawberry Syrup: Use in moderation and reduce added sugar if necessary.

Sweetener

Original: Granulated sugar brings the sweetness expected in a traditional lemonade.

Substitutes:

• Honey or Agave Nectar: These can add a slightly different sweetness profile and may blend better in warm water.
• Stevia or Monk Fruit Sweetener: Great for a low-calorie alternative. Be mindful of the conversion rate, as these are often sweeter than sugar.
• Maple Syrup: Imparts a unique flavor and can be used in place of sugar.

Water

Original: Plain water is used to dilute the mixture to taste.

Substitutes:

• Sparkling Water: Adds fizz to the drink for an exciting twist.
• Coconut Water: Adds a subtle tropical note and natural sweetness.

Final Thoughts

By following this recipe, you can enjoy the same refreshing taste of Milo’s Strawberry Lemonade whenever you crave it—no grocery trip required. Perfect for summer afternoons, celebrations, or just an indulgent treat, this homemade version is bound to become a household favorite.