When it comes to summertime drinks, it’s hard to beat the classic combination of strawberries and lemonade. But what if you could bottle up that refreshing flavor with a serious kick? Enter: Strawberry Lemonade Moonshine.

This fruity, sweet-tart infusion is the perfect sipper for backyard BBQs, pool days, or anytime you want to taste a little bit of sunshine — with a little extra punch.

And don’t worry — making it is way easier than you think.

Let’s get into it!

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 2 cups fresh lemon juice (about 8–10 lemons)
• 1 cup simple syrup (1 cup water + 1 cup sugar)
• 2 cups water
• 2 cups grain alcohol (Everclear 190 proof or similar)
• 1 cup vodka (optional, for smoother taste)
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• Optional: extra strawberries and lemon slices for garnish

Tip: Use ripe, in-season strawberries for the best flavor. If using bottled lemon juice, go for an organic brand with no preservatives.

Equipment

• Large saucepan
• Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
• Large pitcher or mixing bowl
• Mason jars or glass bottles for storage

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Strawberry Lemon Syrup

In a saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries, lemon juice, lemon zest, and water.
Bring to a light simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, until the strawberries soften and the flavors combine.

Step 2: Sweeten It Up

Add your simple syrup to the pot and stir well.

(If you haven’t made the syrup yet, just dissolve 1 cup of sugar into 1 cup of hot water.)

Simmer for another 5 minutes, then remove from heat.

Step 3: Strain the Mixture

Let the mixture cool slightly, then pour it through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a large pitcher or bowl.

Press gently on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the leftover fruit pulp (or save it for a boozy jam if you’re feeling thrifty).

Step 4: Add the Booze

Once the strained mixture is completely cool, stir in the grain alcohol and vodka.
Mix thoroughly to combine.

Note: You can skip the vodka and use all grain alcohol if you want it stronger — or adjust ratios to taste.

Step 5: Bottle and Chill

Pour your finished Strawberry Lemonade Moonshine into clean mason jars or bottles. Seal tightly.

Let it chill in the fridge for at least 24 hours before drinking to let the flavors meld.

(But honestly? It’ll be delicious even sooner.)

Storing and Serving

• Refrigeration: Keep refrigerated. It should stay fresh for up to 3 months.
• Flavor Improves with Time: The longer it sits (within reason), the smoother it gets.
• Serving Ideas: Serve it straight over ice, mix with sparkling water for a boozy spritzer, or blend into frozen cocktails.

Final Thoughts

Strawberry Lemonade Moonshine is pure summer in a jar.
It’s refreshing, bright, and just sweet enough — with a sneaky kick that’ll keep the party going.

Whether you’re sipping it at a BBQ, gifting it to friends, or just treating yourself after a long week, this is one moonshine recipe you’ll want to keep in rotation.

Cheers!