I love how this hibiscus tea strawberry-lemonade refresher tastes bright, fruity, and naturally refreshing. I make it with simple ingredients that come together quickly, creating a beautiful drink that feels both nourishing and special. The balance of tart hibiscus, sweet strawberries, and fresh lemon makes this one of my favorite homemade beverages.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I enjoy this recipe because it is quick, simple, and made with real ingredients. I like that I can control the sweetness and tanginess instead of relying on overly sweet store-bought drinks. It’s also something I feel good serving to family and friends, and the vibrant color always makes it feel like a treat.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 cups water
2 hibiscus tea bags or 2 tablespoons dried hibiscus flowers
½ cup strawberries, fresh or frozen
¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
2 to 3 tablespoons maple syrup
optional garnishes: sliced strawberries, lemon slices, fresh mint
Directions
I begin by heating the water and steeping the hibiscus tea until it becomes deep red and fragrant. I let it cool completely before moving on. I then blend the strawberries with ¼ cup of the cooled hibiscus tea until smooth. If I want a smoother drink, I strain the mixture. In a pitcher, I combine the remaining hibiscus tea, strawberry puree, lemon juice, and maple syrup. I stir everything together, taste, and adjust the sweetness or tartness if needed. I pour it over ice and add garnishes when serving.
Servings And Timing
I usually make this recipe to serve 2 people. It takes about 5 minutes to prepare and 5 minutes to steep, for a total time of around 10 minutes, plus cooling time.
Variations
I sometimes replace part of the water with sparkling water for a lightly fizzy version. I also enjoy swapping strawberries for raspberries or peaches to create a different fruity twist while keeping the hibiscus and lemon base the same.
Storage/Reheating
I store this refresher in an airtight pitcher or bottle in the refrigerator. I find it stays fresh for up to 2 or 3 days. Since it’s meant to be enjoyed cold, I simply stir before serving and do not reheat it.
FAQs
Can I prepare this drink ahead of time?
I often make it ahead and keep it chilled in the refrigerator so it’s ready to pour when I want it.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
I like using frozen strawberries because they blend well and help keep the drink cold.
Is this drink suitable for kids?
I consider this refresher kid-friendly and a great homemade alternative to sugary drinks.
What can I use instead of maple syrup?
I sometimes use agave nectar, date syrup, or honey if I’m not keeping it vegan, adjusting the amount to taste.
Can I make this less tart?
I reduce the lemon juice slightly or add a bit more maple syrup until it tastes just right to me.
Conclusion
I keep this hibiscus tea strawberry-lemonade refresher in rotation because it’s easy, refreshing, and adaptable. It’s a drink I genuinely enjoy making and sharing, and it always feels like a simple way to add something special to the day.
This Hibiscus Tea Strawberry-Lemonade Refresher is a naturally vibrant and fruity drink made with steeped hibiscus tea, fresh strawberries, lemon juice, and maple syrup. It’s refreshing, easy to make, and perfect for any day you need a cooling pick-me-up.
Ingredients
2 cups water
2 hibiscus tea bags or 2 tablespoons dried hibiscus flowers
½ cup strawberries, fresh or frozen
¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
2 to 3 tablespoons maple syrup (adjust to taste)
Optional garnishes: sliced strawberries, lemon slices, fresh mint
Instructions
Heat 2 cups of water until near boiling, then steep hibiscus tea for 5 minutes until deep red and fragrant.
Let the tea cool completely.
Blend strawberries with ¼ cup of the cooled hibiscus tea until smooth. Strain if a smoother texture is desired.
In a pitcher, combine remaining hibiscus tea, strawberry purée, lemon juice, and maple syrup. Stir well.
Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness as needed.
Serve over ice and garnish with fresh strawberries, lemon slices, or mint if desired.
Notes
Use frozen strawberries for extra chill and convenience.
Adjust sweetness with more or less maple syrup, or use agave, honey, or date syrup.
Add sparkling water for a fizzy version.
Swap strawberries for raspberries or peaches for variation.
Best served cold and can be made ahead and stored for 2–3 days.
