Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Pineapple Base Preparation
- Peel and chop one ripe pineapple into chunks. In a large pot, combine the pineapple with 4 cups of water and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce heat to low and allow to simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the pineapple is soft and aromatic.
- Stir occasionally to help release the flavor.
Straining Liquid
- Remove the pot from heat and let the mixture cool slightly for about 10 minutes.
- Using a fine-mesh strainer, pour the mixture into a large bowl, pressing down on the pulp to extract as much liquid as possible.
Making Lemon Simple Syrup
- In a separate saucepan, combine 4 cups of water with an equal amount of granulated sugar over medium heat.
- Stir gently until the sugar fully dissolves, about 3-5 minutes, ensuring it doesn’t boil.
- Remove from heat and let the syrup cool to room temperature.
Combining Ingredients
- In a large pitcher, combine the pineapple-infused water, cooled lemon simple syrup, and freshly squeezed juice from about 8-10 lemons.
- Stir in the cranberry juice cocktail, adjusting to taste.
Flavor Adjustment
- Taste the mixture and adjust the sweetness with lemon juice or extra simple syrup.
Chilling
- Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Serving
- Fill glasses with ice cubes, pour the chilled lemonade over the ice, and garnish each glass with lemon slices, pineapple wedges, and fresh mint sprigs.
Nutrition
Notes
For a bubbly drink, add a splash of club soda just before serving. Adjust sweetness according to taste preferences.
