Delicious Watermelon Lemonade Concentrate Recipe and Easy Canning Guide

Watermelon lemonade is a refreshing treat that combines the sweetness of watermelon with the tang of fresh lemons. Making your own watermelon lemonade concentrate at home lets you enjoy this delicious drink anytime, while canning preserves its fresh flavor for months. This guide walks you through a simple recipe and an easy canning process so you can stock your pantry with homemade watermelon lemonade concentrate.

Homemade watermelon lemonade concentrate in a glass jar

Ingredients for Watermelon Lemonade Concentrate

To make a batch of watermelon lemonade concentrate, you will need:

• 6 cups of fresh watermelon chunks (seedless or seeds removed)

• 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 6-8 lemons)

• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar

• 1 cup water

  
  

Using ripe, juicy watermelon is key to getting the best flavor. The lemon juice adds a bright tartness that balances the sweetness of the watermelon and sugar.

How to Prepare the Watermelon Lemonade Concentrate

Follow these steps to make the concentrate:

1. Puree the watermelon

   Place the watermelon chunks in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth. Strain the puree through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove pulp and seeds, collecting the juice in a large bowl.

   
   

2. Combine lemon juice and sugar

   In a saucepan, mix the lemon juice, sugar, and water. Heat gently over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Do not boil.

   
   

3. Mix watermelon juice with lemon syrup

   Remove the syrup from heat and let it cool slightly. Stir in the strained watermelon juice until well combined.

   
   

4. Taste and adjust

   Taste the concentrate. If it’s too tart, add a little more sugar dissolved in warm water. If too sweet, add a splash of lemon juice.

   
   

This concentrate is strong and meant to be diluted with water or sparkling water before serving. A good ratio is 1 part concentrate to 3 parts water.

Equipment Needed for Canning Lemonade Concentrate

Before starting the canning process, gather these items:

• Canning jars with lids and bands (pint or quart size)

• Large pot or water bath canner

• Jar lifter and funnel

• Clean towels

• Ladle

  
  

Sterilizing jars and lids are essential to prevent spoilage and ensure safe preservation.

Step-by-Step Guide to Canning Watermelon Lemonade Concentrate

Canning lemonade concentrate preserves its fresh taste and lets you enjoy it year-round. Here’s how to do it safely:

1. Sterilize jars and lids

   Wash jars and lids in hot soapy water. Place jars in boiling water for 10 minutes to sterilize. Keep jars hot until ready to fill.

   
   

2. Fill jars with concentrate

   Using a funnel, pour the warm watermelon lemonade concentrate into the hot jars, leaving about ½ inch of headspace at the top.

   
   

3. Remove air bubbles

   Slide a non-metallic spatula or chopstick around the inside of the jar to release trapped air bubbles.

   
   

4. Wipe rims and seal

   Wipe the jar rims with a clean damp cloth to remove any residue. Place the lids on top and screw on the bands until fingertip tight.

   
   

5. Process jars in boiling water bath

   Place filled jars in a water bath canner or large pot with enough boiling water to cover jars by at least 1 inch. Boil for 10 minutes (adjust time if you are at high altitude).

   
   

6. Cool and store

   Remove jars with a jar lifter and place on a towel to cool undisturbed for 12-24 hours. Check seals by pressing the center of each lid. If sealed properly, the lid will not flex up and down.

   
   

Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to 12 months. Refrigerate after opening.

Tips for Best Results with Canning Lemonade

• Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.

• Keep the concentrate warm but not boiling when filling jars to avoid cracking.

• Label jars with the date and contents.

• If a jar does not seal, refrigerate and use within 1-2 weeks.

• Always follow safe canning guidelines from trusted sources like the USDA or your local extension office.

  
  

How to Serve Watermelon Lemonade from Concentrate

To enjoy your canned watermelon lemonade concentrate:

• Mix ¼ cup concentrate with ¾ cup cold water or sparkling water.

• Add ice cubes and garnish with lemon slices or fresh mint.

• For a fun twist, add a splash of vodka or rum for a refreshing summer cocktail.

  
  

  My Linktree and Resources

  
  

  To help you get started, I’ve compiled all my favorite canning supplies and other homestead kitchen supplies in one place. Visit my Linktree here for easy access to trusted products and guides.