Description
Cool down on a hot day with this vibrant and refreshing Summer Strawberry Apple Punch—a fruity, crowd-pleasing drink made with fresh strawberries, crisp apple juice, citrusy lemon, and bubbly sparkling water. Naturally sweet and hydrating, this no-cook punch is the ultimate beverage for BBQs, picnics, potlucks, or any outdoor gathering. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, kid-friendly, and makes a gorgeous addition to any summer drink table. Whether you’re hosting a family event or relaxing on the patio, this punch brings flavor and freshness to every glass. Serve it over ice with fresh fruit slices for a beautiful, thirst-quenching treat!
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 medium apples, thinly sliced (Honeycrisp or Fuji recommended for sweetness)
- 1 cup 100% pure apple juice
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
- 2 cups sparkling water (or lemon-lime soda for extra sweetness)
- 1/2 teaspoon grated lemon zest (optional, for extra brightness)
- Ice cubes, as needed
- Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh mint leaves
- Lemon or lime slices
- Additional strawberries and apple slices
Instructions
Step 1: Wash and Prep the Fruit
Rinse the strawberries and apples thoroughly under cold water. Hull the strawberries and slice them into thin rounds. Core and thinly slice the apples. You can leave the skin on for added fiber and color.
Step 2: Mix the Juice Base
In a large pitcher, combine the apple juice, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and honey. Stir well until the honey is fully dissolved. Add the grated lemon zest for an extra burst of citrus if you like.
Step 3: Add the Fruit
Add the sliced strawberries and apples to the pitcher. Gently stir the mixture to help the fruit soak up the flavors. Refrigerate for at least 30–45 minutes to let the flavors meld and intensify.
Step 4: Add the Sparkle
Just before serving, add the sparkling water (or lemon-lime soda for a sweeter version). Gently stir to combine. The bubbles bring a refreshing fizz to the punch.
Step 5: Serve with Style
Add ice cubes to serving glasses or directly into the pitcher. Pour the punch over the ice and garnish each glass with a sprig of fresh mint or a slice of lemon. Serve immediately while it’s cold and bubbly.
Notes
- Although this is a no-cook recipe, it’s crucial to let the fruit sit in the juice for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to blend naturally and gives the fruit time to soak in the sweetness of the juice.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Beverages / Drinks / Summer Punch
- Method: No-Cook / Mixing
- Cuisine: American / Summer Party
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approx.)
- Calories: Calories: 85
- Sugar: 17g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Strawberry apple punch, summer drink recipe, non-alcoholic punch, fruit punch, refreshing summer beverages, healthy party drinks, strawberry punch, apple lemonade, no-cook summer recipe, fruity drinks for BBQ