This Peach Bourbon Lemonade is an easy, refreshing boozy lemonade that comes together in about 10 minutes. With just a few common ingredients you can make a bright, fruity pitcher for parties, brunches, or cookouts. Use fresh or frozen peaches depending on the season — both work well.
This drink is a favorite for gatherings because it’s simple and adaptable. There’s no need to make a separate simple syrup or heat the stove. Fresh lemon juice keeps the flavor bright, and peach schnapps with bourbon gives it a pleasant, fruity warmth. Garnish with peach and lemon slices and a sprig of thyme, or swap in mint or basil for a twist.
Ingredients
Below is an overview of what you’ll need. Exact amounts are in the printable recipe card further down.
- Fresh lemon juice, granulated sugar, and water — these make the base lemonade. Freshly squeezed lemon juice gives the best flavor, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch.
- Peach schnapps and bourbon — add the boozy element. Omit the alcohol for a family-friendly version, or substitute vodka, tequila, gin, or sparkling wine depending on preference.
- Peach slices, fresh thyme, and lemon slices — optional garnishes that make the drink look festive. Fresh mint or basil also pair nicely.
How to make peach bourbon lemonade
This cocktail takes minutes and requires only a pitcher and a stirrer. Follow these steps for the best results.
Juice your lemons
Start with real lemons for the brightest flavor. To extract more juice, warm each lemon briefly in the microwave (about 10 seconds) or roll them firmly between your hands before cutting. If you prefer a smoother lemonade, strain the juice through a fine mesh to remove pulp.
Make the lemonade
Combine the lemon juice, sugar, and water in a large pitcher and stir until the sugar is fully dissolved — this usually takes one to two minutes. Once the sugar is dissolved, add the peach schnapps and bourbon and stir to combine.
Add peaches, garnish, and serve
Stir in the peach slices. Fill glasses with ice, pour the lemonade, and garnish with thyme sprigs and lemon slices if desired. The herbal aroma balances the sweet, fruity flavors for a delightful drink.
What to serve with boozy lemonade
This peach bourbon lemonade pairs beautifully with a variety of cookout and party foods. Smoky or savory dishes like grilled potato salad and Mexican-style corn contrast nicely with the drink’s sweetness. It’s also great alongside grilled shrimp tacos, pineapple salsa, chicken sliders, grilled fruit salad, or summery desserts like fruit popsicles.
Storage
Store the lemonade in the refrigerator for up to 3 days if peaches are in the pitcher, or up to 7 days without the peaches. Without alcohol, the lemonade can also be frozen for longer storage.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. This recipe is ideal for making ahead because it doesn’t contain carbonation that would go flat. Prepare up to 3 days in advance; note that the peach slices will soften and begin to break down after a few days.
Tips and Suggestions
- For a strawberry version, swap peach schnapps for a berry liqueur and use strawberries or raspberries instead of peaches.
- Muddle a peach slice with fresh thyme to boost the herbal flavor before adding the lemonade.
- Mix citrus fruits — add a splash of lime or orange juice for extra complexity.
- Use frozen peach slices as both fruit and ice when you need to chill the drink quickly.
More summer recipes
- Spiked Blueberry Lemonade
- Homemade Lemon Ice Cream
- Healthy Chickpea Cucumber Salad
- Easy Lemon Cheesecake
- Tropical Green Smoothie
Boozy Peach Lemonade
Equipment
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1 Pitcher
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice, about 4 large lemons or 8 small lemons
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 5 cups water
- ¾ cup peach schnapps
- ½ cup bourbon
- 2 cups peach slices, fresh or frozen
- Fresh thyme and lemon slices, optional for garnish
Instructions
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In a large pitcher, stir together the fresh lemon juice, sugar, and water until the sugar is completely dissolved (about 1–2 minutes).
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Stir in the peach schnapps and bourbon.
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Add the peach slices, then serve over ice with thyme sprigs and lemon slices if desired.
Notes
- Refrigerate for up to 3 days with the peaches, or up to 7 days without them.
- This is a citrusy, peach-forward cocktail that scales easily for a crowd.
- Fresh or frozen peaches both work. Frozen peaches double as ice if you need to chill the drink quickly.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.