Food processor or blender
Fine Mesh Strainer or Cheesecloth:
Ladle
Water bath canning equipment
- 4 cups frozen raspberries thawed
- 8 cups fresh lemon juice preferably freshly squeezed
- 6 cups granulated sugar adjust according to sweetness preference
Blend Raspberries: Put the raspberries in a food processor and blend until smooth.
Strain Juice: Pour the raspberry puree through a fine mesh strainer, keeping the juice and discarding the seeds.
Combine Ingredients: In a large pot, mix the raspberry juice, lemon juice, sugar, and lemon zest (if using). Cook over medium heat until the mixture reaches 190°F, stirring to dissolve the sugar and making a simple syrup. Avoid boiling.
Cool: Allow the concentrate to cool slightly before canning.
Sterilize Jars: Wash jars, lids, and bands in hot, soapy water. Simmer jars in a water bath canner for 10 minutes. Keep lids and bands hot but not boiling.
Prepare Canning Station: Set up your ladle, canning funnel, jar lifter, and clean cloths within easy reach.
Fill Jars: Using a canning funnel and ladle, fill the jars with the hot concentrate, leaving a 1/4-inch headspace. Remove air bubbles with a spatula.
Wipe and Seal: Clean the jar rims with a damp cloth. Place the lids on the jars and screw the bands on until fingertip tight.
Process: Place jars on a rack in the canner, ensuring they’re covered by at least 1 inch of water. Boil for 15 minutes (adjust for altitude). Let jars cool in the canner for 5 minutes before removing.
Cool and Check Seals: Let jars cool on a towel for 12-24 hours. Check seals; the lid should not flex when pressed. Label and store in a cool, dark place.
Dilute the Concentrate: In a glass pitcher or tall glass, mix the raspberry lemonade concentrate with water. The typical ratio is 1 part concentrate to 3 parts water, but you can adjust this to your taste. For a single serving, start with 1/4 cup of concentrate and add 3/4 cup of water. Taste and adjust as you would like.
Chill (Optional): For an extra refreshing drink, chill the mixed lemonade in a large pitcher in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to an hour (perfect to prep for a large crowd), or serve immediately over ice.
Calories: 770kcal | Carbohydrates: 199g | Fat: 1g | Sodium: 2mg | Potassium: 4mg | Sugar: 200g | Calcium: 2mg | Iron: 0.1mg