This Grilled Spiked Lemonade is an ideal cocktail to prepare while you’re grilling. Bright, slightly smoky, and refreshingly boozy, it’s a great choice for summer parties, backyard barbecues, or National Lemonade Day. Make a batch for guests and set aside a non-alcoholic version for kids.
Cocktails on the Grill
Using the grill to enhance drinks might sound unusual, but it’s an easy way to add depth and a subtle smokiness to a simple lemonade cocktail. Grilling the sugar-coated lemon slices caramelizes the sugar and concentrates the lemon flavor, giving the drink an adult twist. While vodka would work, tequila adds a distinctive character that pairs especially well with grilled citrus.
The result is a bright, slightly charred lemonade that balances sweet, tart, and smoky notes. If you prefer smaller servings or party shots, spiked lemonade shots are another fun option, but a pitcher of this cocktail is particularly satisfying on a warm day.
How to Make Grilled Spiked Lemonade
Start by slicing several lemons about 1 inch thick and sprinkling each side with sugar. Heat the grill to medium-high and place the lemon slices directly on the grates (or use a grill pan if needed). Let them sit without moving for several minutes so the sugar caramelizes and the lemons take on a slight char. Remove the slices and let them cool.
For the best flavor, use a quality store-bought lemonade that isn’t overly sweet. Combine the lemonade with tequila, triple sec, and a bit of water in a large pitcher, then stir in the cooled grilled lemon slices. Chill the mixture for at least 30 minutes so the flavors meld. Serve over ice and garnish each glass with a grilled lemon slice for a smoky, citrusy finish.
This cocktail is easy to scale for gatherings and works well as a signature drink for summer events.
Looking for More Drink Recipes?
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- Michelada
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- Tequila Rosé Spritzer
Grilled Spiked Lemonade
- Author: Dan
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 Servings
This tequila lemonade cocktail is simple to prepare and perfect for barbecues and summer gatherings.
Ingredients
- 4 cups store-bought lemonade
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup tequila
- 1/4 cup triple sec
- 6 lemons
- 1/4 cup sugar
Instructions
- Heat the grill to medium-high.
- Slice the lemons into 1-inch thick rounds and coat both sides with sugar.
- Place the slices on the grill and leave them undisturbed for about 5 minutes, until the sugar caramelizes and the lemons are slightly charred.
- Transfer the grilled lemon slices to a plate and let them cool.
- In a pitcher, combine the lemonade, tequila, water, and triple sec. Stir to mix, then add the cooled grilled lemon slices. Reserve a few lemon slices to garnish individual glasses.
- Chill the pitcher in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Serve over ice in tall glasses and garnish each with a grilled lemon slice.
- Category: Cocktails
- Method: Grill
- Cuisine: American