Copycat Chick-fil-A Frosted Lemonade Recipe

Master this homemade Copycat Chick-fil-A Frosted Lemonade with just 4 ingredients! Learn how to make the best blended summer treat that perfectly balances creamy vanilla ice cream with tangy fresh lemonade. This easy recipe creates a refreshing frozen drink that tastes just like the famous fast-food favorite.

Difficulty:

Beginner

Prep Time:

10 mins

Cook Time:

0 mins

Serves:

2 large drinks

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"><li class="ingredients-single-item">240ml freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 6-8 lemons)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">100g granulated sugar</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">240ml cold water</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">400g high-quality vanilla ice cream</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">15g lemon zest (optional, for garnish)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">Ice cubes (as needed)</li></ul>

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🍽️ Serving Size: 1 serving

🔥 Calories: 305 calories

🥑 Fat: 15 g

🧈 Saturated Fat: 9 g

🍞 Carbohydrates: 38 g

🍭 Sugar: 35 g

🍗 Protein: 5 g

🫀 Cholesterol: 55 mg

🧂 Sodium: 75 mg

Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"><li class="equipment-single-item">Blender or food processor</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Citrus juicer or reamer</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Fine mesh strainer</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Microplane or zester</li></ul>

Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4>Begin by preparing the fresh lemonade base. Cut your lemons in half and squeeze them using a citrus juicer or reamer until you have 240ml of fresh juice. For maximum juice extraction, roll the lemons firmly on the countertop before cutting them. Strain the juice through a fine mesh strainer to remove any seeds and pulp.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4>In a pitcher or large measuring cup, combine the freshly squeezed lemon juice with 100g granulated sugar. Stir vigorously until the sugar is completely dissolved – this may take 1-2 minutes. The acid in the lemon juice helps break down the sugar crystals. Add 240ml cold water and stir to combine. Taste and adjust sweetness if necessary, as lemons can vary in tartness.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4>Chill your lemonade in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes until completely cold. This step is crucial as using room temperature lemonade will melt the ice cream too quickly and result in a thinner consistency than desired.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4>Remove your vanilla ice cream from the freezer and allow it to soften slightly for about 5 minutes. You want it to be just soft enough to blend but not melting. The ideal temperature is around -12°C, where the ice cream is still firm but scoopable.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4>To your blender, add 400g of slightly softened vanilla ice cream. Pour in 240ml of your chilled lemonade. Add a handful of ice cubes (about 100g) to help achieve that perfect frosty consistency. The ice helps create the signature thick, milkshake-like texture without diluting the flavors too much.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4>Blend on medium speed for 15-20 seconds, then increase to high speed for another 10-15 seconds until the mixture is smooth and creamy with no lumps. Be careful not to over-blend, as this can make the mixture too thin. The perfect consistency should be similar to a thick smoothie – it should pour slowly but not be runny.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4>Pour immediately into chilled glasses for the best presentation and texture. If you'd like, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest and a small sprig of mint. For an authentic touch, serve with a wide straw. Enjoy immediately while cold and frosty!</li></ol>

FAQs

Find answers to your most pressing questions about this delicious recipe right here.

What ingredients are used in Copycat Chick-fil-A Frosted Lemonade?

This refreshing treat requires just 4 main ingredients: freshly squeezed lemon juice, granulated sugar, cold water, and high-quality vanilla ice cream. Optional garnishes include lemon zest and fresh mint leaves, plus ice cubes for the perfect frosty consistency.

How to cook Copycat Chick-fil-A Frosted Lemonade at home?

Learn how to cook Copycat Chick-fil-A Frosted Lemonade by first making fresh lemonade with lemon juice, sugar and water, then chilling it thoroughly. Once cold, blend it with slightly softened vanilla ice cream and ice until smooth and creamy. The secret is using very cold lemonade and not over-blending to maintain the perfect thick, frosty texture.

Can I make this frosted lemonade dairy-free?

Absolutely! For a dairy-free version, substitute the vanilla ice cream with your favourite non-dairy alternative like coconut, almond, or oat milk-based vanilla ice cream. The texture may be slightly different, but it will still create a delicious, creamy frozen lemonade treat.

Why is my frosted lemonade too runny?

Your frosted lemonade may be runny if your lemonade wasn't thoroughly chilled, the ice cream was too soft, or you over-blended the mixture. For the perfect consistency, ensure both lemonade and glasses are pre-chilled, use just-softened ice cream, and blend only until smooth.

What's the best way to serve this frozen drink for a party?

For parties, prepare the lemonade base in advance and keep it well-chilled. When ready to serve, blend batches fresh to maintain the perfect consistency. Serve in pre-frozen glasses with colourful straws, and set up a garnish station with lemon wedges, mint, and zest for guests to customise their drinks.

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