Summer is here, and what better way to beat the heat than with a cool, refreshing drink? But let’s be honest – getting kids to eat healthy can be a challenge, especially when it comes to drinks. That’s why we’ve put together 20 easy-to-make, kid-approved recipes that are perfect for hot summer days (or any time of year!). From classic flavors like strawberry and orange to more unique combinations like watermelon mint and pomegranate ginger, there’s something for every taste bud. So grab your blender, juice, and favorite fruits, and get ready to create some fun in the sun with these refreshing drink recipes that kids will love.
Fruity Rainbow Smoothie
Start your day with a burst of colorful goodness! This Fruity Rainbow Smoothie is a refreshing blend of fruits, yogurt, and honey that’s perfect for any time of the day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 cup vanilla almond milk
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine frozen mixed berries, sliced banana, Greek yogurt, and honey.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy.
3. Add vanilla almond milk and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as desired.
5. Add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker smoothie.
Cooking Time: None! Just blend and enjoy.
Strawberry Banana Milkshake
Beat the heat with this refreshing milkshake that combines sweet strawberries and ripe bananas. A perfect treat for a hot summer day!
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 cup fresh or frozen strawberries
– 1/2 cup vanilla ice cream
– 1/4 cup whole milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine sliced bananas, strawberries, and honey.
2. Add vanilla ice cream and whole milk to the blender.
3. Blend the mixture on high speed until smooth and creamy.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as needed.
5. Pour into glasses and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Banana Milkshake!
Blueberry Lemonade Slush
Beat the heat with this sweet and tangy slush made with fresh blueberries, lemonade, and a touch of ice. Perfect for hot summer days, this recipe is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1 cup lemonade (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine blueberries and sugar. Blend until smooth.
2. Add lemonade, water, and ice to the blender. Blend until well combined and slushy.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness as needed.
4. Pour into glasses and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Watermelon Mint Cooler
Beat the heat with this revitalizing drink that combines the sweetness of watermelon with the cooling essence of mint.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups cubed seedless watermelon (about 1 small melon)
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 2 cups ice-cold water
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine watermelon cubes, mint leaves, and ice-cold water.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large pitcher or jug.
4. Stir in lime juice and honey (if using).
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! Just blend, strain, and chill.
Yield: 2-3 servings
Apple Cinnamon Sparkler
Elevate your beverage game with this refreshing Apple Cinnamon Sparkler! This sweet and tangy drink is perfect for warm weather gatherings or cozying up on a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups apple juice
– 1/4 cup sparkling water
– 2 tablespoons cinnamon syrup (or to taste)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pitcher with ice cubes.
2. Pour in the apple juice and stir to combine.
3. Add the cinnamon syrup and ground cinnamon; stir until well combined.
4. Top the mixture with sparkling water and stir gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with a cinnamon stick or a slice of apple if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This drink is ready in just 5 minutes!
Orange Creamsicle Smoothie
Step into a sunny summer day with this refreshing Orange Creamsicle Smoothie! With the perfect blend of creamy and tangy, this drink is sure to quench your thirst and satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen orange juice concentrate
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the orange juice concentrate, Greek yogurt, milk, and honey.
2. Blend the mixture until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add the vanilla extract and blend for an additional 5-10 seconds.
4. Taste the smoothie and adjust the sweetness or consistency as desired by adding more honey or ice cubes.
5. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None!
Pineapple Coconut Mocktail
Escape to a tropical paradise with this refreshing pineapple coconut mocktail, perfect for warm weather gatherings or anytime you need a taste of the islands. With its creamy texture and sweet-tart flavor, this drink is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups pineapple juice
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Ice cubes
– Fresh pineapple wedges and toasted coconut flakes for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine pineapple juice, coconut milk, and lime juice.
2. Add simple syrup and stir until well combined.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve over ice and garnish with fresh pineapple wedges and toasted coconut flakes, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This mocktail is ready to serve as soon as you combine the ingredients and chill it.
Berry Blast Slushie
Quench your thirst with this refreshing berry blast slushie! Made with a mix of sweet and tangy berries, this drink is perfect for hot summer days or any time you need a cool pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 cups water
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Combine the mixed berries and granulated sugar in a blender.
2. Blend until smooth, mashing any remaining fruit to release juices.
3. Add the water and lemon juice to the blender. Blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness as needed.
5. Pour into glasses and serve immediately. You can also add ice cubes and blend again if you prefer a thicker slushie.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (blending time)
Chocolate Peanut Butter Shake
This decadent treat combines the creamy richness of chocolate with the nutty flavor of peanut butter, creating a indulgent and refreshing drink perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups vanilla ice cream
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Ice cubes (as needed)
– Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine ice cream, milk, peanut butter, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or flavor as desired.
4. Pour into glasses and serve immediately. Add whipped cream and chocolate shavings for a luxurious touch, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This shake is ready in just a few minutes of blending.
Peach Mango Lassi
Beat the heat with this sweet and tangy Peach Mango Lassi, a perfect blend of juicy peaches and ripe mangoes in a creamy yogurt base. This refreshing drink is sure to quench your thirst and satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 2 ripe peaches, diced
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (optional)
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine mango, peaches, yogurt, and milk. Blend until smooth.
2. Add honey and blend until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as needed.
4. Pour into glasses and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Just blend and serve.
Grapefruit Honey Spritzer
This Grapefruit Honey Spritzer is a perfect blend of sweet and tangy, making it an ideal choice for warm weather gatherings or a quick pick-me-up any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups sparkling water
– 1/2 cup grapefruit juice (fresh or bottled)
– 2 tbsp honey syrup (equal parts honey and water, dissolved)
– Slice of fresh grapefruit, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a glass with ice.
2. Pour in the grapefruit juice and honey syrup.
3. Top with sparkling water.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Garnish with a slice of fresh grapefruit.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (simply assemble and serve!)
Cherry Vanilla Float
Enjoy a refreshing treat with this simple recipe that combines sweet cherries and creamy vanilla ice cream with soda. Perfect for hot summer days or as a special dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of vanilla ice cream
– 1 cup of maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
– 1 liter of ginger ale
– Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Scoop the vanilla ice cream into tall glasses or floats.
2. Add 1/4 cup of chopped maraschino cherries on top of the ice cream.
3. Pour 1/2 liter of ginger ale over the cherries and ice cream.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Top with whipped cream, if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None needed! Just assemble and serve.
Kiwi Lime Slush
Beat the heat with this sweet and tangy slushie made with kiwi and lime! This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick pick-me-up or a fun treat for kids.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups frozen kiwi
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 cups water
– Ice cubes (as needed)
– Lime wedges and kiwi slices for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the frozen kiwi, lime juice, and sugar.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add the water and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust the sweetness or tartness to your liking.
5. Pour into glasses filled with ice and garnish with a lime wedge and kiwi slice, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This slushie is ready in just 2 minutes of blending time.
Raspberry Yogurt Smoothie
Revitalize your day with this refreshing and healthy smoothie, perfect for a quick breakfast or snack. This sweet and tangy treat combines the flavors of fresh raspberries and creamy yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the raspberries, yogurt, and honey.
2. Blend until smooth, adding milk as needed to achieve desired consistency.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
4. Add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker, colder smoothie.
5. Blend again until ice is crushed and smoothie is the desired texture.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Pomegranate Ginger Fizz
Pomegranate Ginger Fizz: A Refreshing Twist on a Classic Cocktail
This fruity and spicy drink is perfect for warm weather gatherings or anytime you need a pick-me-up. With the sweetness of pomegranate and the spiciness of ginger, this fizz is sure to quench your thirst.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups sparkling water
– 1 cup pomegranate juice
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water dissolved)
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine pomegranate juice, lime juice, and simple syrup. Stir to combine.
2. Add the sliced ginger to the pitcher and let it infuse for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Just before serving, stir in the sparkling water.
4. Fill glasses with ice and pour the Pomegranate Ginger Fizz over the ice.
5. Garnish with a lime wedge or a sprig of fresh mint, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Tropical Green Smoothie
Escape to a tropical paradise with this refreshing green smoothie, packed with nutrients and flavor! This recipe is perfect for hot summer days or as a healthy breakfast on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups spinach
– 1 cup frozen pineapple
– 1/2 cup frozen mango
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. Add all the ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth.
2. Taste and adjust sweetness or thickness as needed.
3. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! Blend and enjoy!
Lemon Berry Ice Tea
Beat the heat with this refreshing twist on traditional ice tea! This recipe combines the sweetness of berries and the tanginess of lemon for a perfect summer drink.
Ingredients:
– 1 quart water
– 4 tea bags (black or green tea)
– 1 cup mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. Start by brewing the tea according to package instructions.
2. While the tea is steeping, mix together the berries and lemon juice in a separate bowl.
3. Once the tea has cooled, add it to the berry mixture and stir well.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, add honey to taste (if using).
6. Serve the Lemon Berry Ice Tea over ice in tall glasses and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Caramel Apple Cider
As the weather cools down, a warm cup of cider is just what you need to brighten up your day. This caramel apple cider recipe combines the sweetness of apples and caramel with the spices of cinnamon and nutmeg for a delicious fall treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups apple cider
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Cinnamon sticks or ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine apple cider, brown sugar, and heavy cream. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add the butter, vanilla extract, and salt to the saucepan. Stir until the butter melts.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the cider has reduced slightly and reached your desired sweetness level.
4. Remove from heat and stir in cinnamon sticks or add a pinch of ground cinnamon if using.
5. Pour into mugs and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Vanilla Almond Milk Shake
This refreshing treat combines the sweetness of vanilla with the nutty flavor of almonds, all blended into a creamy and indulgent milkshake. Perfect for hot summer days or as a pick-me-up any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups almond milk
– 1/2 cup vanilla ice cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine almond milk, vanilla ice cream, softened butter, vanilla extract, and salt.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or flavor as desired.
4. Pour into glasses and garnish with sliced almonds, if using.
Cooking Time: None! Simply blend and serve.
Cucumber Melon Cooler
Stay refreshed with this light and refreshing summer drink! This Cucumber Melon Cooler is perfect for hot days when you need a cool treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cubed cucumber
– 1 cup cubed cantaloupe melon
– 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 4 cups ice-cold water
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine cucumber, melon, lime juice, and simple syrup.
2. Blend until smooth and well combined.
3. Add ice-cold water and blend until the mixture is chilled and refreshing.
4. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any pulp or fibers.
5. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
6. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This drink is best served immediately after chilling.
Summary
Get ready to quench your little ones’ thirst with these refreshing drink recipes! From classic flavors like strawberry banana milkshake and blueberry lemonade slush, to unique twists like watermelon mint cooler and pineapple coconut mocktail, there’s something for every kid. These easy-to-make drinks are perfect for hot summer days or a quick after-school treat. With a range of fruity flavors and creamy textures, you’ll find the perfect recipe to delight your kids’ taste buds. So why not get blending and make some memories with these fun and refreshing drink recipes?
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