Lemonade and summer are an iconic pairing. The tart, sweet, and refreshing beverage pairs with almost any food on the table. With the new Sonic Sweet Topped Lemonades, it is time to level up the chill with every sip.
A huge food trend in the coffee space is cold foam. From shaken espressos with a luscious layer of creaminess to a simple iced beverage with a scoop of froth, that creamy, sweet deliciousness adds viscosity and flavor to the classic coffee.
Sonic is taking that trend to its lemonade. Available in three flavors, Classic, Strawberry, and Blueberry Lavender, these Sweet Topped Lemonades are more than just simple refreshment. They celebrate the sweet summer vibes that everyone craves.
Thinking about these flavors, the idea is almost a modern take on a creamsicle. Last summer, many brands transformed that orange and cream dessert into a wide array of food and beverages. From desserts to cocktails, everyone craved the contrast of bright citrus and sweet vanilla.
With the Sweet Topped Lemonades, it turns a beverage into a dessert with minimal effort. Additionally, these items are smart alternatives to the sweeter slushies and shakes. During the summer heat, people tend to prefer lighter flavors.
Looking at the three flavors, the Strawberry option will be the most successful. Although the classic lemonade feels more like a traditional frozen dessert offering, the strawberry, lemonade, and cream feels indulgent without venturing too far into a sugary explosion. It appeals to people who love classic strawberries and cream in the summer. It feels sophisticated enough for the older crowd.
Additionally, it pairs well with almost anything on the Sonic menu. From a simple burger to a hearty Coney Dog, the sweet, tart flavor helps cut through the richness of many of the heavier food items.
The most interesting choice is the Blueberry Lavendar. While blueberry and lemonade are a classic pairing, the herbal lavender is not a common ingredient on a quick service menu. This combination appeals to a whole new audience. In some ways, it is a smart launch to pair with its summer reading promotion.
Although some people might remember Book It programs from their youth, Sonic’s promotion appears to play into the BookTok segment. Last year, several brands showcased summer reading and food collaborations.
The Sonic Sweet Topped Lemonades and reading pairings invite people to make a stop even if it is just for a drink. America’s Drive-In seems to be taking a different approach to the Happy Hour vibe. This summer is all about the "Reading Relaxing Refreshment."
Ready to grab a Sonic Sweet Topped Lemonade? The beverages are available in the Sonic Drive-In app now. They hit the full menu on June 2, 2025.