Homemade Lemonade Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Homemade Lemonade is a classic, refreshing drink perfect for warm days, family gatherings, or anytime you crave something sweet and tangy. Made with just a few simple ingredients, this lemonade strikes the perfect balance between tart lemons and sweet syrup. It’s easy to customize and always a crowd-pleaser.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

fresh lemonsgranulated sugarspring waterice cubesoptional: lemon slices and fresh mint for garnish

directions

Juice the lemons until you have about 1 cup of fresh lemon juice.

In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of water and the sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar completely dissolves to make a simple syrup.

Allow the syrup to cool slightly.

In a large pitcher, combine the lemon juice, simple syrup, and 4 to 5 cups of cold water. Stir well.

Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness by adding more sugar or lemon juice as desired.

Add ice cubes to the pitcher or individual glasses before serving.

Garnish with lemon slices and mint if using.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6-8 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesSimple syrup cooling time: 10 minutesTotal time: 20 minutes

Variations

Add a splash of sparkling water for a fizzy lemonade.

Mix in pureed strawberries or raspberries for a fruity twist.

Use honey or agave instead of sugar for a natural sweetener.

Add a pinch of salt for a subtle electrolyte boost.

Infuse with herbs like basil or rosemary for a gourmet touch.

storage/reheating

Store homemade lemonade in a sealed pitcher in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.Stir before each serving, as natural separation may occur.Do not freeze, as it can alter the flavor and texture.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is best for flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.

How do I make it less sweet?

Use less simple syrup or add more water and lemon juice.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, prepare it a day in advance and keep it chilled.

Is it okay to use sparkling water?

Absolutely, it adds a fun fizz to the drink.

What’s the ratio for lemonade?

A common ratio is 1 part lemon juice, 1 part simple syrup, and 3-4 parts water.

Can I double or triple the recipe?

Yes, just scale all ingredients evenly.

Can kids help make this?

Yes, kids can help with juicing lemons and stirring ingredients.

What’s the best type of lemon to use?

Eureka or Lisbon lemons are standard, but Meyer lemons add a sweeter flavor.

How do I keep it cold for a party?

Serve over ice or keep the pitcher in a cooler with ice packs.

Can I use brown sugar?

You can, but it will slightly alter the flavor and color.

Conclusion

Homemade Lemonade is a timeless beverage that brings a burst of sunshine to any occasion. Simple to make and endlessly customizable, it’s a drink that never goes out of style. Whip up a batch today and enjoy the crisp, clean taste of fresh lemonade made just the way you like it.

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