There's nothing quite like a glass of fresh homemade lemonade on a warm day. Made with fresh lemon juice, homemade simple syrup, and water, this classic recipe is bright, refreshing, and easy to make with just a few simple ingredients.
The simple syrup can be made ahead of time, so all that's left to do is stir everything together when you're ready to serve.
Looking for other refreshing drink ideas? Let me share a few I love! Mojito mocktails are some of my favorite drinks, I have a raspberry, blueberry, and even a blackberry version. Virgin pina Coladas is another creamy drink option that is so tasty!
Ingredients
You'll only need three ingredients:
- Fresh lemons – Freshly squeezed juice gives the best flavor.
- Granulated sugar – Used to make a simple syrup for a smooth, balanced lemonade.
- Water
How to Make Homemade Lemonade
- Start by making the simple syrup. Combine equal parts sugar and water in a small saucepan and heat until the sugar has completely dissolved. Let it cool slightly.
- Juice the lemons while the syrup cools.
- Combine the lemon juice, simple syrup, and cold water in a pitcher. Stir well, then taste and adjust with more water or syrup if needed.
- Serve over ice with lemon slices, if desired.
Recipe Tips
- Fresh lemon juice makes all the difference.
- Make the simple syrup ahead of time and refrigerate until you're ready to use it.
- Taste before serving since the sweetness of lemons can vary.
- Chill the lemonade before serving for the best flavor.
Variations
- Replace the lemons with fresh limes or grapefruit.
- Stir in mashed strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries.
- Add culinary lavender to the simple syrup for a floral twist.
- Sweeten with honey instead of simple syrup if you prefer.
Storage
Store homemade lemonade in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Stir well before serving.
Simple and Perfect Lemonade
This lemonade will certainly live up to it's name- perfect. It is the best drink on a hot summer day!
Equipment
- sauce pan, strainer
Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 quart cold water plus more to taste
- Ice for serving
Instructions
- Combine 1 cup water and the sugar in a small saucepan. Heat over medium, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved, about 5 minutes. Remove from the heat and let cool.
- Pour the simple syrup into a pitcher. Add the lemon juice and 1 quart of cold water, then stir to combine.
- Taste and add more water if you'd like a milder lemonade.
- Serve over ice.
Notes
Notes
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice gives the best flavor.
- The simple syrup can be made several days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
- Adjust the amount of water to suit your taste and the tartness of your lemons.
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