Fresh Classic Homemade Lemonade Recipe Easy Perfect Refreshing Drink
A bright, clean, and refreshing homemade lemonade recipe that balances tart and sweet flavors perfectly. Quick and easy to make, ideal for hot summer days or any occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Beverage
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 6 to 8 medium-sized fresh lemons (about 1 cup or 240 ml of fresh lemon juice)
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 5 cups (1.2 liters) cold, filtered water, divided
- Ice cubes, as needed
- Optional: fresh mint leaves or thin lemon slices for garnish
Instructions
- Make the Simple Syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup (240 ml) water and 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar. Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar completely dissolves (about 5 minutes). Avoid boiling. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
- Juice the Lemons: While the syrup cools, cut the lemons in half and juice them using your citrus juicer. Aim for about 1 cup (240 ml) of fresh lemon juice. Strain to catch seeds if needed.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large pitcher, mix the cooled simple syrup, fresh lemon juice, and 4 cups (950 ml) of cold water. Stir well to blend.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste your lemonade. If it’s too strong, add more water; if it’s not sweet enough, stir in a bit more sugar or simple syrup.
- Chill and Serve: Add plenty of ice cubes to the pitcher or glasses. Garnish with lemon slices or fresh mint if desired. Serve immediately.
- Store Leftovers: Keep any leftover lemonade in the fridge for up to 3 days. Stir before serving as natural separation may occur.
Notes
Make simple syrup first to avoid grainy sugar texture. Roll lemons before juicing to maximize juice yield. Strain juice for pulp-free lemonade if preferred. Adjust sweetness and tartness to taste. Chill lemonade before serving for best refreshment. Store leftovers in fridge up to 3 days and stir before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (8 fl oz / 240
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 25
- Sodium: 2
- Carbohydrates: 27
- Fiber: 0.2
Keywords: lemonade, homemade lemonade, fresh lemonade, summer drink, refreshing drink, classic lemonade, easy lemonade recipe