Homemade Lemonade Recipe

This Homemade Lemonade Recipe is the perfect refreshing drink for warm weather, combining the bright tartness of fresh lemons with just the right amount of sweetness. It’s simple, customizable, and ideal for sipping on sunny days or serving at gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Made with real lemons for fresh, vibrant flavor
• Perfectly balanced between tart and sweet
• Easy to customize with herbs, fruits, or sparkling water
• Quick to prepare with just three basic ingredients
• Great for kids and adults alike

Ingredients

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

• Fresh lemons (about 4–6 medium lemons)
• Granulated sugar
• Water (divided for syrup and dilution)
• Optional: fresh mint, basil, lemon slices, ice, berries

Directions

this recipe

1. Make simple syrup: Combine equal parts sugar and water (typically 1 cup each) in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved. Let it cool.
2. Juice the lemons: Roll the lemons on the counter, then cut and juice them until you have about 1 cup of fresh lemon juice. Strain out seeds.
3. Mix the lemonade: In a large pitcher, combine the cooled syrup and lemon juice. Add 4–6 cups of cold water to dilute, adjusting to your preferred sweetness and tartness.
4. Taste and adjust: Add more syrup for sweetness or more lemon juice for tartness.
5. Serve: Chill in the fridge or serve over ice. Garnish with lemon slices, herbs, or berries if desired.

Servings and timing

• Servings: about 8 (8-ounce) glasses
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 5 minutes (for syrup)
• Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Herb-infused: Add mint or basil to the simple syrup or pitcher
• Sparkling lemonade: Replace half the water with club soda
• Fruit-flavored: Add blended strawberries, raspberries, or peaches
• Whole lemon blend: Blend peeled lemons with sugar and water, then strain
• Frozen lemonade: Blend with ice for a slushy version

Storage / reheating

• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5–7 days
• Keep the simple syrup separate and mix when needed for extended freshness
• Do not freeze fully mixed lemonade, as it may separate

FAQs

How many lemons do I need for one cup of juice?

You’ll need about 4–6 medium lemons, depending on their juiciness.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Yes, but fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor.

How do I make it less sweet?

Add more water or reduce the amount of simple syrup to suit your taste.

What’s the benefit of using simple syrup?

It ensures the sugar is fully dissolved and evenly sweetens the lemonade.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, both the syrup and juice can be prepared ahead and mixed when ready.

Can I add alcohol to make it a cocktail?

Absolutely. Vodka, gin, or bourbon pair well with lemonade for adult versions.

Is there a low-calorie version?

Use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener in the syrup.

Can I use honey instead of sugar?

Yes, mix honey with warm water to create a honey syrup and use it instead.

How do I keep it cold for a party?

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

Can kids help make it?

Definitely! Kids can help juice lemons and stir the mixture under supervision.

Conclusion

Homemade Lemonade is a timeless and refreshing drink that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Whether served ice-cold on its own or dressed up with herbs and fruit, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Keep a pitcher in the fridge, and you’ll always be ready to brighten someone’s day.

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