Homemade Lemonade Recipe

Discover the ultimate Homemade Lemonade Recipe for a refreshing summer drink! This easy, homemade lemonade uses fresh-squeezed lemon juice, simple sugar syrup, and ice-cold water to create the perfect thirst-quencher for hot days, parties, picnics, and family gatherings. With its natural ingredients and customizable sweetness, this classic lemonade recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to beat the heat with a delicious, homemade beverage. Enjoy the vibrant flavors of summer with our best homemade lemonade recipe!

Ingredients

Sugar Syrup:

• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup cold water (for syrup)

Lemon Juice:

• 1 1/2 cups fresh lemon juice (from about 8 medium or 6 large lemons)

To Assemble:

• 7 cups cold water (for serving)

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Instructions

1. Make the Sugar Syrup:
   • In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup cold water and 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar.
   • Heat over medium heat until the mixture just begins to simmer, stirring frequently until the sugar is completely dissolved.
   • Remove from heat and let the syrup cool to room temperature.
   • Once cooled, transfer the syrup to a mason jar, cover, and refrigerate until ready to use.
2. Prepare the Lemon Juice:
   • Squeeze fresh lemons to yield 1 1/2 cups of lemon juice.
   • Transfer the juice to a separate mason jar and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks until you’re ready to make your lemonade.
3. Assemble the Lemonade:
   • In a large pitcher, combine 7 cups of cold water, 1 1/2 cups lemon juice, and 1 1/2 cups chilled sugar syrup.
   • Stir well to blend the flavors, and adjust the sweetness or tartness to taste.
   • Serve over ice in glasses, and enjoy your refreshing homemade lemonade.

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Tips

• Chill Everything: For the best taste, keep your water, syrup, and lemon juice chilled before mixing.
• Adjust to Taste: Feel free to tweak the amounts of syrup and lemon juice based on your preference for sweetness or tartness.
• Storage: Store extra syrup and lemon juice separately in the refrigerator to make future batches quickly.
• Juicing Efficiency: Roll the lemons on the counter with your palm before juicing to help release more juice.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Herbal Twist: Add a few sprigs of fresh mint or basil to your pitcher for an extra refreshing herbal note.
• Fruit-Infused: Muddle a handful of berries (like raspberries or strawberries) into the syrup before mixing for a fruity twist.
• Sparkling Lemonade: Replace still water with sparkling water for a fizzy, festive version.
• Low-Calorie: Use a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol to reduce the calorie count while still enjoying a refreshing drink.

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FAQs

Q: Can I make the lemonade ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the sugar syrup and lemon juice in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Assemble the lemonade just before serving.

Q: How long will the homemade lemonade last in the fridge?
A: Once assembled, the lemonade is best enjoyed within 2 days for optimal freshness.

Q: Do I need to strain the lemon juice?
A: It’s a personal preference. Straining will remove pulp and seeds, giving you a smoother drink, but leaving some pulp adds texture and extra flavor.

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Serving Suggestions

• Summer Party: Serve in tall glasses with ice and garnish with a slice of lemon or a sprig of mint for a refreshing summer party treat.
• Picnic Perfect: Pack the lemonade in a thermos for an outdoor picnic or day at the beach.
• Cocktail Base: Use your lemonade as a base for cocktails by adding your favorite spirit (vodka, rum, or gin) for an adult twist.
• Garnish Ideas: Enhance presentation by adding lemon wedges or a few berries to each glass.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Homemade Lemonade is the perfect blend of tart and sweet, offering a refreshing and invigorating drink that’s ideal for hot summer days. Its simple, made-from-scratch ingredients allow you to control the flavor and sweetness, while the versatility of this recipe makes it a great base for creative variations. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just enjoying a quiet afternoon, this lemonade is sure to become your go-to thirst quencher!

Enjoy your refreshing glass of homemade lemonade!