There’s nothing like a cold glass of lemonade on a hot day, especially when it’s made fresh at home. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can skip the powdered mixes and whip up a classic, refreshing drink for your family.
This simple guide shares how to get the perfect blend of sweet and tart every time. Stick around to find out just how easy homemade lemonade can be. Be sure to scroll down and check out the fun variation too.
This lemonade would pair beautifully with our Classic Potato Salad, Kidney Bean Salad, or Old Fashioned Pea Salad for the perfect summer lunch.
Easy Homemade Lemonade
Servings: About 6-8 cups
Total Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4-6 lemons) – How to pick the juiciest lemons
– 4 cups water (divided)
– 1 cup granulated sugar or simple syrup
– Ice
– Lemon slices and mint for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Juice the Lemons:
Squeeze the juice from the lemons until you have about 1 cup of lemon juice, removing any seeds.
Make the Simple Syrup:
In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of sugar with 1 cup of water and heat until the sugar dissolves completely. Let it cool.
Combine:
In a pitcher, mix the lemon juice, simple syrup, and 3 cups of cold water. Stir well and adjust the sweetness to taste.
Serve:
Pour over ice, garnish with lemon slices and fresh mint if desired, and enjoy! For a fun touch, you can rub the rim of each glass with a lemon wedge and then dip it into granulated sugar to coat.
Homemade Lemonade Variation:
Try grilling the lemons before squeezing them. Why? It helps to deepen and intensify the lemon flavor. Preheat your grill on high heat. If placing the lemons directly on the grates, you will want to oil them. Cut the lemons in half and put them cut side down on the grates for about 5 minutes.
You can also use your broiler if you’d prefer. Once again, cut the lemons in half and place them on a baking sheet (with edges so the juice doesn’t drip down onto the bottom of your oven) that has been lined with aluminum foil. Broil for approximately 15-20 minutes. To get the best results, you’ll want the tops of the lemons to be blackened.
Fresh lemonade brings back memories of simple joys, but it also fits right into busy days. With these easy steps, anyone can keep a pitcher in the fridge for whenever the mood strikes. If you enjoyed this recipe, take a look at our other quick drinks and stay refreshed all year.
And if you found these tips helpful, pass this recipe along to a friend or pop your thoughts in the comments. Or share pictures of your delicious lemonade with us on social media – @mixinmamas on Facebook and Instagram.
If you’re hosting brunch, don’t miss our peaches and cream waffles. They pair beautifully with this classic lemonade recipe.
FAQs
Homemade Lemonade: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemons?
You can, but fresh lemons bring a brighter flavor. Bottled juice might taste a bit flat or bitter. If you use bottled juice, check it’s 100% lemon with no added preservatives for the best result.
What’s the best sugar to use for lemonade?
Regular granulated sugar works best because it dissolves easily. You can try honey, agave or maple syrup. Adjust the sweetness since these taste stronger than regular sugar.
Do I need to make a simple syrup?
Making a simple syrup is my preferred method. A simple syrup helps sugar dissolve faster and mixes evenly. If you’re in a hurry, though, you can stir the sugar really well in cold water until dissolved.
How can I make my lemonade less tart?
Add more sugar or mix in a bit more water. Sometimes even a pinch of salt can help balance the sourness without making the drink noticeably salty.
Can I add other flavors to my lemonade?
Yes, add fresh berries, mint, ginger, cucumbers or even lavender. Muddle herbs or fruit in the pitcher, or steep peels or spices in the syrup for extra flavor.
How long does homemade lemonade last in the fridge?
Keep it refrigerated and covered. It stays fresh for about five to seven days. Shake or stir before serving, as some settling may happen.
How do I keep lemonade from tasting watered down?
If you find it’s tasting watered down, you can chill your lemonade ahead of time or use frozen fruit as ice cubes.
What’s the best way to juice lemons by hand?
Roll the lemons on your counter first to loosen the juice. Cut in half and use a citrus juicer or reamer. If you don’t have one, squeeze firmly with your hand and strain out the seeds.
Any tips for a fizzy lemonade?
Mix your lemon juice and sweetener base, then top with chilled sparkling water right before serving. This keeps it bubbly and fresh.
Easy Homemade Lemonade
Ingredients
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice about 4-6 lemons
- 4 cups water divided
- 1 cup granulated sugar for the simple syrup
- Ice
- Lemon slices and mint for garnish optional
Instructions
Juice the Lemons:
- Squeeze the juice from the lemons until you have about 1 cup of lemon juice, removing any seeds.
Make the Simple Syrup:
- In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of sugar with 1 cup of water and heat until the sugar dissolves completely. Let it cool.
Combine:
- In a pitcher, mix the lemon juice, simple syrup, and 3 cups of cold water. Stir well and adjust the sweetness to taste.
Serve:
- Pour over ice, garnish with lemon slices and fresh mint if desired, and enjoy!
Homemade Grilled Lemonade Variation:
- Try grilling the lemons before squeezing them. Why? It helps to deepen and intensify the lemon flavor. Preheat your grill on high heat. If placing the lemons directly on the grates, you will want to oil them. Cut the lemons in half and put them cut side down on the grates for about 5 minutes.
- You can also use your broiler if you’d prefer. Once again, cut the lemons in half and place them on a baking sheet (with edges so the juice doesn’t drip down onto the bottom of your oven) that has been lined with aluminum foil. Broil for approximately 15-20 minutes. To get the best results, you’ll want the tops of the lemons to be blackened.
Nutrition
📌 Love this easy homemade lemonade recipe?
Be sure to save it for later on Pinterest so you can enjoy a refreshing glass all summer long! Just click the image below to pin it to your favorite drink or summer board. 🍋💛
