Name: Homemade Lemonade Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4-6 lemons); 1 cup granulated sugar; 5 cups cold water; Ice cubes for serving; Lemon slices for garnish (optional); Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

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Introduction

This homemade lemonade recipe is a refreshing and tangy drink perfect for warm days or any time you want a zesty treat. Made from fresh lemon juice and a simple syrup, it’s easy to prepare and can be customized to your taste.

The image shows a clear glass filled with light yellow lemonade and ice cubes, with a thin lemon slice placed inside the glass near the rim. The glass sits on a light wooden board against a white marbled surface. In the front right corner, there is a half-cut lemon showing its textured inside. In the background, another glass with similar lemonade and lemon slice is visible, along with a bowl filled with whole lemons. The overall tones are bright with yellow and white colors. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 cup granulated sugar
5 cups cold water
Ice cubes for serving
Lemon slices for garnish (optional)
Fresh mint leaves (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Roll the lemons on the countertop to release their juices, then slice and juice them until you have 1 cup of lemon juice. Strain out seeds and pulp if desired.
Step 2: In a saucepan, heat 1 cup of water with 1 cup of sugar over medium heat, stirring until the sugar fully dissolves. Remove from heat and let the simple syrup cool slightly.
Step 3: In a large pitcher, combine the freshly squeezed lemon juice and the cooled simple syrup. Stir well to mix.
Step 4: Add the remaining 4 cups of cold water to the pitcher and stir thoroughly. Taste the lemonade and adjust the lemon juice or syrup to your preference.
Step 5: Refrigerate the lemonade for at least 1 hour to chill and allow flavors to meld.
Step 6: When ready to serve, pour the lemonade over ice cubes and garnish with lemon slices or fresh mint leaves if desired.

Tips & Variations

For a fizzy twist, replace some or all of the cold water with sparkling water just before serving.
Use honey or agave syrup instead of granulated sugar for a natural sweetener alternative.
Add a few crushed fresh berries or a splash of fruit juice for a flavored lemonade variation.
If you prefer less sweet lemonade, reduce the sugar in the simple syrup or add more water.

Storage

Store homemade lemonade in a covered pitcher or airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving again. If the lemonade separates, simply shake or stir it to recombine. It is best served chilled and fresh for optimal flavor.

How to Serve

The image shows a clear glass filled with pale yellow lemonade and ice cubes floating on top. A bright yellow lemon slice is placed on the rim of the glass. Behind it, another similar glass with lemonade, ice, and a lemon slice is slightly out of focus. To the side, there are halved and whole lemons with a vibrant yellow color resting on a white marbled surface. The glass sits on a small wooden board, adding a warm texture contrast to the scene. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemons?

Yes, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch, but fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best bright and natural flavor.

How can I make the lemonade less sweet or more tart?

Adjust the amount of sugar or water to your taste. Adding more water will dilute sweetness and tartness, while using more lemon juice will make it more tart. Experiment until you find your perfect balance.