Description
This refreshing homemade lemonade recipe is easy to make and perfect for quenching your thirst on a warm day. Combining freshly squeezed lemon juice with a simple sugar syrup and cold water, it creates a balanced sweet and tart drink. Garnish with mint leaves and lemon slices for an extra touch of freshness.
Ingredients
Scale
Syrup
- 2 cups water (for heating)
- 2 cups granulated sugar
Lemonade
- 4 lemons (or 1 cup of fresh lemon juice)
- 4 cups cold water (for pitcher)
- Ice (as needed)
Garnish (optional)
- Fresh mint leaves
- Lemon slices
Instructions
- Make the sugar syrup: In a medium-sized pot, combine 2 cups of water with 2 cups of granulated sugar. Warm the mixture over medium heat on the stove, stirring continuously until the sugar is completely dissolved and the liquid thickens slightly into a syrup.
- Prepare the lemon juice: While the syrup is cooling, squeeze the juice from 4 lemons into a bowl or use a juicer. Strain the juice through a sieve to remove any seeds or pulp for a smooth lemonade base.
- Combine ingredients: Pour the freshly squeezed lemon juice into a large pitcher. Add the cooled sugar syrup to the pitcher, followed by 4 cups of cold water. Stir thoroughly to blend all components evenly.
- Serve and garnish: Add ice cubes to the pitcher or individual glasses. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and lemon slices if desired. Serve chilled for best flavor and refreshment.
Notes
- Adjust sweetness by varying the amount of sugar syrup used based on personal preference.
- For a more tart lemonade, add extra lemon juice or reduce the water slightly.
- This recipe can be made in advance; refrigerate for up to 2 days.
- Use fresh lemons for the best flavor but bottled lemon juice can be substituted in a pinch.
- For a sparkling version, replace some or all of the water with sparkling water.
