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“Pitcher of freshly made lemonade with lemon slices and ice cubes”

Name: Classic Homemade Lemonade

Summary: A refreshing, zesty homemade lemonade made with freshly squeezed lemons, simple syrup, and chilled water. Perfectly sweet and tangy for summer days or any time you need a citrusy boost. Easy to customize with fruits, herbs, or sparkling water.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: American
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Ingredients:
  • 1 cup fresh lemon juice about 6–8 lemons
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup water for the syrup
  • 4 cups cold filtered water for mixing
  • Ice cubes for serving
  • Optional: lemon slices fresh mint, berries, or herbs for garnish

Equipment

  • Equipment:
  • Citrus juicer or reamer
  • Saucepan (for simple syrup)
  • Pitcher or large jug
  • Fine mesh strainer (optional)
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups
  • Knife and cutting board

Method
 

  1. nstructions:
  2. Juice the Lemons
  3. Roll lemons on a flat surface, cut them in half, and juice them into a bowl. Strain if you prefer pulp-free lemonade.
  4. Make the Simple Syrup
  5. In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup sugar and 1 cup water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves completely. Let cool.
  6. Mix the Lemonade
  7. In a large pitcher, combine the lemon juice and cooled syrup. Add 4 cups of cold filtered water. Stir well.
  8. Adjust to Taste
  9. Taste your lemonade. Add more water for a lighter flavor or more syrup for added sweetness.
  10. Serve
  11. Pour over ice in individual glasses. Garnish with lemon slices, mint, or berries.

Notes

Notes:
Substitute sugar with honey, agave, stevia, or monk fruit for low-sugar or keto versions.
Meyer lemons produce a sweeter, less acidic lemonade.
Add berries or cucumber slices for infused variations.
Can be turned into a sparkling lemonade by replacing still water with sparkling water.
Store in the fridge for up to 7 days in a sealed container.