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Classic Homemade Lemonade Recipe

A tall, chilled glass of sparkling lemonade garnished with a lemon slice and fresh mint sprig.
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Make truly refreshing, sweet and tart lemonade using fresh squeezed lemons and simple syrup. This easy recipe yields a perfect pitcher for summer gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups fresh lemon juice (about 8–10 lemons)
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 cups water (for simple syrup)
  • 4 cups cold water (for mixing)
  • Ice cubes
  • Lemon slices and fresh mint sprigs for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Make the simple syrup: Combine 2 cups of sugar and 2 cups of water in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar completely dissolves. Do not boil. Remove from heat and let the syrup cool completely.
  2. Squeeze lemons to yield 2 cups of fresh lemon juice. Strain the juice to remove pulp and seeds.
  3. Combine the cooled simple syrup, fresh lemon juice, and 4 cups of cold water in a large pitcher. Stir well to mix all ingredients.
  4. Taste the lemonade. Adjust sweetness or tartness by adding a little more simple syrup or lemon juice, if needed.
  5. Chill the lemonade in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.
  6. Serve the lemonade over ice. Garnish each glass with a lemon slice or a sprig of fresh mint.

Notes

  • For a large batch, double or triple the recipe quantities. This recipe makes about 2 quarts.
  • To make Pink Lemonade, add 1/4 cup of cranberry juice or a few drops of red food coloring to the mixture.
  • If you want State Fair Style Lemonade, use slightly less water for a more concentrated flavor before adding ice.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://kitchenslang.com/classic-homemade-lemonade-recipe/