Lemonade
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Lemonade is one of my very favorite things in the whole world. This recipe beats the pants off of store bought lemonade!
Homemade lemonade is one of those easy recipes you learn once and wow yourself with every time. So much delicious lemon flavor makes me very happy. Serve this with a grilled flank steak and roasted asparagus.
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Lemonade Recipe
Lemonade
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Homemade Lemonade Recipe Ingredients
- Fresh lemon juice – Fresh squeezed really is best. I promise!
- Sugar – Granulated white sugar.
- Water – Cold water, filtered.
- Optional – Lemon slices for garnish.
How do you make lemonade? (step-by-step)
⭐ First, in a small saucepan, bring water to a boil and dissolve sugar into it, making a simple syrup.
⭐ Then, allow syrup to cool completely.
⭐ Next in a large pitcher, mix together syrup, lemon juice, and remaining cold water. Stir to combine.
⭐ Finally, chill until ready to enjoy or add ice cubes to your glasses and serve right away.
Scroll down to the printable recipe card toward the bottom of this article for ingredient measurements and detailed cooking instructions.
Preparation
How do you make lemonade without pulp?
If you don’t like the lemon pulp in your drink, use a fine mesh sieve to strain the fresh squeezed lemon juice before adding it to your recipe.
What is the best lemonade mix?
We use a 1:1:1:6 ratio! One cup of water + one cup of sugar (simple syrup) + one cup of lemon juice + six cups of water.
So if you want to make a lemon juice concentrate, prepare the 1:1:1 part (simple syrup + lemon juice), store in a mason jar, then add the concentrate + water to a pitcher when you’re ready to enjoy.
Can you make it ahead of time?
For sure! Prep this up to a few days in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator until ready to enjoy. You can also prep the concentrate and keep it in the freezer until ready.
Do you have to make a simple syrup for homemade lemonade?
A simple syrup is best, but if you don’t have time to make a simple syrup for this recipe, swap the granulated sugar for 1/2 the amount of powdered sugar and whisk it directly into the pitcher. Add more powdered sugar to taste.
Leftovers and storage
How long does homemade lemonade last?
This lemonade recipe will keep in the refrigerator for up to a week or in the freezer indefinitely. For best results, store in a covered/sealed container.
Can you freeze lemonade?
Yes! If you are lucky enough to come in to an abundance of lemons, feel free to make lots and lots of lemonade because it will freezer perfectly.
You can even create lemonade concentrate and freeze that (takes up less space!), then defrost and add remaining water to enjoy.
Tips, tricks, and frequently asked questions
🍓 Add other fresh fruit juices for added flavor – we’re especially partial to strawberry and raspberry lemonade.
🍋 Pour leftover lemonade into popsicle molds for delicious lemon popsicles.
🥤 Mix in a few shots of vodka for some hard lemonade (grownups only!).
What to enjoy with homemade lemonade (serving suggestions)
This classic recipe pairs perfectly with smoked chicken thighs and air fryer asparagus. And preferably eaten on the patio (or at least with the windows open!). For dessert a scoop of pineapple ice cream or tropical fruit salad.
More delicious lemon recipes
- Lemon pudding cookies
- Lemon pie recipe
- Easy lemon poke cake
- Lemon bars
- Frosted lemonade
- See all our lemon recipes!
Other drinks to enjoy
- Strawberry daiquiris
- Italian sodas
- Watermelon Slushie Recipe
- Pineapple margarita recipe
- Classic coke floats
- Strawberry iced tea recipe
- See all our drink recipes!
Tools we love
- Glass pitcher with lid – Is it even homemade if you don’t serve it in a pretty glass pitcher?
- Colorful paper straws – My kids love when we serve drinks with fun straws.
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How to Make Lemonade
Lemonade Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup lemon juice fresh squeezed (8 - 10 lemons)
- 1 cup water for simple syrup
- 1 cup sugar white, granulated
- 6 cups water plus more, to taste
Instructions
- Make a simple syrup by bringing 1 cup water to a simmer in a small saucepan, then stir in sugar until it dissolves. Chill. (Use the freezer to do this quickly).
- In a large pitcher, add simple syrup, lemon juice, and 6 cups water. Stir and add more water if desired.
- Serve over ice or chill then serve.
Notes
Nutrition
Did You Make This Recipe?
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Check out this collection of lemon recipes from our favorite recipe bloggers!
Lemonade
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FAQ
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
You can, but fresh squeezed really does make a big difference in flavor. If you can swing it, go fresh.
How do I make it less sweet (or more sweet)?
Easy—just adjust the amount of water or simple syrup. Add more water for a lighter, less sweet lemonade, or a bit more syrup if you like it sweeter.
How long does homemade lemonade last?
Stored in the fridge, it’s best within 3–5 days. Give it a quick stir before serving, especially if it’s been sitting.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the full lemonade and chill it, or just prep the concentrate (lemon juice + simple syrup) and add water when ready to serve.
Can I freeze lemonade?
Absolutely. Freeze the concentrate or even the finished lemonade in ice cube trays for easy single servings later.
What’s the best way to serve it?
Over lots of ice with extra lemon slices if you’re feeling fancy. Also great with a handful of fresh mint or berries tossed in.
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I love lemonade! This looks so refreshing and delicious!!
This is perfect for summer and I love making anything homemade! Such a delicious drink! My teens love this after being outside on a hot day!
Homemade lemonade is so refreshing & our go-to all summer long! My kids love doing lemonade stands.