Homemade Lemonade
If there’s one thing that instantly takes me back to Summer, it’s a tall glass of homemade lemonade. You know the kind, cold, tart and sweet.
This traditional lemonade recipe is our go-to around here. It’s easy, made with real lemons, and it never lasts long (because everyone grabs seconds before it even has a chance to chill). Whether you’re making it for a birthday party, a neighborhood BBQ, or just because you’ve had a long day and need a little sunshine in a cup, this one’s a winner.
Homemade Lemonade Recipe
Here’s What You’ll Need
You probably already have everything sitting in your kitchen. That’s the beauty of it, no fancy stuff required.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Juice the Lemons
Roll those lemons on the counter a few times to loosen them up, then slice and squeeze until you’ve got a full cup of fresh juice. Just be sure to fish out the seeds unless you want your lemonade to crunch.
2. Make the Simple Syrup
In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of sugar and 1 cup of water. Heat gently, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved. Let it cool for a bit before you use it. This little step makes a huge difference, no gritty sugar crystals floating in your drink.
Shortcut: If you’re in a rush, you can use superfine sugar and skip the stove. Just stir very well.
3. Mix It All Together
In a big pitcher, combine your lemon juice, simple syrup, a few slices of lemon and the remaining 3 cups of cold water. Give it a good stir, and taste it. Want it sweeter? Add a little more syrup or sugar. Too strong? Add another splash of water.
4. Serve and Sip!
Fill some glasses with ice, pour in that sunshiney goodness, and garnish with lemon slices and mint if you’re feeling fancy.
Fun Lemonade Variations
Once you’ve nailed the classic, it’s time to play around a little. Here are some of our family favorites that always disappear in minutes:
Strawberry Lemonade
Blend 1 cup of fresh or frozen strawberries and stir into the lemonade before serving. You can strain it if you want it smooth, but we leave the little bits in for flavor.
Blueberry Lemonade
Simmer 1/2 cup of blueberries with your sugar and water when making the simple syrup. Strain and mix with your lemon juice and water. It turns the prettiest purply-pink.
Peach Lemonade
Use peach nectar or puree a ripe peach and add it in. It’s sweet, summery, and honestly tastes like you should be sipping it on a porch swing.
Watermelon Lemonade
Blend up some fresh watermelon (about 2 cups), strain it, and mix it in. This one’s a backyard BBQ favorite around here!
Minty Lemonade
Toss a few fresh mint leaves into the pitcher and let them steep for an hour. It adds a lovely cooling flavor, like spa water, but better.
Sparkling Lemonade
Use sparkling water instead of still for a fizzy twist.
FAQ
Q: Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely! Just mix everything except the ice and garnishes. Keep it chilled in the fridge, and add ice right before serving so it doesn’t get watered down.
Q: Can I use bottled lemon juice?
You can… but it won’t taste the same. Fresh-squeezed lemon juice gives you that bright, sunny flavor that bottled just doesn’t quite match. That said, in a pinch, it works.
Q: How long does homemade lemonade last in the fridge?
If you manage not to drink it all in one day, it’ll last about 5–7 days in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before serving.
Q: Can I cut back on the sugar?
Definitely. Start with less and taste as you go. You can also try honey, maple syrup, or stevia if you’re looking for alternatives.
Q: What’s the best way to juice lemons?
A citrus juicer is helpful, but your hands work just fine. Roll the lemon first to get the juice flowing.
Q: Can I freeze lemonade?
Yep! Pour it into ice cube trays and use those cubes in your next batch of lemonade so it doesn’t get diluted. Or freeze it in a zip-top bag for later.
There’s something so sweet about making lemonade at home. Maybe it’s the bright, zesty scent of fresh lemons. Or maybe it’s the nostalgia, because let’s be honest, lemonade has been a part of so many childhood memories for all of us.
So next time the sun’s shining and you need a little pick-me-up, give this lemonade a try. Better yet, get the kids involved and make it a family thing. Just don’t be surprised when they ask for it every weekend.
