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–+ servings
Fresh homemade lemonade in mason jars with lemon slices and ice, served with striped straws
Chef Mary from Mary Recipes portrait in modern kitchenMaryRecipes

Lemonade Recipe

This fresh homemade lemonade recipe is the perfect refreshing drink for warm days. Made with freshly squeezed lemons, sugar, and cold water, it creates a classic balance of sweet and tart flavors. This easy lemonade takes only a few minutes to prepare and tastes far better than store-bought versions. Serve it chilled over ice with lemon slices or fresh mint for a bright, refreshing summer beverage everyone will love.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 3 minutes
Total Time 13 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Beverage, Drink
Cuisine: American, International
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup fresh lemon juice about 5–6 lemons
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 4 –5 cups cold water
  • 1 cup ice cubes
  • Lemon slices for garnish
  • Fresh mint leaves optional garnish

Equipment

  • Citrus juicer or lemon reamer
  • Pitcher
  • Measuring cups
  • Small saucepan
  • Spoon
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

Step 1: Juice the Lemons
  1. Roll the lemons on the counter with your palm to soften them. Cut them in half and squeeze the juice using a citrus juicer. Remove any seeds.
Step 2: Make the Simple Syrup
  1. In a small saucepan, combine the sugar with 1 cup of water. Heat gently while stirring until the sugar completely dissolves. Let it cool slightly.
Step 3: Mix the Lemonade
  1. In a large pitcher, combine the fresh lemon juice and the simple syrup.
Step 4: Add Water
  1. Pour in the remaining cold water and stir well to combine.
Step 5: Taste and Adjust
  1. Taste the lemonade and adjust the flavor by adding more water if it is too strong or more sweetener if desired.
Step 6: Serve
  1. Add ice to glasses and pour the lemonade over the ice. Garnish with lemon slices and mint leaves if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 120kcal

Notes

  • Use fresh lemons for the best flavor. Bottled lemon juice does not give the same bright citrus taste.
  • Simple syrup prevents grainy lemonade by dissolving the sugar completely.
  • Adjust sweetness by adding more sugar or honey to taste.
  • For a fizzy variation, replace some of the water with sparkling water.
  • Store leftover lemonade in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

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