Make this easy, fresh squeezed lemonade using a simple 3-ingredient syrup method. It is the ultimate thirst quencher for summer gatherings and BBQs.
Author:miasmeals
Prep Time:15 min
Cook Time:5 min
Total Time:20 min
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Beverage
Method:Stovetop/Mixing
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 4–6 lemons)
1 cup granulated sugar
4 cups cold water
Ice for serving
Instructions
Make the simple syrup: Combine the sugar and 1 cup of water in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar completely dissolves. Do not boil. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.
Combine ingredients: In a large pitcher, mix the cooled simple syrup, the fresh lemon juice, and the remaining 3 cups of cold water.
Taste and adjust: Taste the mixture. If you prefer it sweeter, add a little more sugar dissolved in a small amount of hot water. If you prefer it tarter, add a splash more lemon juice.
Chill: Refrigerate the lemonade for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Serve: Serve the classic lemonade over ice. Garnish glasses with lemon slices for a bright presentation.
Notes
For lemonade for a crowd, double or triple this recipe, adjusting the water volume as needed for your pitcher size.
To make pink lemonade, add 1/4 cup of cranberry juice or a few drops of natural red food coloring to the mixture.
For peach lemonade, muddle 1/2 cup of fresh peach slices into the simple syrup while it cools.