Description
This refreshing homemade lemonade recipe is a perfect balance of tart and sweet, made from freshly squeezed lemons and simple syrup. It’s easy to prepare in just 15 minutes and serves 8, making it ideal for hot days or casual gatherings. Optional additions like fresh mint, berries, and sparkling water offer a customizable twist to elevate your lemonade experience.
Ingredients
Scale
Fresh Ingredients
- 6 large fresh lemons
- Ice cubes, as needed
- Optional: Fresh mint leaves, berries (strawberries or raspberries), lemon slices for garnish
Sweetener
- 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
Liquids
- 4 cups (1 liter) water, divided
- Optional: Sparkling water or club soda, to taste
Instructions
- Gather Ingredients: Assemble all the ingredients you’ll need: fresh lemons, granulated sugar, water, and any optional garnishes or additions like mint and berries.
- Juice the Lemons: Roll the lemons on the countertop to soften them and make juicing easier. Then, cut them in half and squeeze out the juice, removing any seeds. Set aside the fresh lemon juice.
- Make Simple Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of water with the granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is completely dissolved. Remove from heat and let the syrup cool to room temperature.
- Mix Lemonade: In a large pitcher, combine the freshly squeezed lemon juice, the cooled simple syrup, and the remaining 3 cups of water. Stir well to blend all ingredients evenly.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the lemonade for at least 30 minutes to chill. Serve over ice cubes and garnish with lemon slices, fresh mint, or berries as desired. Optionally, add sparkling water or club soda for a fizzy twist.
Notes
- Adjust sweetness by altering the amount of sugar in the simple syrup to suit your taste preferences.
- For an extra refreshing drink, add a few fresh mint leaves during mixing or as garnish.
- Use sparkling water instead of still water to create sparkling lemonade.
- Strain the lemon juice to remove pulp if you prefer a smoother texture.
- Store leftover lemonade in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
