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Homemade Lemonade

This homemade lemonade is bright, refreshing, and made with just a handful of simple ingredients. Freshly squeezed lemons, sugar, and cold water come together to create the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavor. Whether you're serving it at a backyard barbecue, picnic, birthday party, or simply enjoying a glass on a warm afternoon, this easy lemonade recipe is a classic drink that's always a crowd-pleaser.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Servings: 8
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1½ cups granulated sugar
  • 1½ cups water (for the simple syrup)
  • 1½ cups freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 8–10 lemons)
  • 5 cups cold water
  • Ice
  • Lemon slices, for garnish
  • Fresh mint (optional)

Method
 

Make the Simple Syrup
  1. In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and 1½ cups of water. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar has completely dissolved. Remove from the heat and allow it to cool for about 10–15 minutes.
Juice the Lemons
  1. While the syrup cools, squeeze enough lemons to yield 1½ cups of fresh lemon juice. Remove any seeds.
Mix the Lemonade
  1. In a large pitcher, combine the cooled simple syrup, fresh lemon juice, and 5 cups of cold water. Stir well.
Chill
  1. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour so the flavors have time to come together.

Notes

Tips
  • Roll lemons on the counter before juicing to get more juice.
  • Fresh lemon juice makes a huge difference in flavor.
  • If it's too tart, stir in a little more simple syrup.
  • If it's too sweet, add extra cold water or a splash of lemon juice.
  • Make it a day ahead so it's cold and ready for your party.
  • Freeze lemon slices or berries into ice cubes for a pretty presentation that won't water down the lemonade.
Optional Flavors
  • Fresh strawberries
  • Raspberries
  • Blueberries
  • Peach slices
  • Watermelon
  • Cucumber slices
  • Fresh mint
  • Basil
  • Lavender
  • Sparkling water for a fizzy version