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Glass of refreshing homemade lemonade with ice and lemon slices

Homemade Lemonade

A bright and zesty drink that brings people together, perfect for summer gatherings with a refreshing balance of lemon, sugar, and water.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Beverage, Drink
Cuisine: American
Calories: 120
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Lemonade Base
  • 5 cups water, divided Use cool filtered water for clarity.
  • 1.5 cups granulated sugar White sugar creates a neutral syrup; can swap for honey.
  • 2-3 cups fresh lemon juice (about 8-12 large lemons) Fresh juice gives the brightest flavor; strain seeds before serving.
  • Ice optional Add to glasses for serving.
  • Lemon slices, optional For garnish.
  • Fresh mint leaves, for garnish Clap gently to release oils.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Peel the skin off of 2 lemons using a vegetable peeler or knife, removing only the yellow zest.
  2. Squeeze the lemons to get 2-3 cups of lemon juice, straining seeds and large pulp through a fine mesh.
Making the Syrup
  1. In a medium pan over medium-high heat, bring 1 cup water, granulated sugar, and lemon zest to a simmer for about 4-5 minutes.
  2. Remove from heat and allow the syrup to cool before straining and refrigerating.
Combining Ingredients
  1. In a large pitcher, combine the cooled syrup, ice, lemon slices, 2 cups of lemon juice, and the remaining 4 cups of water.
  2. Stir to combine and taste for balance, adjusting the lemon juice and water as needed.
Serving
  1. Refrigerate until chilled and serve in glasses with ice, garnished with mint and lemon slices.

Notes

Make the syrup up to 3 days ahead and store separately. Drink is best consumed within 48 hours for freshness.