Description
Experience the ultimate refreshing homemade lemonade, crafted with fresh-squeezed citrus and a perfectly balanced simple syrup. By dissolving sugar into a warm syrup before mixing, this recipe guarantees a smooth, grit-free beverage that captures the brightness of real lemons. It is the perfect American summer classic for any occasion, offering a crisp, clean flavor profile that is leagues above store-bought varieties.
Ingredients
8–10 large fresh lemons (yielding 2 cups of juice)
2 cups granulated white sugar
8 cups filtered water (divided)
Instructions
Combine 1 cup of water and 2 cups of sugar in a medium saucepan.
Heat over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the sugar is completely dissolved and the liquid is clear.
Remove from heat and allow the syrup to cool.
Roll lemons on the counter to soften, then slice in half.
Squeeze the lemons to extract 2 cups of juice and strain through a fine-mesh sieve.
Pour the cooled simple syrup into a large pitcher.
Add the lemon juice and the remaining 7 cups of cold water to the pitcher.
Stir well and serve over ice.
Notes
Ensure the simple syrup is fully cooled before adding to the fresh lemon juice to preserve the bright, fresh flavor of the citrus. Feel free to substitute agave nectar for sugar if preferred. Adjust the final water content to match your taste for tartness.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 5
- Category: Summer Desserts
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 glass (approx 12-14 oz)
- Calories: 165
- Sugar: 40g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg