Description
Homemade Lemonade is a refreshing, tangy beverage made with fresh lemons, sugar, and water. This easy-to-make drink is the perfect way to cool off on hot summer days, offering a bright, vibrant flavor that beats store-bought versions. Customize the sweetness to your taste and enjoy a naturally refreshing treat anytime!
Ingredients
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1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 4-6 lemons)
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1 cup granulated sugar
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5 cups cold water
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1-2 lemon slices (for garnish, optional)
- Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
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Making the Simple Syrup:
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Dissolve the sugar: In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of water and the sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is completely dissolved. Let the syrup cool to room temperature.
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Making the Lemonade:
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Juice the lemons: While the syrup cools, juice enough lemons to make 1 cup of fresh lemon juice. Strain out any seeds.
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Combine ingredients: In a large pitcher, combine the fresh lemon juice, cooled simple syrup, and the remaining 4 cups of cold water. Stir well.
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Taste and adjust: Taste your lemonade and adjust the sweetness by adding more sugar or syrup for sweetness, or more lemon juice if you’d like it tarter.
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Serving:
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Chill the lemonade: Refrigerate the lemonade for at least 30 minutes to chill or serve immediately over ice.
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Garnish: Serve with ice and garnish with lemon slices and fresh mint leaves, if desired.
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Notes
Make-Ahead: Make your lemonade ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3-4 days.Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.Variations: Add sparkling water for a fizzy twist, fresh herbs for a herbal infusion, or blend in fresh berries for a fruity twist.
