Description
A refreshing and easy-to-make homemade lemonade that’s perfectly balanced between sweet and tart. This lemon drink uses freshly squeezed lemons and a simple syrup base to create a classic American beverage ideal for hot summer days, garnished with optional lemon slices and fresh mint leaves for an extra touch of freshness.
Ingredients
Scale
Simple Syrup
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
Lemonade
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4–6 lemons)
- 3 cups cold water
- 1 cup ice cubes
- lemon slices for garnish (optional)
- fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Make the Simple Syrup: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar with 1 cup of water. Stir constantly to dissolve the sugar completely, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes. Once fully dissolved, remove the saucepan from heat and let the syrup cool slightly.
- Combine Lemonade Ingredients: In a large pitcher, pour in the freshly squeezed lemon juice. Add the cooled simple syrup, followed by the remaining 3 cups of cold water. Stir the mixture well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Chill and Serve: Add 1 cup of ice cubes to the pitcher to chill the lemonade. When ready to serve, pour the lemonade into glasses filled with ice cubes. Garnish each glass with lemon slices and fresh mint leaves if desired to enhance flavor and presentation.
Notes
- To make the lemonade more tart, reduce the sugar amount slightly according to your taste preference.
- For a sparkling version, substitute 1 cup of cold water with club soda just before serving.
- Try infusing the simple syrup with herbs like basil or lavender for a unique flavor twist.
