This classic lemonade is a refreshing drink made with fresh lemon juice, sugar, and water. It’s perfect for hot days and easy to make at home for a cool, tangy treat.
I like to add a few ice cubes and maybe a splash of sparkling water if I want some fizz. It makes me feel like a lemonade stand pro!
If you want to save time, you can use bottled lemon juice. Just stir well and enjoy your homemade, sunny drink anytime!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Lemons: They give lemonade its bright, tangy flavor. I recommend using ripe, juicy lemons for the best taste. If lemons are hard to find, bottled lemon juice is a quick substitute, but fresh is always preferred for flavor.
Sugar: Sugar sweetens and balances the acidity of the lemons. I like to start with less and adjust to taste. Honey or agave can replace sugar; just reduce the amount since they’re sweeter than granulated sugar.
Water: It thins out the lemon juice and makes the drink refreshing. Use cold, filtered water if possible. Sparkling water can add a fun fizz if you prefer a bubbly lemonade.
How do I sweeten lemonade evenly?
To evenly dissolve sugar, make a simple syrup first: combine equal parts sugar and water in a small pot. Heat gently, stirring until sugar dissolves fully. Cool before mixing with lemon juice—this guarantees a smooth, well-mixed lemonade.
- Step 1: Combine sugar and water in a saucepan.
- Step 2: Heat over medium, stirring until sugar dissolves completely—no grit!
- Step 3: Let it cool before adding to lemon juice for even sweetness.
How to Make Classic Lemonade?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Produce
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4-6 lemons)
- 1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 4 cups cold water
- Ice cubes
How Much Time Will You Need?
10 minutes prep + 0 minutes cook + 0 minutes rest = 10 minutes total
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Squeeze Lemons
Juice the lemons until you have about 1 cup of fresh lemon juice. Strain to remove seeds and pulp if desired.
2. Make the Sweetener
In a small saucepan, heat 1/2 cup of water and dissolve the sugar. Stir until completely dissolved. Allow to cool.
3. Mix Lemonade
In a pitcher, combine lemon juice, cooled sugar syrup, and remaining 3 1/2 cups cold water. Stir well.
4. Serve
Fill glasses with ice cubes. Pour lemonade over ice and enjoy!
