Classic lemonade is the perfect refreshing drink for hot summer days or any occasion where you need a thirst-quencher. With just three simple ingredients—lemons, sugar, and water—you can make this timeless beverage that’s both sweet and tangy. Whether you’re serving it at a picnic, family gathering, or enjoying it on a relaxing afternoon, this homemade lemonade is sure to please everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Classic Lemonade is the perfect balance of sweet and tart, making it an ideal drink for any occasion. The fresh lemon juice brings a zesty, bright flavor, while the sugar adds just the right amount of sweetness. It’s easy to make, customizable to your taste, and is a great way to cool down on a warm day. Plus, making lemonade from scratch means you can avoid the added preservatives and artificial sweeteners found in store-bought versions.

Classic Lemonade Recipe

Ingredients

1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 4-6 lemons)
1 cup granulated sugar
5 cups cold water
Ice cubes
Lemon slices (for garnish, optional)
Fresh mint (for garnish, optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Make the Simple Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of water and the sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has completely dissolved. Remove from heat and set aside to cool. This is your simple syrup.
Juice the Lemons: While the syrup is cooling, juice the lemons until you have 1 cup of fresh lemon juice. Remove any seeds as you juice.
Combine: In a large pitcher, add the freshly squeezed lemon juice and the cooled simple syrup. Stir to combine.
Add Water: Pour in the remaining 4 cups of cold water. Stir well. Taste the lemonade and adjust the sweetness by adding more water or sugar if desired.
Serve: Fill glasses with ice cubes, pour the lemonade over the ice, and garnish with lemon slices and fresh mint if desired.
Chill and Enjoy: For best results, chill the lemonade in the fridge for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes (for simple syrup)
Total Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling)

Variations

Add Fruit Flavors: Mix in fresh fruit purees like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries to create flavored lemonades. You can blend the fruit and strain it before adding it to the lemonade.
Sparkling Lemonade: For a fizzy twist, replace part of the water with sparkling water or club soda.
Sweetener Alternatives: Use honey, agave syrup, or a sugar substitute instead of granulated sugar for a different sweetness profile.
Herb-Infused Lemonade: Add fresh herbs like basil, mint, or thyme to the lemonade. You can muddle the herbs before adding them to the pitcher for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover lemonade in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: This is typically served cold, but if you prefer warm lemonade, gently heat it on the stove with a little extra honey or sugar.

FAQs

1. Can I make this lemonade without a simple syrup?

Yes, you can add sugar directly to the lemon juice and water mixture, but dissolving it in hot water (simple syrup) ensures the sugar fully dissolves and prevents any gritty texture in your lemonade.

2. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemons?

For the best flavor, fresh lemons are recommended. However, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch, though it may not have the same bright, fresh flavor.

3. How can I make the lemonade less sweet?

If you prefer a less sweet lemonade, simply use less sugar or add more water to dilute the sweetness.

4. Can I make lemonade in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the lemonade a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving, as some separation may occur.

5. How do I make this lemonade more tart?

If you like your lemonade extra tart, add more lemon juice to the mixture. You can also reduce the sugar to balance the tartness.

6. Can I freeze lemonade?

Yes, you can freeze lemonade in ice cube trays or freezer-safe containers. The frozen lemonade cubes can be used to chill drinks without watering them down!

7. Can I use this recipe to make lemonade concentrate?

Yes, you can make a concentrate by using half the water and sugar, then diluting it when serving. This allows you to adjust the strength of the lemonade to your liking.

8. How can I make this lemonade into a slushie?

To make a slushie, blend the lemonade with ice until it reaches a thick, frozen consistency.

9. How can I make lemonade with less sugar?

Try using a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit, or simply reduce the amount of sugar to taste while adjusting the water to keep the balance of flavors.

Conclusion

This Classic Lemonade is a refreshing and timeless drink that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue, sipping it by the pool, or enjoying a quiet afternoon, it’s the ideal balance of sweet and tangy. Easy to make, customizable to your taste, and so much better than store-bought versions, this lemonade will become your go-to drink for warm days. Enjoy the simple pleasure of homemade lemonade and the burst of citrusy freshness it brings!