Print

The Ultimate Classic Fresh Squeezed Lemonade Recipe

Close-up of a tall glass filled with bubbly, ice-cold lemonade and several bright yellow lemon slices.

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make the best summer drink with this easy homemade lemonade recipe. You get the perfect sweet and tangy balance using fresh lemons and a simple syrup method.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups fresh lemon juice (about 8-10 large lemons)
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 cups water (for simple syrup)
  • 4 cups cold water (for mixing)
  • Ice and lemon slices for serving

Instructions

  1. Make the simple syrup: Combine the 2 cups of sugar and 2 cups of water in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar completely dissolves. Do not boil. Remove from heat and let the syrup cool completely.
  2. Squeeze your lemons to yield 2 cups of fresh lemon juice. Strain the juice to remove pulp and seeds.
  3. In a large pitcher, combine the cooled simple syrup and the 2 cups of fresh lemon juice. Stir well.
  4. Add the remaining 4 cups of cold water to the pitcher and stir everything together. This is your classic lemonade base.
  5. Taste the lemonade. If you prefer it sweeter, add a little more simple syrup (if you have extra). If you prefer it tarter, add a splash more lemon juice.
  6. Chill the lemonade in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. Serve over plenty of ice with fresh lemon slices for a truly refreshing summer drink.

Notes

  • For a natural pink lemonade variation, add 1/4 cup of pure cranberry juice or a few muddled raspberries to the pitcher.
  • If you are making lemonade for a crowd, simply double or triple the recipe proportions.
  • This recipe uses a homemade syrup for the best flavor, which is key to a sweet and tangy lemonade.

Nutrition