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The Ultimate Homemade Lemonade Recipe: Classic Fresh Squeezed and Summer Variations

A tall glass filled with homemade lemonade and plenty of ice cubes, glistening in the sunlight.

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Learn how to make the best homemade lemonade with this classic, fresh squeezed recipe. This guide also includes simple steps for making refreshing Pink Lemonade and Peach Lemonade, perfect for backyard BBQs and hot summer days.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 46 lemons)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 4 cups cold water
  • Ice cubes for serving
  • Optional: 1/2 cup peach puree or 1/4 cup raspberry puree for variations

Instructions

  1. Make the simple syrup: Combine the sugar and 1 cup 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. Combine ingredients: In a large pitcher, mix the cooled simple syrup, the fresh lemon juice, and the remaining 3 cups of cold water. Stir well to combine.
  3. Taste and adjust: 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.
  4. Chill: Cover the pitcher and chill the lemonade in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  5. Serve: Serve the classic lemonade over plenty of ice.
  6. For Peach Lemonade: Stir 1/2 cup of peach puree into the finished classic lemonade mixture before chilling.
  7. For Pink Lemonade: Stir 1/4 cup of raspberry puree or a few drops of natural red food coloring into the finished classic lemonade mixture before chilling.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemons for the best sweet and tart beverage flavor.
  • To make lemonade for a crowd, multiply the base recipe ingredients by two or three.
  • For a sparkling lemonade, substitute 1 cup of the cold water with club soda or sparkling water just before serving.

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