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Classic Homemade Lemonade Recipe (Sweet and Tart)

Close-up of a tall, sweating glass filled with ice and homemade lemonade, garnished with a fresh lemon slice.
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Make the best homemade lemonade using fresh lemons and simple syrup for a perfectly balanced, refreshing drink ideal for summer gatherings.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup water (for simple syrup)
  • 1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 4–6 lemons)
  • 3 cups cold water (for dilution)
  • Ice cubes
  • Lemon slices for garnish

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. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.
  2. Squeeze the lemons to yield 1 cup of fresh lemon juice. Strain the juice to remove pulp and seeds.
  3. In a large pitcher, combine the cooled simple syrup and the fresh lemon juice. Stir well.
  4. Add the 3 cups of cold water to the pitcher and stir to combine all ingredients.
  5. Taste the lemonade. Adjust sweetness or tartness by adding a little more simple syrup or lemon juice, if needed.
  6. Chill the lemonade in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.
  7. Serve over ice, garnished with fresh lemon slices.

Notes

  • For a gallon batch, multiply all ingredients by 1.5.
  • For a pink lemonade variation, add 1/4 cup of cranberry juice or a few drops of red food coloring to the mixture.
  • If you are interested in structured eating plans, research meal planning options to complement your refreshing drinks.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cutcooktaste.com/classic-homemade-lemonade-recipe/