Homemade Lemonade is a refreshing drink made with fresh lemon juice, water, and sugar. It’s perfect for hot days and easy to make at home with simple ingredients.
I like to add a few mint leaves or slices of lemon for extra flavor. Sometimes I put in a little bit of honey instead of sugar—it’s sweet and natural!
For a cool twist, serve it over ice and enjoy. Making lemonade at home lets you adjust the sweetness just the way you like it.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Lemons: I recommend using ripe, bright yellow lemons for the best flavor—look for firm lemons with smooth skin. If lemons are hard to find, bottled lemon juice can work, but fresh is much brighter and more natural.
Sugar: Regular granulated sugar dissolves best when warm; I like to heat the water slightly to help it blend. For a healthier twist, honey or agave syrup are good substitutes, but adjust the amount to taste.
Cold Water: Use cold, clean water for a refreshing taste. If you want more flavor, add a splash of sparkling water later. You can also replace some water with a little ice or cold tea for variation.
Lemon Zest (optional): A teaspoon of zest adds a bright citrus aroma. Be sure to only grate the yellow part and not the bitter white pith. Lime zest or even a splash of orange juice can give a fun twist.
How do I make sure the lemonade is perfectly sweet and tart?
Start by dissolving sugar in a small amount of warm water until clear. Taste the simple syrup. It should be sweet but not overpowering. Then, add lemon juice gradually, tasting as you go, until you reach your preferred balance.
How to Make Homemade Lemonade?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Juice and Sweeteners
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4-6 lemons)
- 1/2 to 3/4 cup granulated sugar (to taste)
- 4 cups cold water
- Ice cubes (as needed)
How Much Time Will You Need?
10 minutes prep time, no cooking needed, plus time to chill in the fridge if desired.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Juice the Lemons
Squeeze the lemons to get about 1 cup of fresh lemon juice. Remove seeds and strain if needed.
2. Make the Lemonade Base
In a small bowl, stir the sugar with a few tablespoons of warm water until dissolved. Mix with lemon juice.
3. Combine and Adjust
Pour the lemon mixture into a pitcher. Add remaining cold water and stir well. Taste and add more sugar if needed.
4. Chill and Serve
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Serve over ice cubes for a refreshing drink.
