Easy Homemade Lemonade is the most refreshing drink for spring gatherings or summer time Lemonade Stands. Made with only three ingredients and in under 10 minutes, Homemade Lemonade is a crowd pleaser for both kids and adults. Serve it over ice with fresh lemon slices and a sprig of mint for an extra touch.

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There is nothing more refreshing than a glass of homemade lemonade on a warm day. This simple classic recipe is super easy to make with just a few ingredients and far better than any store-bought lemonade. Whether you are making it for a spring gathering, a summer picnic, backyard bbq or a weekend lemonade stand, this Homemade Lemonade is the perfect balance of tart and sweet.
As the season changes and we start to gather outside more and more, I love all things lemon. There are so many delicious variations of lemonade, adding a little greens with a delicious Sparkling Kale Lemonade or make it a cocktail enjoying our Blackberry Tequila Lemonade or end the night with the perfect Lemon Shortbread Cookie.
Ingredient Notes
Fresh Lemons: Only use fresh lemons for the best flavor. Meyer lemons will give you a sweeter flavor, while regular lemons give you a traditional tart flavor.
Sugar: Granulated sugar dissolves best, but you can substitute honey or another sugar alternative.
How to Make The Best and Easiest Homemade Lemonade
Step 1: Make the Simple Syrup
In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of water and 1 cup of granulated sugar over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely. Remove from the heat and allow the syrup to cool completely.
Step 2: Juice the Lemons
Cut the lemons in half and squeeze the juice by hand or using a juicer until you get 1 cup of lemon juice.
Step 3: Mix the Lemonade
In a large pitcher, combine the fresh lemon juice, cooled simple syrup and the remaining 5 cups of cold water. Stir well!
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Fill the glasses with ice and pour the lemonade over. Garnish each glass with a piece of fresh mint! Enjoy!
Tips for the Best Homemade Lemonade
Sweetness: If you like a sweeter lemonade, increase the amount of simple syrup. If you prefer it more tart, add more lemon juice.
Add Fresh Flavors: Add fresh berries, basil or other fruits or herbs for fun flavors.
Make It In Advance: Homemade lemonade can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
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Easy Homemade Lemonade
Ingredients
- 1 Cup Granulated Sugar
- 1 Cup Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice
- 6 Cups Water Divided
Instructions
Make the Simple Syrup
- In a small saucepan combine 1 cups of granulated sugar and 1 cup of water over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely. Remove from the heat and allow the syrup to cool.
Juice the Lemons
- Cut the lemons in half and squeeze out the juice by hand or a juicer. Juice each lemon until you get 1 cup.
Mix the Lemonade
- In a large pitcher, combined the fresh lemon juice, cooled simple syrup and the additional 5 cups of water; stir well
Serve and Enjoy!
- Fill each glass with ice, pour the lemonade over the ice and garnish with fresh mint leaves. Enjoy!
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