The most refreshing drink of all times - fresh squeezed lemonade. Made with just freshly squeezed lemons, sugar and water.
Whip up a batch of this refreshing beverage in just 5 minutes!
Why make this recipe
Fresh squeezed lemonade is the only way to go. For me nothing, but fresh squeezed will do.
It only takes a cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice so as long as you have access to fresh lemons, this beverage can be made year round.
Many recipes call for making a simple syrup by heating the sugar and the water together. I have a shortcut version.
I mix the lemon juice and sugar together first. Once the sugar has fully dissolved, you add the water. This saves time and you don't have to wait for the simple syrup to cool.
Key ingredients
You just need fresh lemons, granulated sugar and water! That's it!
Step by step directions
- Squeeze lemons
- Combine lemon juice and sugar. Stir until sugar is dissolved. This may take a minute or two. It's okay to let it sit for a minute and come back to it and stir again.
- Add water and stir
- Serve over ice with a lemon slice for garnish
Recipe tips
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice. Bottled lemon juice just doesn't have the same taste.
- Taste before serving. I like my lemonade a bit on the tart side, but you may want it a bit sweeter.
- If you are adding ice to the pitcher of lemonade before serving, reduce the amount of water added.
- Unused lemonade can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week
Recipe Faqs
It depends on your lemons, but plan on 5-8 lemons. Lemons vary in size and in the amount of juice they have.
Yes, you can substitute limes and make limeade. Increase the amount of sugar to one cup.
Whip up a batch of this refreshing beverage and then sit back, sip and relax!
More refreshing beverages
You might also want to try these nonalcoholic drinks:
If you make this recipe, I’d love to hear about it! Leave a comment below and snap a picture and tag me on Instagram @beyondthechickencoop
Check out all my delicious beverages!
This recipe was originally posted in June 2016. The photos have been updated as well as the recipe tips and directions. Enjoy!
Fresh Squeezed Lemonade
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice (4-6 lemons)
- ¾ cup sugar
- 2 quarts water
- lemon slices (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Mix lemon juice and sugar together. Stir until sugar is dissolved.
- Add water and stir.
- Serve over ice with lemon slices (if desired)
Notes
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice. Bottled lemon juice just doesn't have the same taste.
- Taste before serving. I like my lemonade a bit on the tart side, but you may want it a bit sweeter.
- If you are adding ice to the pitcher of lemonade before serving, reduce the amount of water added.
- Unused lemonade can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week
David @ Spiced says
Great tip about mixing the lemon juice and sugar together first - that way you can adjust the strength of the lemonade to your personal tastes. This recipe has me ready for summer!!
Fred G says
Fresh lemons make a great drink
Kate @ Framed Cooks says
You know, I don't have a great basic lemonade recipe (and now I do) - my fave is half lemonade, half iced tea! Hello, Summer!
Kathy says
My dad loves that combination too!
Miriam @londonkitchendiaries.com says
Homemade lemonade just tops everything 🙂 It is so easy to make and yet so delicious - the perfect summer drink! I hope we will get a little bit of summer soon as it is still raining every day here in London. 🙂
Kathy says
I hope you get some warm summer days soon!
Kaylene @ The Links Site says
I agree I love homemade lemonade! It's got me dreaming of the warmer weather because we are in the middle of winter here in Australia!
Kathy says
Brrrr....keep warm! Maybe enjoy a glass of cold lemonade by the fire. Or my mom always likes hot lemonade. Just heat up a cup and it will warm you through!
Anu - My Ginger Garlic Kitchen says
Wow this looks so yummy and indulgent! Lemonades are the best summer drinks to quench the thirst. Love that you used freshly squeezed lemon juice.
Kathy says
They are the best on really hot summer days!