Print

The Best Homemade Classic Fresh Squeezed Lemonade Recipe

A tall glass filled with ice and homemade lemonade, garnished with a bright lemon slice.

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make the ultimate thirst quencher with this easy, classic fresh squeezed lemonade recipe. This sweet and tangy drink is perfect for summer gatherings and requires just three simple ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 46 lemons)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 4 cups cold water

Instructions

  1. Make the simple syrup: Combine the sugar and 1 cup of the cold water in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar completely dissolves. Do not boil. Remove from heat and let the syrup cool completely.
  2. In a large pitcher, combine the cooled simple syrup, the fresh lemon juice, and the remaining 3 cups of cold water.
  3. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
  4. Taste the lemonade. If you prefer it sweeter, add a little more sugar dissolved in a small amount of warm water. If you prefer it tarter, add a splash more lemon juice.
  5. Chill the lemonade in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving over ice.

Notes

  • For a crowd, double or triple this recipe easily. This is the best lemonade for a crowd.
  • To make Pink Lemonade, add 1/4 cup of cranberry juice or a few muddled raspberries to the pitcher.
  • For Peach Lemonade, blend 1 cup of fresh or frozen peaches with 1/2 cup of water and strain the puree into the pitcher before mixing.
  • This recipe makes a great base for other citrus drinks.

Nutrition