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Classic Fresh Squeezed Lemonade

Close-up of a tall, sweating glass filled with bright yellow homemade lemonade and ice cubes, sitting in sunlight.

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Make a refreshing pitcher of classic lemonade using fresh lemons, sugar, and water. This recipe yields a tart and sweet drink perfect for summer.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 lemons
  • 1 cup white granulated sugar
  • 1 cup hot water (for simple syrup)
  • 4 cups cold water
  • Ice cubes

Instructions

  1. Prepare the simple syrup: Combine the sugar and 1 cup of hot water in a bowl. Stir until the sugar completely dissolves. Let it cool slightly.
  2. Squeeze the lemons to yield fresh lemon juice. You should aim for about 1 cup of juice. Strain the juice to remove pulp and seeds.
  3. In a large pitcher, combine the fresh lemon juice and the cooled simple syrup.
  4. Add 4 cups of cold water to the pitcher and stir well to combine all ingredients.
  5. Taste the lemonade. If you prefer it sweeter, add a little more simple syrup. If you prefer it tarter, add a splash more lemon juice.
  6. Chill the lemonade in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving over ice.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, use filtered water.
  • If you want pink lemonade, add 1/4 cup of cranberry juice or a few drops of red food coloring to the mixture.
  • To make peach lemonade, muddle 1/2 cup of fresh peach slices and add them to the pitcher before chilling.

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