Homemade Lemonade

5 from 21 votes

There's nothing more refreshing on a hot day than a pitcher of simple homemade lemonade. Make your own lemonade recipe from scratch and enjoy within minutes

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This easy homemade lemonade recipe is the best refreshing summer drink! Made with simple ingredients, it’s simple to make a pitcher to cool down on hot days. Skip the store bought lemonade and try making it from scratch!

Homemade lemonade in a cup with glass jug in the background and lemons on the side
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RECIPE VIDEO TUTORIAL

How to make homemade lemonade

  • Make the simple syrup by combining the water and sugar and heating it until the sugar dissolves.
  • Add the simple syrup to a pitcher.
  • Pour over the lemon juice.
  • Top with water.
  • Serve and combine.
Step by step process shots for how to make lemonade from scratch

Tips for making best lemonade

  1. Adjust the sweetness by making more simple syrup. I use a 1:1 ratio for the simple syrup, so if you want to sweeten it, use ¾ cup sugar or 1 cup sugar and the same amount of water.
  2. Use fresh lemon juice, not bottled. It is much zingier in flavor and also contains more vitamin C.
  3. Use fruit ice cubes to add more fruit flavor. I make these by simply adding any fruit to ice cube trays, filling with water and then freezing. They are so cute for serving drinks in the summer.
  4. Add rose water or orange blossom water for a more fragrant taste. These are made by steeping rose petals or orange blossom petals in water. You can buy a bottle of them at Middle Eastern stores, and they add a fresh sweet taste without added sugar. It’s a very popular way of making Lemonade in the Middle East.

Frequently asked questions

How long does homemade lemonade last?

Once you have made the pitcher, place it in the fridge and it will keep well for 5 to 7 days. I like to cover it with plastic wrap while it sits.

Why do you use cane sugar in this recipe?

I prefer to use cane sugar in my lemonade as it is not as processed as granulated sugar. It has a slightly deeper taste as it contains more molasses. If you only have granulated sugar, you can make a straight swap as they are very similar in sweetness.

Can you make this lemonade sparking?

If you prefer your lemonade to have a little fizz, you can use sparkling water. However, if you are using sparkling water or soda water, only add it to the concentrate when you are ready to serve so that it doesn’t go flat.

Clear jug of lemonade with fresh slices of lemons

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Homemade Lemonade

There's nothing more refreshing on a hot day than a pitcher of simple homemade lemonade. Make your own lemonade recipe from scratch and enjoy within minutes
5 from 21 votes
Servings 4 servings
Course Beverages
Calories 110
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes

Video

Ingredients
  

  • ½ cup cane sugar
  • 4 cups water divided
  • 1 tablespoon rose water optional
  • 1 cup lemon juice about 4-6 lemons

Instructions

  • Start by making a simple syrup by combining ½ cup water and sugar in a small saucepan over medium high heat. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer, stirring occasionally until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is thickened but still clear colored, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat, add the rose water.
  • Pour the simple syrup into a serving pitcher. Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice on top along with the remaining 3 cups of water. Stir to combine and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  • When ready to serve, add ice cubes and sliced lemons

Notes

Storage: Store the lemonade in the fridge for up to 7 days.

Nutrition

Calories: 110kcal, Carbohydrates: 29g, Protein: 1g, Fat: 1g, Saturated Fat: 1g, Sodium: 13mg, Potassium: 63mg, Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 26g, Vitamin C: 24mg, Calcium: 11mg, Iron: 1mg

Nutrition information provided is an estimate. It will vary based on cooking method and specific ingredients used.

Cuisine American
Course: Beverages

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Comments

  1. Loved the addition of Rosé Water or Orange blossom. I like to add a pinch of salt to cut the tartness too.
    Looooved the TikTok creamy one. It’s addictive but dangerous and tastes like a liquid lemon or key lime pie. Delicious!!!

    1. It’s a unique twist! Love the idea of adding salt too. I can’t get enough of the Creamy Lemonade either!!