Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water (for simple syrup)
- 6–8 lemons, juiced (about 1 1/2 cups juice)
- 5–6 cups cold water (adjust to taste)
- Lemon slices, for garnish (optional)
- Mint sprigs, for garnish (optional)
- Ice cubes, as needed
Instructions
- Step 1: Make a simple syrup by combining the sugar and 1 cup of water in a saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar is completely dissolved. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
- Step 2: Juice the lemons, removing any seeds. You should have about 1 1/2 cups of lemon juice.
- Step 3: In a large pitcher, combine the cooled simple syrup, lemon juice, and 5 cups of cold water. Stir well to combine.
- Step 4: Taste the lemonade and add more water, if needed, to reach your desired sweetness and tartness.
- Step 5: Add ice to the pitcher and stir.
- Step 6: Serve chilled, garnished with lemon slices and mint sprigs, if desired.
Notes
- Store leftover lemonade in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; the flavor is best when freshly made, but it still tastes great later.
- To prevent dilution, freeze leftover lemonade into ice cubes and use them to keep your lemonade cold without watering it down.
- For a refreshing twist, try serving your lemonade with sparkling water instead of still water for a bubbly, celebratory drink.
- Chef's tip: Gently roll lemons on the counter before juicing to help release more juice!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American