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Homemade Lemonade[cite: 1]

Homemade Lemonade[cite: 1]

We are going to make the most incredible homemade lemonade.[cite: 1] We will create the perfect balance of tart and sweet using a quick simple syrup and freshly squeezed citrus.[cite: 1]
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Beverages
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 cup Granulated sugar[cite: 1] Provides a clean, neutral sweetness.[cite: 1]
  • 1 cup Water (for syrup)[cite: 1] Use filtered water for the best taste.[cite: 1]
  • 7 cups Cold water (for lemonade)[cite: 1] Keep chilled until ready to assemble.[cite: 1]
  • 1 1/2 cups Freshly squeezed lemon juice[cite: 1] Requires about 8 medium or 6 large lemons.[cite: 1]

Instructions
 

  • Combine your one cup of water with the granulated sugar in a small, heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat.[cite: 1] Stir the mixture gently but consistently to encourage the sugar crystals to dissolve, keeping it at a gentle simmer.[cite: 1] Once the liquid turns completely clear, remove it from the heat and let this simple syrup cool down to room temperature.[cite: 1]
  • Place your lemons on a sturdy cutting board, press down firmly with the palm of your hand, and roll the lemon back and forth to soften it.[cite: 1] Cut the lemons directly in half crosswise and use a handheld citrus reamer or a juicer to extract exactly one and a half cups of juice.[cite: 1] Strain the juice through a fine mesh sieve into a large measuring cup to catch any unwanted bits.[cite: 1]
  • Pour your cooled simple syrup and your freshly squeezed, strained lemon juice into a large glass pitcher and give it a quick stir.[cite: 1] Pour in the seven cups of perfectly cold water and use a long wooden spoon to mix everything thoroughly.[cite: 1]
  • Keep the pitcher perfectly chilled in your refrigerator.[cite: 1] When you are ready to serve, fill tall glasses right to the brim with fresh ice cubes and pour the cold lemonade directly over the ice.[cite: 1]

Notes

You can garnish your glasses for an extra touch of elegance with a thin slice of fresh lemon or a sprig of fresh mint.[cite: 1] The simple syrup can be made well ahead of time and stored in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to three weeks.[cite: 1] Leftover lemonade can also be stored covered in the refrigerator and will remain bright and fresh for about five days.[cite: 1]
Keyword Lemonade, Summer Drink