Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup white sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup lemon juice (about 8–10 lemons)
- 4 cups cold water
- Lemon slices for garnish (optional)
- Fresh mint sprigs for garnish (optional)
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- Step 1: Combine 1 cup of sugar and 1 cup of water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture comes to a simmer. Remove from heat and let cool completely. This creates a simple syrup.
- Step 2: Juice your lemons. Strain the lemon juice through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any seeds or pulp. You should aim for approximately 1 cup of juice.
- Step 3: In a large pitcher, combine the cooled simple syrup, the lemon juice, and 4 cups of cold water. Stir well to combine.
- Step 4: Taste and adjust sweetness if needed. Add more simple syrup for a sweeter lemonade, or more water for a less sweet version.
- Step 5: Pour the lemonade into glasses filled with ice.
- Step 6: Garnish with lemon slices and/or fresh mint sprigs, if desired.
Notes
- Store leftover lemonade in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This lemonade is best served chilled, but doesn't need reheating; simply add more ice if it warms up.
- For an extra special touch, rim your glasses with sugar before pouring in the ice-cold lemonade.
- To get the most juice from your lemons, roll them firmly on a countertop before juicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American