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The Ultimate Guide to Old Fashioned Lemonade: A Refreshing Homemade Classic

Old Fashioned Lemonade

This classic old-fashioned lemonade is made with just three simple ingredients and tastes like pure summer sunshine in a glass. Tart, sweet, and refreshingly nostalgic—it’s perfect for hot afternoons, BBQs, or just sipping on the porch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 46 lemons)

  • 1 cup granulated sugar

  • 5 cups cold water (divided)

  • Ice, for serving

  • Lemon slices and fresh mint (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  • Make a Simple Syrup:
    In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup water and the sugar. Heat over medium, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves completely (do not boil). Let cool slightly.

  • Juice the Lemons:
    Roll lemons on the counter to loosen the juice, then cut and juice them until you have 1 cup of lemon juice. Strain out seeds, pulp optional.

  • Combine:
    In a large pitcher, mix the lemon juice and cooled simple syrup. Add the remaining 4 cups of cold water and stir well.

  • Chill and Serve:
    Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes if desired. Serve over ice with optional lemon slices or mint sprigs.

Notes

  • Adjust sweetness: Add more water for a milder lemonade or more lemon juice for a tarter punch.

  • Add fizz: Use sparkling water instead of still for a bubbly version.

  • Make ahead: Store in the fridge for up to 5 days. Stir before serving as settling may occur.

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