Description
This classic Old Fashioned Lemonade recipe delivers a perfectly balanced, refreshing drink featuring freshly squeezed lemons and a homemade lemon-infused simple syrup. The syrup is gently heated with lemon zest to deepen the citrus flavor, then combined with cold water and ice for a cool, tangy beverage perfect for any warm day.
Ingredients
Scale
Lemon Syrup
- Peel from 3–4 lemons (yellow zest only, avoid white pith)
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 4–6 lemons)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
To Serve
- 5–6 cups cold water (adjust to taste)
- Ice cubes
- Lemon slices (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the lemon zest: Peel 3 to 4 lemons carefully, removing only the yellow zest and avoiding the bitter white pith underneath. This zest will be used to infuse extra lemon flavor into your syrup.
- Make the lemon syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine the freshly squeezed lemon juice, granulated sugar, and the lemon peels you prepared. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar completely dissolves and the liquid is hot but not boiling. This allows the syrup to absorb the zest’s bright flavor. Once done, remove the pan from heat and allow the syrup to cool to room temperature.
- Strain and mix: Strain the cooled syrup into a large pitcher to remove the lemon peels. Add 5 to 6 cups of cold water along with plenty of ice cubes. Stir well, then taste your lemonade and adjust the sweetness or water volume to your preference.
- Serve and garnish: Serve the lemonade immediately over ice or refrigerate to chill. For a decorative and flavorful touch, garnish with fresh lemon slices and mint leaves if desired.
Notes
- Adjust the sugar amount based on your sweetness preference or the tartness of your lemons.
- For a stronger lemon flavor, allow the syrup to infuse longer before straining.
- This lemonade is best served fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 2 days.
- Use fresh lemons rather than bottled lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Optional garnishes add a nice visual appeal and a hint of freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Old Fashioned Lemonade, Lemonade Recipe, Homemade Lemonade, Fresh Lemon Juice, Summer Drink, Classic Lemonade
