Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe uses just a few basic ingredients to create a fresh, natural flavor that’s far better than store-bought versions. It’s easy to adjust the sweetness and tartness to your liking, and it’s perfect for hot days, gatherings, or everyday refreshment.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Fresh lemon juice
- Granulated sugar
- Cold water
- Ice
- Lemon slices for garnish (optional)
Directions
Start by making a simple syrup. In a small saucepan, combine sugar with a bit of water and heat gently until the sugar is completely dissolved. Let it cool.
In a large pitcher, combine fresh lemon juice with the cooled simple syrup.
Add cold water and stir well to combine. Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness as needed by adding more sugar or lemon juice.
Chill the lemonade in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes for best flavor.
Serve over ice and garnish with lemon slices if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 4 to 6 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Chill time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Variations
Add fresh mint leaves for a refreshing herbal twist.
Mix in strawberries, raspberries, or peaches for a fruity version.
Use sparkling water instead of still water for a fizzy lemonade.
For a lighter option, reduce the sugar or use honey as a natural sweetener.
Storage/Reheating
Store lemonade in a covered pitcher in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Stir before serving, as ingredients may settle over time.
This drink is not meant to be reheated and is best served cold.
FAQs
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled can be used if needed.
How do I balance sweetness and tartness?
Adjust by adding more sugar for sweetness or more lemon juice for tartness.
Can I skip the simple syrup?
You can mix sugar directly, but simple syrup dissolves more evenly.
How long does homemade lemonade last?
It stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, it’s actually better after chilling for a bit.
Is this drink healthy?
It can be, especially if you control the amount of sugar used.
Can I freeze lemonade?
Yes, you can freeze it and even turn it into ice cubes or slush.
What’s the best water to use?
Cold, filtered water gives the best clean taste.
Can I add other flavors?
Yes, herbs and fruits pair well with lemonade.
Why does it taste bitter sometimes?
Too much lemon pulp or rind can add bitterness, so strain if needed.
Conclusion
Old fashioned lemonade is a simple, refreshing classic that never goes out of style. With its bright citrus flavor and customizable sweetness, it’s the perfect drink to cool down and enjoy any time.
PrintOld Fashioned Lemonade
A classic old fashioned lemonade made with fresh lemon juice, sugar, and water for a perfectly balanced sweet and tangy refreshment. Simple, crisp, and ideal for any warm day.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Mixed
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 4 cups cold water
- Ice
- Lemon slices for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, combine sugar with 1/2 cup water and heat gently until fully dissolved. Let cool.
- In a pitcher, combine fresh lemon juice with the cooled simple syrup.
- Add remaining cold water and stir well.
- Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness as desired.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to chill.
- Serve over ice and garnish with lemon slices if desired.
Notes
- Adjust sugar to taste depending on lemon tartness.
- Use honey as a natural sweetener alternative.
- Add mint or fruit for variation.
- Stir before serving if separation occurs.
- Best consumed within 3 days.
- Use filtered water for best flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 glass
- Calories: 90 kcal
- Sugar: 22 g
- Sodium: 5 mg
- Fat: 0 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
