Old Fashioned Lemonade Recipe

Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed from about 4-6 lemons, providing the tartness and flavor base for the lemonade.

Sugar: Used to create a simple syrup that sweetens the lemonade.

Water: Combined with the lemon juice and simple syrup to dilute the mixture and make it drinkable.

Ice cubes: Added to the pitcher to chill the lemonade and keep it refreshing.

Lemon slices: Optional garnish that adds visual appeal and a hint of extra lemon flavor.

Mint leaves: Optional garnish that adds a fresh, aromatic touch to the lemonade.

When making simple syrup, ensure that the sugar is fully dissolved in the water before removing it from the heat. This will prevent any graininess in your lemonade. Additionally, for a more intense lemon flavor, you can zest one of the lemons and add the zest to the simple syrup while it heats, then strain it out before mixing with the lemon juice.

• fresh lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice provides a similar tartness and acidity, making it a good alternative to lemon juice.

• sugar - Substitute with agave syrup: Agave syrup is a natural sweetener that dissolves easily in cold liquids and has a lower glycemic index than sugar.

• sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup adds a unique flavor and is a natural sweetener that can be used in place of sugar.

• cold water - Substitute with coconut water: Coconut water adds a subtle sweetness and additional electrolytes, making the lemonade more refreshing.

• ice cubes - Substitute with frozen fruit cubes: Frozen fruit cubes, such as frozen berries or mango, can cool the lemonade while adding extra flavor.

• lemon slices - Substitute with lime slices: Lime slices provide a similar visual appeal and a complementary tart flavor.

• mint leaves - Substitute with basil leaves: Basil leaves offer a different but equally refreshing herbal note that pairs well with citrus flavors.

• Refrigeration:

  • Pour the lemonade into an airtight container or a glass pitcher with a lid.
  • Store it in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days.
  • Before serving, give it a good stir to ensure the simple syrup is well mixed.

• Freezing:

  • Pour the lemonade into ice cube trays and freeze until solid.
  • Once frozen, transfer the lemonade cubes to a freezer-safe bag or container.
  • These lemonade cubes can be used to chill your drink without diluting it, or you can thaw them to enjoy later.
  • For a refreshing twist, add a few mint leaves or lemon slices to the ice cube trays before freezing.

• Prepping for a Party:

  • Make a large batch of simple syrup and store it in the refrigerator.
  • Squeeze fresh lemon juice and store it separately in an airtight container.
  • When ready to serve, combine the simple syrup, lemon juice, and cold water in a large pitcher.
  • Add ice cubes and garnish with lemon slices and mint leaves for a festive touch.

• Transporting:

  • If you need to take your lemonade to a picnic or gathering, pour it into a large, insulated beverage dispenser.
  • Keep the dispenser in a cooler with ice packs to maintain its chill.
  • Bring extra lemon slices and mint leaves in a separate container for on-the-spot garnishing.

• Flavor Enhancements:

  • For a fruity twist, freeze berries or fruit slices along with the lemonade cubes.
  • Add a splash of sparkling water or club soda before serving for a fizzy version.
  • Infuse the simple syrup with herbs like rosemary or basil for a unique flavor profile.

• Pour the lemonade into a heat-safe pitcher or container.
• Place the container in the microwave and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes. Stir and check the temperature; continue heating in 30-second intervals if necessary.
• Alternatively, pour the lemonade into a saucepan and warm over low heat on the stove. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
• If you prefer a chilled drink, skip reheating and simply add fresh ice cubes and garnish with lemon slices and mint leaves.
• For a twist, consider adding a splash of sparkling water or club soda to the reheated lemonade for a fizzy refreshment.

• Small saucepan: Used to combine sugar and water to create a simple syrup by heating over medium heat.

• Large pitcher: Used to mix the lemon juice, simple syrup, and cold water together.

• Stirring spoon: Used to stir the mixture in the pitcher to ensure everything is well combined.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the lemon juice, sugar, and water accurately.

• Citrus juicer: Used to extract fresh lemon juice from the lemons.

• Cutting board: Used as a surface to cut the lemons.

• Knife: Used to cut the lemons for juicing and for garnish.

• Ice cube tray: Used to make ice cubes that will be added to the pitcher.

• Serving glasses: Used to serve the lemonade.

• Optional garnish tools: Used to add lemon slices and mint leaves for garnish.

Pre-squeeze lemons: Squeeze all your lemons ahead of time and store the lemon juice in the fridge. This saves time when you're ready to make the lemonade.

Make simple syrup in bulk: Prepare a larger batch of simple syrup and store it in the fridge. This way, you can quickly mix up more lemonade whenever you need it.

Use bottled lemon juice: If you're in a hurry, use high-quality bottled lemon juice instead of squeezing fresh lemons.

Chill water in advance: Keep a jug of cold water in the fridge so you can mix your lemonade immediately without waiting for it to cool.