Description
A refreshing and classic State Fair Lemonade recipe that is easy to make with simple ingredients like fresh lemon juice, sugar, and water. Perfect for hot days, this homemade lemonade combines a sweet and tangy flavor with optional fresh mint and lemon slices for garnish.
Ingredients
Scale
Syrup
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water (for simple syrup)
Lemonade
- 1 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice (about 4-6 lemons)
- 4 cups cold water
- Ice cubes
- Lemon slices (for garnish)
- Fresh mint (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Make the Simple Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of water with the granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has completely dissolved. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Juice the Lemons: While the syrup cools, squeeze the lemons to extract about 1 cup of fresh lemon juice. Strain to remove seeds and pulp.
- Mix the Lemonade: In a large pitcher, combine the fresh lemon juice with the cooled simple syrup. Add the remaining 4 cups of cold water and stir well.
- Chill the Lemonade: Add ice cubes to the pitcher and stir to cool the mixture. For an extra cold drink, refrigerate for about 30 minutes before serving.
- Serve: Pour the lemonade into glasses filled with ice. Garnish with lemon slices and fresh mint leaves if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your refreshing homemade lemonade!
Notes
- Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of sugar in the simple syrup.
- For a stronger lemon flavor, add some lemon zest while making the syrup and strain before mixing.
- Fresh mint is optional but adds a refreshing touch to the drink.
- Refrigerate leftovers in a covered container and consume within 2 days for best flavor.