Classic Tart Lemonade
This refreshing Classic Tart Lemonade is a summer staple that brings joy to sizzling hot days. Made with vibrant, fresh-squeezed lemon juice, this homemade beverage offers the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. Whether served at a backyard barbecue or enjoyed as a midday thrill, it's sure to be a hit with everyone. I personally love a little extra lemon juice for that delightful tart zing, making this a favorite not just for the kids, but for anyone needing a burst of summer flavor. Quick, easy, and utterly delicious—this recipe guarantees that your lemonade stand will run out quickly!
8
Servings
60
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
Fresh squeezed lemon juice
1.5 (Juiced from fresh lemons)
Ice cold water
7 (Chilled)
Granulated sugar
1 (Granulated)
Lemons
2 (Sliced for garnish)
Instructions
1
Begin by juicing fresh lemons until you have 1 1/2 cups of lemon juice. Strain to remove any seeds and pulp if desired.
2
In a large pitcher, combine the fresh lemon juice with 1 cup of granulated sugar. Stir well until the sugar is completely dissolved.
3
Gradually add in the 7 cups of ice-cold water, mixing thoroughly to ensure a smooth blend.
4
Slice the additional lemons into rounds and add them to the pitcher for a decorative touch and extra flavor.
5
Serve the lemonade over ice in chilled glasses and enjoy the refreshing taste of summer!
Nutrition Information
15g
Sugar
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make Classic Tart Lemonade?
To make this lemonade, juice fresh lemons to get 1.5 cups of juice, mix it with 1 cup of granulated sugar in a pitcher until dissolved, then stir in 7 cups of ice-cold water.
How many lemons do I need for 1.5 cups of juice?
On average, you will need about 6 to 9 medium-sized lemons to produce 1.5 cups of fresh juice.
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
While fresh-squeezed juice provides the best tart flavor, you can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch; just ensure it is 100% juice.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.
How many calories are in a serving of this lemonade?
Each serving contains approximately 60 calories.
Is this lemonade recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe uses plant-based ingredients (lemons, sugar, and water) and is suitable for a vegan diet.
How much sugar is in each serving?
There are 15 grams of sugar per serving in this recipe.
Can I make this lemonade sugar-free?
Yes, you can substitute the granulated sugar with a sugar-free sweetener like stevia or monk fruit, adjusting the amount to taste.
How long does homemade lemonade last in the fridge?
When stored in a sealed pitcher, this lemonade will stay fresh in the refrigerator for 5 to 7 days.
Should I strain the lemon juice?
Straining is recommended if you prefer a smooth drink without seeds or excess pulp, but it is optional based on your preference.
What is the best way to ensure the sugar dissolves?
Stir the sugar into the lemon juice thoroughly before adding the cold water, or create a simple syrup by heating the sugar with a small amount of water first.
Can I add other fruits to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can add muddled strawberries, raspberries, or even peaches to create delicious fruit-flavored variations.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Yes, it is a very family-friendly beverage that is a classic favorite for children.
Can I use honey instead of granulated sugar?
Yes, honey is a great natural alternative. You may need to use slightly less honey than sugar as it is sweeter.
How can I make the lemonade less tart?
If the lemonade is too tart for your taste, simply add a bit more water or a small amount of extra sugar until it reaches your desired balance.
What if I want it even more tart?
You can increase the amount of fresh lemon juice or slightly decrease the amount of sugar for a more intense zing.
Can I make this lemonade sparkling?
Yes, simply replace the 7 cups of cold water with chilled club soda or sparkling water right before serving.
Should I add the ice directly to the pitcher?
It is best to serve the lemonade over ice in individual glasses to prevent the main batch from becoming diluted as the ice melts.
Can I freeze this lemonade?
Yes, you can freeze it in popsicle molds or as ice cubes to use in future drinks without watering them down.
How do I prepare the lemon garnish?
Simply slice two additional lemons into thin rounds and float them in the pitcher or place them on the rims of the glasses.
Can I add fresh herbs?
Fresh mint, basil, or rosemary are excellent additions that pair beautifully with the tart lemon flavor.
What kind of water should I use?
Filtered, ice-cold water is recommended for the cleanest and most refreshing taste.
Does this recipe contain any fat or protein?
No, this lemonade recipe is fat-free and contains no protein.
Can I make a large batch for a party?
Yes, you can easily double or triple the ingredients to accommodate larger groups.
How do I get the most juice out of my lemons?
Roll the lemons on the counter with firm pressure before cutting, or microwave them for 10-15 seconds to help release the juices.
Can I use brown sugar?
You can, but it will change the color of the lemonade to a brownish hue and add a slight molasses flavor.
Is it okay to leave the lemon slices in the pitcher overnight?
It is better to remove them if storing overnight, as the lemon rinds can eventually release bitter oils into the drink.
What size pitcher do I need?
You will need a pitcher that holds at least 2.5 quarts (about 10 cups) to fit the juice, water, sugar, and garnishes.
Can I use this recipe to make 'hard' lemonade?
Yes, adults can add a splash of vodka or gin to their individual glasses for a spiked version.
What makes this recipe 'classic'?
It uses the traditional three-ingredient ratio of juice, sugar, and water without artificial flavors or concentrates.