Learn how to make the Best Homemade Lemonade Recipe ever with this DIY drink. Made with fresh-squeezed lemons, this quick and easy from scratch drink is perfect for a hot summer day.
Why This Recipe is the Best
If you’ve ever sipped that perfectly sweet-and-tart lemonade from Chick-fil-A or Panera, this homemade version is going to be your new go-to. It's ideal balance of brightness and sweetness, and it's made completely from scratch with just a few simple ingredients. This lemonade is super refreshing, easy to make, and perfect for warm weather, backyard parties, or whenever you're craving a classic, no-fuss drink.
It’s also flexible—you can make it with bottled lemon juice in a pinch (just taste and adjust!) or use fresh-squeezed lemons for the most vibrant flavor. Either way, it’s a win.
Try our other lemonade recipes: creamy lemonade, raspberry lemonade, and blackberry lemonade.
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Key Ingredients
Lemonade is not just lemon water! It's made with freshly squeezed lemons, sugar, water, and ice for the best, tasty, refreshing drink.
- Lemon Juice- Freshly squeezed lemons are the way to go for the zesty flavor you love. You can also use lemon juice, but it won't have as strong of a flavor and you may need to add additional lemon juice.
- Sugar- White granulated sugar gives it just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the zesty lemon flavor.
How to make Homemade Lemonade
In just a few simple steps you will have a refreshing homemade drink made with fresh lemons. Use the pictures for additional aid.
- Add the ice, water, lemon juice, and sugar to a blender.
- Blend on high until the drink is smooth.
- Refrigerate for later of serve immediately for a cool drink or the perfect party beverage.
Hint: If you are serving later, be sure to give the pitcher a mix just in case the ingredients settle.
Tips for Juicing Lemons Like a Pro
Getting the most juice out of your lemons is all about technique! Here are some of our favorite tried-and-true tips to make sure you squeeze every last drop.
- Roll the Lemon on the Counter – Before cutting your lemon, firmly roll it on the counter with the palm of your hand. This helps break down the interior membranes, making the juice flow more easily.
- Use Room Temperature Lemons – Cold lemons are harder to juice. If your lemons have been in the fridge, let them sit at room temperature for a bit.
- Cut Lengthwise, Not Crosswise – Instead of slicing the lemon into round halves, cut it lengthwise (from stem to tip). This exposes more of the juicy segments, making it easier to extract maximum juice.
- Invest in a Hand Lemon Juicer – A good-quality hand juicer (like this one) is worth every penny. It gives you better leverage, keeps seeds out, and ensures you get every drop without all the mess.
Top tip
Did you know one cup of lemon juice is about four to five large lemons? Make sure to plan ahead before making this recipe.
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Recipe
Best Lemonade Recipe Ever
Ingredients
- 1 ¼ cups lemon juice fresh squeezed, from 4-5 large lemons
- 1 cup sugar see note 1
- 5 cups water
- 1 ½ cups ice
Instructions
- Juice lemons (see note 2 for tips to get the most juice from your lemons). Place lemon juice, sugar and water in a blender. Blend on high 1-2 minutes or until the sugar is completely dissolved. Add the ice and blend until desired texture is reached. Serve immediately. To make ahead, wait to add the ice until just before serving.
Video
Notes
- We like our lemonade nice and tart. For a sweeter lemonade, add up to ¼ more sugar.
- To make juicing the lemons easier, we recommend using room temperature lemons and firmly rolling them around on the counter before juicing. This will help you get the most juice from your lemons!
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Mix with a wooden spoon before serving.
- For a fun summer treat, place the prepared lemonade into popsicle molds and freeze.
Nutrition
What Can I add to Homemade Lemonade
Homemade lemonade is so good on its own, but it can be customized with endless add-ins for any mood or occasion! Here are some delicious ideas to elevate your lemonade.
- Fresh Fruit Purees – Blend strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, peaches, or mangoes and stir them into your lemonade for a fruity twist. You'll want to try our Strawberry Brazilian lemonade!
- Herbal Infusions – Add fresh mint, basil, thyme, or rosemary for a refreshing and fragrant touch.
- Bubbles – Mix in sparkling water or club soda for a fizzy version of lemonade.
- Citrus Variety – Combine lemon juice with lime, orange, or grapefruit juice for a tangy citrus medley.
- Sweet Enhancements – Add honey, agave syrup, or a splash of flavored simple syrups like lavender, ginger, or vanilla. You can even add a lemon simple syrup for extra flavor.
- Spicy/Spices – Stir in a pinch of cinnamon, ginger, or even cayenne pepper for a bold, unique flavor. Or try our Thanksgiving Punch.
- Flavored Ice Cubes – Freeze lemonade or fruit juice into ice cubes and add them to your drink for color and flavor as they melt.
- Coconut Water – Swap some of the water for coconut water to create a tropical vibe.
How Long Does Lemonade Last?
This tasty drink lasts in the refrigerator for up to five days. Make sure to stir the pitcher of drink with a wooden spoon before serving. You can also freeze the prepared lemonade into popsicle molds for a fun summer treat.
Andrea says
This homemade lemonade hits the spot. The perfect ratio of sweet and tart.