Old-fashioned lemonade is a simple, natural beverage made with fresh lemons, sugar, and water. It has been a popular drink for generations due to its refreshing taste and easy preparation. This classic recipe uses basic ingredients to create a balanced, sweet-tart flavor without artificial additives.
This guide explains how to make old-fashioned lemonade, the benefits of homemade lemonade, and answers common questions old-fashioned lemonade recipe.
Ingredients for Old-Fashioned Lemonade
The key ingredients include:
- Fresh lemons (approximately 6 medium lemons for 1 quart of lemonade)
- Granulated sugar (about 1 cup, adjustable to taste)
- Cold water (about 4 cups)
- Ice cubes (optional for serving)
Using fresh lemons ensures natural flavor and vitamin C content.
Step-by-Step Old-Fashioned Lemonade Recipe
1. Prepare the Lemons
Wash the lemons thoroughly. Roll each lemon on the countertop with slight pressure to loosen the juice. Cut lemons in half.
2. Extract the Juice
Use a citrus juicer or manual hand-squeezing to extract juice from all lemon halves. Remove seeds to avoid bitterness.
3. Make Simple Syrup
Combine 1 cup of sugar and 1 cup of water in a saucepan. Heat gently while stirring until sugar dissolves completely. Let the syrup cool.
4. Mix Lemon Juice and Syrup
In a pitcher, combine fresh lemon juice and simple syrup. Stir well.
5. Add Water
Pour 3 cups of cold water into the pitcher. Stir to dilute the mixture evenly.
6. Taste and Adjust
Taste the lemonade and adjust sweetness or tartness by adding more water or syrup as desired.
7. Serve
Serve over ice cubes in glasses. Garnish with lemon slices or fresh mint if preferred.
Tips for the Best Old-Fashioned Lemonade
- Use ripe lemons with bright yellow skin for maximum juice and flavor.
- Make simple syrup in advance and store in the refrigerator for convenience.
- For a fizz, add sparkling water instead of still water.
- Avoid pre-squeezed lemon juice to prevent loss of freshness and flavor.
- Keep lemonade refrigerated and consume within 2-3 days for best quality.
FAQ: Old-Fashioned Lemonade Recipe
How much juice do lemons yield on average?
A medium lemon yields about 2 to 3 tablespoons of juice.
Can I use honey instead of sugar?
Yes. Heat honey with water to create a syrup, but adjust quantity as honey is sweeter than sugar.
How long does homemade lemonade last?
Refrigerated lemonade is best consumed within 2 to 3 days.
Is old-fashioned lemonade healthy?
It provides vitamin C from fresh lemons but contains added sugar, so consumption should be moderate.
Can I make lemonade without heating sugar?
Yes. Stir sugar into warm water or dissolve it with lemon juice, but heating ensures complete dissolution.
Conclusion
The old-fashioned lemonade recipe is a straightforward method to prepare a refreshing, natural drink with simple ingredients. Using fresh lemon juice and homemade syrup creates a balanced flavor that is both sweet and tart.
This classic beverage offers a healthier alternative to store-bought drinks with artificial ingredients. Following the steps ensures a consistent and delicious lemonade ideal for warm weather or anytime refreshment.
