Old Fashioned Lemonade Recipe

Granulated sugar: This is used to create the simple syrup, which sweetens the lemonade.

Water: Used both for the simple syrup and to dilute the lemon juice to the perfect consistency.

Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is key for the authentic taste of old fashioned 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, when squeezing lemons, roll them on the countertop with your palm to break down the internal membranes, making it easier to extract more juice.

• granulated sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey provides a natural sweetness and can add a slightly different flavor profile to the lemonade.

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

• water - Substitute with sparkling water: Sparkling water can add a refreshing fizz to the lemonade, making it more exciting and bubbly.

• freshly squeezed lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice offers a similar tartness and acidity, providing a different citrus twist to the lemonade.

• freshly squeezed lemon juice - Substitute with lemon extract: Lemon extract can be used in smaller quantities to provide a concentrated lemon flavor if fresh lemons are not available.

• cold water - Substitute with coconut water: Coconut water adds a subtle sweetness and additional nutrients, enhancing the overall flavor and health benefits of the lemonade.

• cold water - Substitute with iced tea: Iced tea can add a unique flavor dimension, creating a refreshing lemon iced tea beverage.

• To store your old fashioned lemonade, pour it into a clean, airtight pitcher or container. This will help maintain its freshness and prevent any unwanted flavors from seeping in.
• Place the container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, your lemonade will stay fresh for up to 5-7 days. Always give it a good stir before serving to ensure the flavors are well mixed.
• If you want to freeze your lemonade, pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving about an inch of space at the top to allow for expansion. This will prevent the container from cracking.
• For a fun twist, consider freezing the lemonade in ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag. These lemonade cubes can be added to drinks without diluting the flavor.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw the lemonade in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re in a hurry, you can place the container in a bowl of cold water to speed up the process.
• Always taste your lemonade after thawing. Sometimes freezing can slightly alter the flavor, so you might want to add a bit more lemon juice or simple syrup to adjust the taste.

• Pour the lemonade into a small saucepan and heat over low to medium heat. Stir occasionally until it reaches your desired temperature. Be careful not to boil it, as this can alter the taste.
• Alternatively, you can microwave the lemonade in a microwave-safe container. Heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until it is warm enough. Again, avoid overheating to preserve the fresh lemon juice flavor.
• If you prefer a more gentle method, place the lemonade in a heatproof container and set it in a larger bowl filled with hot water. Let it sit until it warms up to your liking. This method ensures even heating without the risk of overheating.
• For a unique twist, add a few slices of fresh lemon or citrus fruits to the lemonade while reheating. This will enhance the flavor and aroma, making it even more refreshing.

• Small saucepan: Used to combine sugar and water to create the simple syrup.

• Stirring spoon: Essential for stirring the sugar and water mixture until the sugar dissolves.

• Pitcher: Used to mix the chilled syrup, lemon juice, and cold water together.

• Juicer: Handy for extracting fresh lemon juice from the lemons.

• Strainer: Helps to remove seeds from the lemon juice while keeping the pulp.

• Measuring cup: Necessary for accurately measuring the sugar, water, and lemon juice.

• Refrigerator: Used to chill the simple syrup until it is ready to be mixed with the other ingredients.

• Ice cube tray: For making ice cubes to serve the lemonade over.

• Serving glasses: Used to serve the lemonade once it is prepared.

• Knife: Useful for cutting the lemons in half before juicing them.

Prepare the simple syrup in advance: Make a larger batch of simple syrup and store it in the fridge for future use. This way, you can quickly mix up a batch of lemonade whenever you want.

Use bottled lemon juice: If you're short on time, use high-quality bottled lemon juice instead of squeezing fresh lemons. It saves time and still tastes great.

Pre-chill the water: Keep a jug of cold water in the fridge so you can mix it with the syrup and lemon juice immediately, without waiting for it to chill.

Use a blender: Blend the lemon juice, simple syrup, and cold water together for a quick and even mix.