Description
State Fair Lemonade is a classic, refreshing homemade drink featuring fresh squeezed lemon juice, a simple sugar syrup, and chilled water. Perfect for hot days, it’s easy to prepare and can be garnished with lemon slices and fresh mint for an extra burst of flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Simple Syrup
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
Lemonade
- 1 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice (about 4-6 lemons)
- 4 cups cold water
- Ice cubes, as needed
- 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 dissolves completely. Remove from the heat and set aside to cool. This syrup sweetens the lemonade without the graininess of undissolved sugar.
- Juice the Lemons: While the syrup cools, squeeze the lemons to yield about 1 cup of fresh lemon juice. Strain the juice to remove seeds and pulp for a smooth drink.
- 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 to blend all flavors evenly.
- Chill the Lemonade: Add ice cubes to the pitcher to cool the lemonade immediately. For colder lemonade, refrigerate the mixture for about 30 minutes before serving.
- Serve: Pour the lemonade into glasses filled with ice cubes. Garnish with lemon slices and fresh mint leaves if desired. Serve right away for the best refreshing taste.
Notes
- Adjust the sugar quantity if you prefer your lemonade more or less sweet.
- For an extra tangy flavor, add some lemon zest to the simple syrup while heating.
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor; bottled lemon juice can alter the taste.
- Optional garnishes like mint enhance the flavor and presentation.
- Store leftover lemonade in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; stir before serving.
