Craving a refreshing homemade beverage on a hot summer day? Ditch the grocery store-bought lemonade and whip up a gallon of the real deal using fresh lemons! This easy homemade lemonade recipe uses simple ingredients and perfectly balances sweet and tart.
Beat the summer heat with the perfect pitcher of homemade lemonade! This simple and easy-to-make recipe uses fresh-squeezed lemons, just like they did in the old-fashioned days.
While store-bought lemonade and concentrate might seem like convenient options, they often lack the fresh flavors and nutritional value of real lemons.
This easy lemonade recipe uses simple ingredients to create a gallon of delicious lemonade, perfect for a large group or to enjoy throughout the week.
Why Fresh Lemonade Is the Best Choice
- Superior flavor: Fresh lemons offer a brighter, more vibrant taste compared to bottled lemon juice or concentrate.
- Packed with Vitamin C: Fresh lemons are a natural source of Vitamin C, essential for immune health.
- Control the sugar content: You control the amount of sugar used, making it perfect for those on a calorie diet or with medically restrictive diets.
1 Gallon Lemonade Ingredients
You only need three simple ingredients to make the best lemonade recipe:
- LEMONS: 8-12 fresh lemons, preferably organic, but Meyer lemons work great, too.
- SUGAR: 2 cups granulated sugar.
- WATER: to make a gallon of lemonade, you will need 16 cups of water.
- LEMON SLICES: Use for garnish.
Kitchen essentials you may need: Large pitcher (gallon capacity), large measuring cup, medium saucepan.
How to Make Lemonade Step by Step
Don’t have a fancy juicer? No problem! You can still extract plenty of delicious juice from your lemons for this simple homemade lemonade recipe:
- PREP THE LEMONS: Wash, thinly slice, and remove the seeds. Add the slices to a gallon pitcher.
- MAKE THE SUGAR SYRUP: Combine 2 cups sugar and 8 cups of water in a saucepan. Heat until sugar dissolves, then let cool for 30 minutes at room temperature.
- EXTRACT THE JUICES: Pour the cooled sugar syrup over the lemons in the pitcher. Use the potato masher to firmly press down on the lemons, breaking down the flesh and releasing the juice. Discard the lemon slices (optional). Top off the pitcher with additional water to reach 1 gallon (about 8 cups).
- CHILL AND SERVE: Add ice cubes, taste for sweetness, and adjust with additional sugar if needed. Pour over ice in glasses and garnish with lemon slices (optional).
Recipe Variations
- Mint Lemonade: Add 10-12 fresh mint leaves to the pitcher along with the lemon slices.
- Berry Lemonade: Add 1 cup of your favorite berries (such as strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries) to the pitcher.
Storing Homemade Lemonade
- Fridge is best: Keep your lemonade in the fridge, below 40°F (4°C), for 2-3 days.
- Glass is your friend: Use a glass pitcher with a tight lid to avoid unwanted flavors and smells.
- Ice on the side: Add ice cubes only when serving to prevent dilution.
- Freeze leftovers: Freeze leftover lemonade in an ice cube tray for future use!
FAQs
How many fresh lemons does it take to make a gallon of lemonade? Generally, a range of 8 to 12 fresh lemons is recommended to make a gallon of lemonade. The exact number of lemons needed can vary depending on lemon size and juiciness.
One Gallon Fresh Squeezed Lemonade Recipe
Ready to quench your thirst and impress your family and friends? Gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and enjoy fresh-squeezed lemonade in a glass!
We’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment below and share your experience with this recipe. Did you adjust the sweetness or add any fun variations?
How to Make a Gallon of Fresh-Squeezed Homemade Lemonade
Beat the heat with this easy homemade lemonade recipe! Made with fresh lemons, it's perfect for large gatherings or enjoying all week long.
Ingredients
- 8-12 fresh lemons
- 2 cups sugar
- 16 cups of water
- lemon slices for garnish
Instructions
- PREP THE LEMONS: Wash, thinly slice, and remove the seeds. Add the slices to a gallon pitcher.
- MAKE THE SUGAR SYRUP: Combine 2 cups sugar and 8 cups of water in a saucepan. Heat until sugar dissolves, then let cool for 30 minutes at room temperature.
- EXTRACT THE JUICES: Pour the cooled sugar syrup over the lemons in the pitcher. Use the potato masher to firmly press down on the lemons, breaking down the flesh and releasing the juice. Discard the lemon slices (optional). Top off the pitcher with additional water to reach 1 gallon (about 8 cups).
- CHILL AND SERVE: Add ice cubes, taste for sweetness, and adjust with additional sugar if needed. Pour over ice in glasses and garnish with lemon slices (optional).
About the Author
Sarah is the author behind Rocky Hedge Farm. With a passion for simple, healthy recipes, gardening, and remodeling her manufactured home, she shares her experiences and knowledge to inspire others. Go here to read her story, “Living a Life of Contentment and Joy: Simple Living at Rocky Hedge Farm.” If you want to message Sarah, visit her contact page here.