Amish Style Lemonade Recipe

Transport yourself to Pennsylvania Dutch Country with this authentic Amish Lemonade recipe, originally featured in the Philadelphia Inquirer's August 1998 edition of the Inquirer Magazine! This recipe uses a traditional mashing method to unlock the purest lemon flavor. Unwaxed lemons are ideal for a more intense citrus experience. Get ready for a cool, refreshing drink that's perfect for a hot summer day!

Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 15 mins
Calories 197.2 kcal
Protein 4g
Rating 5.0 (3 Reviews)
Amish Style Lemonade

Recipe Actions

Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Amish Style Lemonade

  • 12 unwaxed lemons (or 18 regular lemons)
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • Cold Water

How to Make Amish Style Lemonade

  1. Cut 12 unwaxed lemons (or 18 regular lemons) in half lengthwise. Thinly slice each half, as if for garnish.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the lemon slices, 2 cups of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of sea salt. Use a potato masher or heavy wooden spoon to mash the lemons, releasing their juices and dissolving the sugar. Continue mashing until the mixture becomes syrupy (about 5 minutes).
  3. Place a fine-mesh sieve over a large bowl or pitcher. Pour half of the lemon mixture into the sieve. Gently press the solids with a spoon or spatula to extract as much juice as possible.
  4. Discard the remaining solids (pulp and lemon peels).
  5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 with the remaining lemon mixture.
  6. Add 8 cups of cold water to the extracted lemon juice. Stir well to combine.
  7. Add ice cubes and serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for later. Stir gently before serving over ice. Enjoy your homemade Amish Lemonade!

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Small additions can make a big impact! Try a sprinkle of fresh herbs, a dash of your favorite spice blend, or a squeeze of citrus just before serving to really enhance the flavors of your dish.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

0 g

Sugar

166g

Fat

0g

Carbs

20g