Forktionary

Best Lemonade Recipe

Unlock the secret to the BEST lemonade! This recipe, inspired by a treasured family cookbook, uses a zester to capture only the fragrant oils from the lemon peel, avoiding any bitterness. We'll zest directly onto sugar to perfectly infuse the flavor. For truly exceptional results, select lemons with flawlessly smooth skins. Get ready to experience a burst of sunshine in every sip!

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 35 mins
Calories 311.1 kcal
Protein 0g
Rating 4.3 (9 Reviews)
Best Lemonade

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Best Lemonade

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • Lemons, Rind Of
  • Fresh Water
  • Fresh Lemon Juice
  • Ice Cube
  • Club Soda

How to Make Best Lemonade

  1. Using a zester, zest the lemons directly onto 1 cup of granulated sugar in a 1-quart jar with a tight-fitting lid.
  2. Add 1 ½ cups of very hot water to the jar.
  3. Secure the lid firmly and shake vigorously until the sugar is completely dissolved.
  4. Juice the lemons and add 1 cup of fresh lemon juice to the jar.
  5. Stir gently to combine.
  6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until thoroughly chilled.
  7. To serve: Fill a 12-ounce glass with ice.
  8. Pour ¼ cup of the chilled lemon syrup over the ice.
  9. Top with chilled club soda or water.
  10. Gently stir to mix.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Want to unlock deeper, more complex flavors? Try toasting your whole spices before grinding them, or blooming ground spices in a little warm oil to enhance their aroma. Deglazing your pan with a bit of stock, wine, or even water after browning ingredients can capture those tasty caramelized bits, adding richness to your dish.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

0 g

Sugar

308g

Fat

0g

Carbs

27g

Recipe Categories (Choose a category and find related recipes!)

60 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Course Preparation Occasion Low Protein Healthy Beverages Low Fat Summer Dietary Low Sodium Low Cholesterol Seasonal Low Saturated Fat Healthy 2 Low In Something Presentation Served Cold