Next, add in the 4 cups of cold water. You can adjust this according to your taste. I’ve found that adding more water can make it less intense, perfect for those who might prefer a milder lemonade. Give everything a good stir, ensuring no sugar remains at the bottom of the pitcher. Now it’s time to chill! I usually let mine sit in the refrigerator for at least an hour, allowing those flavors to meld beautifully.
When you’re ready to serve, fill glasses with ice cubes and pour that gorgeous lemonade over the top. If you’re feeling fancy, garnish with fresh lemon slices! The lemony fragrance mixed with the coldness of the ice creates an inviting drink that’s begging to be enjoyed.
Don’t forget, if you have any leftovers, you can store them in the fridge for a few days. Just be sure to give it a stir again before serving.
Pro Tips for Best Results
I’ve tried this lemonade a few different ways, and here’s what I’ve learned! First, make sure you use fresh lemons—there’s really no comparison to the taste. Trust me when I say that pre-packaged lemon juice simply cannot replicate the vibrant flavor of the fresh stuff.
Another tip I’ve discovered is to let the lemonade rest in the fridge for a few hours instead of just a quick chill. This will allow the flavors to meld and become that perfect balance of sweet and tart.
Finally, depending on your taste preference, feel free to tweak the sugar levels. If you find it too sweet at first, add more lemon juice. I’ve gone back and forth between sweet and tart balances, and it’s exciting to discover what your own personal favorite is!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One of the most common mistakes I found while making lemonade is not fully dissolving the sugar before adding the water. I once ended up with a few sugary clumps at the bottom of my pitcher and it just wasn’t pleasant! So remember, stir well until the sugar is fully dissolved before moving on to the next steps. (See the next page below to continue…)