Your cart is currently empty!
How to Make Refreshing Southern Lemonade at Home
Nothing says summer like a refreshing glass of freshly squeezed lemonade. This easy-to-make, perfectly sweetened Southern lemonade is the ultimate thirst-quencher for hot sunny days, backyard BBQs, and summer gatherings.
Made with fresh lemons and simple syrup, it’s a timeless and easy recipe that’s both crisp and tangy—ideal for cooling off and enjoying those long summer vibes. Plus, it’s fully customizable with endless flavor options to keep your summer drinks exciting and delicious!
What you’ll need for this Southern Lemonade
- Fresh lemons (for fresh lemon juice)
- Simple syrup (homemade for best flavor *see notes*)
- Cold water
That’s it! This easy lemonade recipe uses simple ingredients and comes together quickly, making it a go-to for summer refreshment. Plus, it’s easy to adjust the sweetness to your liking.
How to make Classic Southern Lemonade?
Simple syrup is key to making smooth, well-blended lemonade that’s free of grainy sugar. Here’s how to make it:
- Combine equal parts granulated sugar and water in a saucepan.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the sugar fully dissolves.
- Remove from heat and let cool. Store in a jar in the fridge for easy use.
How to Make Classic Southern Lemonade
- Juice 6 to 8 fresh lemons to get about 1 cup of fresh lemon juice.
- In a pitcher, combine the lemon juice with simple syrup to taste (start with about ¾ cup).
- Add 4 cups of cold water and stir well.
- Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness by adding more syrup or lemon juice as needed.
- Serve over ice and garnish with lemon slices or fresh mint, if desired.
Flavor Ideas to Try
Want to switch things up? Try adding fresh fruit or herbs to create your own signature summer lemonade:
- Peach Lemonade
- Blueberry Lemonade
- Strawberry Lemonade
- Mint Lemonade
More Recipes To Try
- Frozen Summer Mojito
- Guava Mocktail Refresher
- Hot Honey Mango Mocktail
- Refreshing Blackberry Pine Mocktail
Tried This Recipe?
If you make this Classic Southern Lemonade, I’d love to see it! Tag me on Instagram @cookwithci or leave a comment below. Your feedback means so much—and I love seeing your creations in the wild!
Classic Southern Lemonade
Equipment
- Pitcher
Ingredients
- 6-8 lemons juiced
- 4 cups water
Simple syrup
- 2 cup water
- 2 cup granulated sugar
For garnish
- lemon slices
- mint leaves
Instructions
- For the Simple Syrup:In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine equal parts water and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce to a simmer for 2–3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly, then pour into a mason jar or airtight container. Store in the fridge until ready to use.
- For the Lemonade: Juice 6–8 fresh lemons into a large pitcher (you’ll need about 1 cup of lemon juice). Add 1 cup of simple syrup, then pour in 4 cups (or about 2 bottles) of cold water. Stir well, taste, and adjust sweetness as needed. I ended up using 1 1/2 cups of simple syrup. Serve over ice and enjoy!
Notes
Pro Tip: Want even more lemony flavor and a brighter color? Add the zest of one fresh lemon to your simple syrup as it’s cooking. Once the sugar has dissolved, remove from heat and let the zest steep for a few minutes. Strain before mixing the syrup into your lemon juice for a bold, zesty lemonade upgrade.
Did you make it?
Tag @cookwithci on Instagram and hashtag #CookwithCi
I’m Ci,
Welcome to CookWithCi, where I share my love for cooking. Here you’ll find a variety of delicious and fun recipes. From comfort classics to simple delights. I hope you are inspired to get creative in the kitchen. xoxo!
Ease Into Fall
Let’s Be Friends
Your message has been sent
