Learn how to make the perfect sweet-tart lemonade recipe for the hottest days.

after you grab homemade lemonade, you’ll never buy bottled again.

How To Make Homemade Lemonade

Making homemade lemonade really couldn’t be easier.

Southern Living Classic Lemonade in a pitcher to serve with ice and lemon slices

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Simple syrup will last up to two weeks.

(Simple syrup without the lemon zest lasts longer.)

Remove from heat and let cool for 10 minutes.

Southern Living Classic Lemonade ingredients

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Serve lemonade over ice and garnish with lemon slices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Classic lemonade is made with sugar, water, and lemon juice.

No, lemonade needs sweetness.

Southern Living Classic Lemonade combining the ingredients to make the sugar syrup

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Leftover fresh lemonade can be stored in the fridge 5 to 7 days.

Just be sure to cover the pitcher with food wrap or a lid.

Southern Living Classic Lemonade letting the syrup cool

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Southern Living Classic Lemonade combining the ingredients in a pitcher to serve

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox