Whether it’s a hot afternoon, a school lunch, or a last-minute drink for friends, this easy lemonade recipe is perfect when you want something fresh and delicious without spending lots of time in the kitchen. You only need three main ingredients and about five minutes!
⭐ Ingredients (Makes 4 glasses)
4 lemons
4 cups cold water
⅓–½ cup sugar (or honey)
Ice
Optional add-ins:
Lemon slices
Mint leaves
Frozen berries
A splash of sparkling water for fizz
🔥 Quick Instructions
1. Juice the Lemons
Roll each lemon on the counter to release more juice.
Cut and squeeze them until you have 1 cup of lemon juice.
2. Mix the Base
In a pitcher, add:
1 cup lemon juice
⅓–½ cup sugar
Stir until the sugar dissolves.
(If you’re in a hurry, warm ½ cup of water in the microwave and dissolve the sugar in it—instant simple syrup!)
3. Add Water & Ice
Pour in 4 cups cold water.
Stir well.
Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness.
4. Serve
Fill glasses with ice and pour your fresh lemonade.
Add lemon slices or mint if you want it fancy.
🌟 Flavor Variations
Raspberry Lemonade
Mash a handful of raspberries and mix them in.
Mint Lemonade
Add fresh mint leaves and gently crush them in the pitcher.
Honey Lemonade
Replace sugar with honey for a warm, smooth sweetness.
Sparkling Lemonade
Use half sparkling water for a bubbly version.
Strawberry Lemonade
Blend 4–5 strawberries and mix the puree into your lemonade.
💡 Tips for Making the Best Lemonade Fast
✔ Roll lemons before juicing for more liquid
✔ Use warm water to dissolve sugar instantly
✔ Add extra lemon slices for a stronger flavor
✔ Keep a jar of simple syrup in the fridge to make lemonade in seconds
✔ Replace some water with ice to chill immediately
❄ Storage
Fridge: Keeps for 2–3 days
Stir before serving (lemon pulp settles naturally)