Learn how to make lemonade with homemade lemonade concentrate for a delicious, refreshing summer drink. Quick, easy, and perfect on a hot day!

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I know you might be reading this and thinking, “Do I really need a recipe to make lemonade?”

And sure, that’s a fair question.

After all, it’s just fresh lemon juice, water, and regular sugar.

How hard can it be!

But here’s the thing…when you’ve already gone through the trouble of making your own homemade lemonade concentrate, there’s a simple method that makes sure every glass turns out just right.

Because the perfect glass of lemonade needs to be sweet, refreshingly tart, and never watered down.

I promise this post isn’t about overcomplicating things.

It’s about showing you the easiest way to turn that homemade concentrate into the best lemonade, whether you’re pouring a quick cup for yourself or serving up a big pitcher for friends and family.

And once you get the ratio down, you’ll never have to guess again.

No more taste testing ten times or accidentally making something that resembles lemon flavored water.

Just consistent, delicious lemonade every, single, time.

when life gives you lemons, make lemonade.

julius rosenwald

What you’ll love about this recipe:

QUICK & EASY – Once your concentrate is made, you can have a glass of fresh lemonade ready in under a minute.
CUSTOMIZABLE – You’re in control of the flavor. Add more water or more concentrate depending on your preference.
DOUBLE OR TRIPLE – You can easily scale this recipe with no complicated math required.
MAKE AHEAD – Store homemade concentrate in the fridge or freezer so you can prep once and enjoy a refreshing drink anytime.
THE REAL DEAL – Every sip is filled with fresh, lemony goodness just like you remember from childhood summers.

Glass pitcher of homemade lemonade on a wooden table with fresh lemon slices and ice cubes.

Glass jars of lemonade concentrate with a bowl full of lemons, kitchen towel, and gift tags, on a wooden surface.

Lemonade Concentrate Recipe

Make your own homemade lemonade concentrate using just 4 simple ingredients.

find out how

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What You’ll Need to Make Homemade Lemonade

To make a single glass or a whole pitcher, here are the 3 simple ingredients you will need…

Homemade Lemonade Concentrate: You can find the recipe here.
Cold Water or Sparkling Water: Depending on your mood.
Ice Cubes: Because lemonade just isn’t the same without it.
Optional Garnishes: Lemon slices, fresh mint sprigs, or berries.

supplies you’ll need

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I’m Heidi, the heart and hands behind Eleanor Rose Home.

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I’ll show you that your home can become a place of warmth, comfort, and style with practical tips, creative ideas, and my own journey to help you create a space that feels like you…welcoming, personal, and full of charm.

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The Perfect Lemonade Ratio

Here’s the easy lemonade recipe that works like a charm every single time…

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1 Part Concentrate : 3 Parts Water

If You’re Making a Single Glass:

1/4 cup Lemonade Concentrate
3/4 cup Cold Water

Mason jars of homemade lemonade with a paper straw and lemon slice on a wooden table.

And for a Pitcher:

1 cup Lemonade Concentrate
3 cups Cold Water

Tips & Tricks

Start with cold water, not room temperature to keep your lemonade chilled without needing a ton of ice that could water it down.
Everyone likes their lemonade a little different. Start with the basic 1:3 ratio, then tweak it to your liking.
Feel free to use tap water, however using filtered water can make a big difference in the clarity and flavor of your lemonade.
Pop your glass mason jars (or pitcher) in the freezer for 10 minutes before mixing your lemonade for an extra refreshing treat on a hot summer day.

How to Customize the Classic Lemonade Recipe

This is where things get fun!

Once you’ve got your base lemonade mixed, you can get creative…

Freeze It: Pour into molds for homemade lemonade popsicles.
Add Berries: A handful of muddled raspberries or strawberries to make strawberry lemonade.
Sparkling Lemonade: Swap still water for sparkling for a bubbly drink.
Add Herbs: Try a few sprigs of mint, basil, or even rosem a ry.
Make it Tropical: Mix in a splash of pineapple or coconut water.

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from our kitchen to yours

Delicious Lemon Recipes

These recipes highlight everything we enjoy about fresh lemons, the perfect balance of tart and sweet with a fresh, vibrant taste in every bite.

See lemon Recipes

Turn It Into a Lemonade Bar

If you’re hosting a summer get-together or special occasion, a pitcher (or two!) of this easy homemade lemonade recipe is a must.

You can offer both still and sparkling versions, and set out bowls of lemon slices, fresh herbs, and berries so guests can garnish their drinks just the way they like.

Hey friend! What can I help you find?

Search our entire site!

Want to take it up a notch?

I put together a whole post on how to create a charming, self-serve DIY lemonade bar.

It’s simple, beautiful, and makes even the most casual gathering feel special!

Common Questions

What’s the best ratio of concentrate to water?
A good starting point is 1 part concentrate to 3 parts water. You can adjust to your taste, more concentrate for a sweet flavor, or more water for a lighter version.

Can I make a big batch of fresh homemade lemonade ahead of time?
Yes! This recipe is easy to double or triple, and you can store the mixed lemonade in the fridge for a few days. Just give it a good stir before serving, especially if you added fresh fruits or herbs.

Can I freeze homemade lemonade?
You sure can. Freeze the mixed lemonade in ice cube trays or a freezer-safe airtight container. It’s great for adding to water later or making frozen treats like popsicles or slushies.

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Lemonade With Homemade Lemonade Concentrate

A quick and easy way to make perfectly sweet and refreshing lemonade using homemade lemonade concentrate. Just pour, stir, and sip!

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4 cups

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Prep Time 3

Total Time 3

Ingredients

1 cup Homemade Lemonade Concentrate
3 cups Cold Water filtered, spring, or tap
Ice Cubes for serving
Lemon Slices, Fresh Mint, or Berries for garnish

Instructions

Combine 1 cup of homemade lemonade concentrate with 3 cups of cold water in a pitcher.
Stir well to combine.
Taste and adjust. Add more water for a lighter flavor, or more concentrate if you prefer sweeter.
Serve over ice with optional garnishes like lemon slices, fresh mint sprigs, or berries.
Enjoy immediately, or refrigerate until ready to serve!

Notes

The 1:3 ratio is a great starting point, but feel free to adjust based on your personal preference.
Use filtered water for the best flavor.
Try sparkling water for a fizzy twist.
This recipe can easily be doubled or tripled for a crowd.
For longer storage, mix only when ready to serve and keep the concentrate refrigerated or frozen.