Tips for how to make lemonade
- Homemade lemonade is a great way to use up excess lemons. Double up or halve the recipe, depending on the ingredients you have available
- If the lemonade is too sweet for your liking, add a splash more lemon juice. If it's too tart, stir through a little more sugar until fully dissolved
- If you prefer your lemonade fizzy, you can top it up with sparkling water
- For a fragrant twist, add a splash of elderflower cordial
Can I make lemonade using bottled lemon juice?
Lemonade is best made with fresh lemons, as they have a fresher, zestier, more fragrant flavour compared to bottled lemon juice, which often contains preservatives and can be overly acidic.
Can this lemonade be made sparkling?
Yes – simply top up with chilled sparkling water instead of still water.
How to store fresh lemonade
Homemade lemonade will keep in a sterilised bottle in the fridge for up to five days, or frozen for up to three months. Defrost overnight in the fridge and shake well before using.
How long does homemade lemonade last?
Store homemade lemonade in a sterilised glass bottle in the fridge for up to five days.
What can I add to homemade lemonade?
Although delicious on its own, the plain lemonade can be given a flavour twist, if you like:
- Herbs and botanicals – fresh mint, basil, rosewater, lavender and rosemary will add aromatic floral flavours
- Fruit purées – berry purées will add a fruity twist and vibrant colour, like in our strawberry lemonade or raspberry-flavoured pink lemonade
- Spices – ginger, licorice, cloves and even chilli will provide an extra kick
- Honey, maple syrup and agave – these can all be substituted for the sugar in this recipe for a slightly different sweetness profile