Homemade Lemonade (Citronade) Recipe : Refreshing & Easy

French

A refreshing lemonade made with just 3 key ingredients, quick to prepare and perfect for hot days.

Why Homemade Lemonade Is the Ultimate Summer Refreshment

Let’s dive into the joy of a refreshing homemade lemonade, or as we call it : Citronnade in french.

Many people mistakenly drop the “n” and write “citronnade” as “citronade”, but honestly, who cares how it’s spelled when the drink is this good?

What really matters is how incredibly cooling and revitalizing this classic lemon drink is.

As sunny days start to show up and the warmth gently takes over, there’s nothing more thirst-quenching than a chilled glass of homemade lemonade, delicately infused with fresh mint.

For me, it’s an absolute must, a drink that not only cools you down but also gives you an energizing boost.

And if you’re lucky enough to have a lemon tree in your garden, making this lemon-mint lemonade becomes even more satisfying. There’s something magical about using your own citrus!

What You’ll Need for the Perfect Homemade Lemonade (Serves 6, Ready in 20 Minutes)

• 1.5 liters of cold water : Use filtered or spring water for the freshest taste. You can chill it ahead of time for an extra-refreshing result.
• 6 unwaxed lemons : Choose firm, heavy lemons with smooth, bright skin, they’re usually juicier. Unwaxed lemons are best if you plan to slice them into the drink, as there’s no residue on the peel.
• 5 tablespoons of honey : A natural sweetener that adds a light floral note. Adjust the quantity based on your preference. You can also substitute with agave syrup or sugar if desired.
• A handful of fresh mint leaves : Mint brings a burst of coolness that perfectly complements the tangy lemon. Gently crush the leaves before adding to release their essential oils.
• Plenty of ice cubes : Essential for that crisp, icy finish, add just before serving to keep your lemonade perfectly chilled without diluting the flavor too early.

How to Make Fresh Homemade Lemonade : Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make a honey syrup : In a small saucepan, bring 200 ml of water to a gentle simmer. Stir in 5 tablespoons of honey and let it dissolve completely. This helps the honey blend evenly into the lemonade without clumping.
2. Juice 4 lemons : Roll the lemons on the countertop to release the juice, then cut and squeeze using a citrus press or juicer. Strain if you prefer a pulp-free drink.
3. Mix syrup and lemon juice : In a large pitcher, combine the warm honey-water with the freshly squeezed lemon juice. Stir well to marry the flavors.
4. Add flavor and freshness : Pour in the remaining 1.3 liters of cold water, then add 2 lemons sliced into thin rounds, a handful of fresh mint leaves, and a generous amount of ice cubes. Gently stir to infuse.
5. Chill before serving : Place the pitcher in the refrigerator for 30 to 40 minutes. This allows the flavors to develop and the drink to become beautifully cold.
6. Serve and enjoy! Pour into glasses over more ice if desired. Garnish with a sprig of mint or a lemon wedge for that final fresh touch.

Choosing and Juicing Your Lemons

– Pick lemons that feel firm but springy : those are the juiciest.

– Among same-size lemons, heavier ones yield more juice.

– Allow lemons to reach room temperature before juicing.

Juicing methods:

• Use a handheld citrus press, cut-side down.
• Or insert a fork into the lemon flesh and twist to extract juice.

How to Freeze Homemade Lemonade Concentrate for Later

Want to enjoy fresh lemonade anytime without starting from scratch? Freezing your own concentrate is a game-changer! Here’s how to do it:

– Use when needed : When you’re ready for a glass of lemonade, simply thaw the concentrate in the fridge, then dilute with cold water to your taste. Add mint and ice for that freshly-made finish!

– Prepare the base syrup : Let your warm honey-water mixture cool completely, then stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice.

– Portion and store : Pour the mixture into freezer-safe bags or airtight containers. Label with the date and freeze for up to 5 months.

How to prepare your lemonade with a Thermomix

How to Prepare and Store Homemade Lemonade in Advance

Making homemade lemonade ahead of time is not only convenient, it actually enhances the flavor as the ingredients infuse together. Here’s how to do it right:

Prepare in advance:

Lemonade is the perfect drink to make ahead! Prepare it in the morning for the evening, or even the night before. Once you’ve mixed the lemon juice, honey, cold water, lemon slices, and mint, let it rest in the fridge for at least 30 to 40 minutes so the flavors can blend beautifully. It tastes even better well chilled.

Tip: Add the ice cubes just before serving to keep your lemonade flavorful and refreshing, without watering it down.

Storage Tips

– In the freezer (as a concentrate):

• Mix the lemon juice with honey and a little water, let it cool, and pour into freezer bags or ice cube trays. It keeps for up to 5 months.
• When ready to serve, simply dilute with cold water, add ice cubes, lemon slices, and a few sprigs of fresh mint, instant homemade lemonade, bursting with flavor!

– In the refrigerator:

Store your lemonade in a tightly sealed jug or bottle for up to 3 days. Keep it cold to preserve its fresh, zesty taste.

Other drinks to try

• Pear white Sangria Mocktail
• Easy Mango Lassi
• Alcohol-Free Hot Toddy : Grog (Warm Drink)