State Fair Lemonade
State Fair Lemonade is a classic, refreshing drink that brings back memories of summer fun and joyful fairs. The bright flavor of fresh lemons combined with the sweetness of sugar makes this drink a perfect treat on hot days. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, a family picnic, or just looking to cool off, this lemonade is sure to please everyone.
Why Make This Recipe
Making State Fair Lemonade at home is simple and rewarding. You can use fresh ingredients to create a delicious drink that tastes much better than store-bought options. It’s also easy to customize to fit your taste. With just a few ingredients, you can enjoy a refreshing beverage that will quench your thirst and brighten your day.
How to Make State Fair Lemonade
Ingredients:
- 8 fresh lemons
- 1 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 6 cups water (4 cups hot water, 2 cups cold water)
Directions:
- Place the lemons on the counter and roll them firmly to loosen the juice.
- Zest 6 of the lemons and combine the zest with the granulated sugar in a small bowl. Cover and let it sit at room temperature for 2 hours.
- Transfer the mixture to a heat-safe bowl, pour 4 cups of hot water over it, and stir until the sugar is dissolved. Refrigerate the mixture for 2 hours.
- Juice the zested lemons, yielding a bit over 1 cup of lemon juice.
- Stir the lemon juice into the cooled lemon sugar water from the refrigerator.
- Strain the lemonade through a mesh strainer into another bowl, discarding the pulp and zest.
- Add 2 cups of cold water and stir.
- Slice the remaining 2 lemons and add them along with ice to a pitcher, then pour the lemonade over it. Serve immediately.
How to Serve State Fair Lemonade
Serve State Fair Lemonade in tall glasses filled with ice. Garnish each glass with a slice of lemon for a cheerful look. This drink is best enjoyed cold on a sunny day, so make sure to keep it chilled if you are serving a crowd!
How to Store State Fair Lemonade
If you have leftover lemonade, store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days. Just give it a good stir before serving to mix up any settled sugar.
Tips to Make State Fair Lemonade
- Use fresh lemons for the best flavor.
- If you prefer your lemonade sweeter or less sweet, feel free to adjust the amount of sugar to your liking.
- For a fun twist, try adding fresh mint leaves or berries for extra flavor.
Variation
You can make a different version of this lemonade by adding sparkling water instead of cold water for a fizzy drink. Also, consider adding fruit like strawberries or raspberries for a fruity lemonade twist!
FAQs
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemons?
Yes, but fresh lemons provide a brighter, more vibrant flavor than bottled lemon juice. If you must use bottled juice, consider adjusting the sugar to taste.
Is this lemonade recipe easy to make?
Absolutely! This recipe is straightforward and requires only a few simple steps. It’s perfect for beginners.
Can I make this lemonade ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the lemonade a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and give it a stir before serving.
