Homemade State Fair Lemonade: A Sweet and Tangy Classic

Name: Homemade State Fair Lemonade: A Sweet and Tangy Classic
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4-5 lemons); 1 cup granulated sugar; 4 cups cold water; Ice cubes; Lemon slices for garnish

March 13, 2025

Recipes

If there’s one drink that screams summer, it’s a classic State Fair Lemonade. There’s just something about that perfect balance of sweet and tart, paired with ice-cold refreshment, that instantly transports me back to warm, sunny days. Whether you’re strolling through a fairground or just looking for a cool, homemade treat, this lemonade is a must-try.

I love how simple this recipe is—no fancy ingredients, just fresh lemons, sugar, and water. It’s the kind of drink that brings people together, whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just relaxing on the porch. Let’s dive into what makes this homemade lemonade so special and how you can make it perfectly every time.

Why This Lemonade Stands Out

There’s a reason why this lemonade is a fairground favorite—it’s crisp, refreshing, and incredibly easy to make. Here’s why I keep coming back to this recipe:

Freshly squeezed lemon juice makes all the difference – No bottled stuff here! Fresh lemons bring a bright, natural tartness that’s perfectly balanced with sugar.
The right sweetness – Too much sugar can overpower the lemon, but this recipe hits just the right note.
Ice-cold perfection – Serving it over plenty of ice makes it extra refreshing, especially on a scorching day.
Customizable – Want a little extra flavor? You can easily infuse it with herbs like mint or basil for a fun twist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

(Serves 4 | Prep Time: 10 minutes)

1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4-5 lemons)
1 cup granulated sugar
4 cups cold water
Ice cubes
Lemon slices (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Guide to Making State Fair Lemonade

1. Squeeze the Lemons

Start by cutting your lemons in half and squeezing them to extract the juice. You’ll need about 1 cup of fresh lemon juice, which is roughly 4-5 large lemons, depending on their juiciness. I always strain the juice to remove any pulp or seeds, giving me a smooth lemonade.

2. Dissolve the Sugar

In a large pitcher, combine the freshly squeezed lemon juice and sugar. Stir well until the sugar is fully dissolved. If you want a smoother texture, you can make a simple syrup by dissolving the sugar in a small amount of warm water first, then letting it cool before mixing it with the lemon juice.

3. Add Cold Water

Pour in 4 cups of cold water and stir everything together. This step is key to balancing the tartness of the lemons with the sweetness of the sugar.

4. Serve Over Ice

Fill your favorite glasses with plenty of ice cubes, then pour the lemonade over the top. The ice chills the drink instantly, making it even more refreshing.

5. Garnish for a Touch of Flair

For that classic State Fair look, add a fresh lemon slice to each glass. If you’re feeling fancy, you can even add a sprig of mint or a few berries for a fun twist.

6. Enjoy the Taste of Summer!

Take a sip and savor the fresh, tangy, and sweet flavors of homemade lemonade. Whether you’re cooling off after a long day or serving it at a party, this drink is guaranteed to be a hit.

Pro Tips for the Best Homemade Lemonade

Use ripe, juicy lemons – Meyer lemons can add a slightly sweeter, floral flavor if you want to experiment.
Make it ahead – If you’re hosting guests, prepare the lemonade in advance and chill it in the fridge for an even more refreshing taste.
Add a fun twist – Try mixing in a handful of fresh strawberries or a splash of sparkling water for a fizzy variation.
Adjust the sweetness – If you prefer a more tart lemonade, reduce the sugar slightly or add an extra squeeze of lemon.

What to Serve with This Classic Lemonade

This lemonade pairs perfectly with all kinds of summer treats. Here are a few of my favorites:

Grilled burgers and hot dogs – A backyard cookout essential.
Crispy fried chicken – The ultimate comfort food combination.
Fresh fruit salad – A light and refreshing snack to go with your drink.
Funnel cake or homemade churros – Because nothing says State Fair like lemonade and a sweet treat.

FAQs About Homemade Lemonade

Q: Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
A: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is always best for the freshest flavor, but in a pinch, you can use bottled juice. Just make sure it’s 100% pure lemon juice with no added sweeteners.

Q: How long does homemade lemonade last?
A: It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving.

Q: Can I make this lemonade sugar-free?
A: Absolutely! Swap out the granulated sugar for honey, agave syrup, or a sugar substitute like stevia to fit your dietary needs.

Q: How do I make pink lemonade?
A: Add a splash of cranberry juice, pomegranate juice, or a few muddled raspberries to give your lemonade a pretty pink hue.

The Perfect Summer Drink

Nothing beats a cold glass of homemade lemonade on a hot summer day. Whether you’re reminiscing about the State Fair or just need a quick and easy way to cool down, this recipe is a winner. Simple, refreshing, and endlessly customizable, it’s a drink I make again and again.

Give this recipe a try and let me know how it turns out! Have a favorite lemonade variation? I’d love to hear your twists on this classic summer drink.