Lemonade Recipe for One

There’s nothing like kicking back with a cold glass of lemonade, especially when the sun decides to turn up the heat or you’re just winding down from a long day. 

But when it’s just you, making a whole big batch doesn’t really make much sense, does it? You end up with a whole pitcher taking up space in your fridge, or worse, you feel bad for not finishing it off before it loses its zing. That’s exactly why a lemonade for one recipe is just what you need. It’s all about making the perfect lemonade recipe for one to quench your thirst on a hot summer day, no more, no less. 

Ingredients Needed

Ready to make a glass of fresh-squeezed lemonade that sings summer but whispers “just for me”? You need just a few simple ingredients to get started. If you are feeling a little adventurous with some optional twists, you can personalize this single serving lemonade recipe.

Optional:

• Sparkling Water: Swap the cold water for sparkling water to add a fizzy twist.
• A few Mint Leaves: For a hint of freshness and an extra layer of flavor.
• Fresh Lemon Slice, or Wedge (for garnish): This is optional but we eat with our eyes first so it just makes your glass look nice.

Equipment Needed

Alright, let’s talk about what you need to make this lemonade recipe for one. We’re keeping it super simple. There’s no need for a bunch of gadgets. You just need a few basics:

Equipment Needed For a Single Glass of Lemonade

• Manual Lemon Squeezer/Juicer (optional): We like this little hand held juicer that makes lemon-squeezing super easy. I’ve linked the one I use below. Don’t have one? No sweat! Sometimes, old school is the best school. Just roll the lemon on your counter to release the juices, cut the lemon in half, and squeeze it over your hand into a bowl to catch the seeds. It’s a bit messy, but hey, it gets the job done.
• A Knife and Cutting Board: You’ll need this to halve your lemon. 
• A Glass or a Mason Jar: Choose a nice tall glass or a wide mouth mason jar to serve your fresh squeezed lemonade.

Your Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Single Serving Lemonade

Step 1: Prepare Your Lemon

• First, roll your lemon on the countertop, applying a bit of pressure. This little trick helps loosen up the juices inside.
• Using your knife, cut the lemon in half.

Step 2: Juice the Juicy Lemons

• Place one half of the lemon on the juicer and squeeze to extract the juice with both hands. Repeat with the other half. Aim for about 2 tablespoons of lemon juice. If you’re using your hands use the same process but put your hands under the lemon to catch the seeds. 
• Substitute: If you don’t have a lemon you can just use lemon juice from the bottle!

Step 3: Sweeten to Taste

Pour the fresh lemon juice into the bottom of your glass. Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of the simple syrup, depending on how sweet you like your lemonade. And mix these together.

Step 4: Add Cold Water or Sparkling Water and Stir

Fill the glass with 1 cup of cold water, or sparkling water if you prefer a fizzy version. Stir well until everything is completely combined.

Step 5: Ice and Optional Mint and Enjoy!

• Add ice cubes to your glass to keep your lemonade cold and refreshing. If you’re using mint, now’s the time to add a few leaves for an extra layer of flavor. 
• Take a moment to appreciate your homemade lemonade. Adjust any flavors as needed, adding more sugar or lemon juice to suit your taste. Then, sit back, relax, and enjoy every sip of your handcrafted beverage. 

Find the measurements and full recipe below in the recipe card!

Serving Suggestions for Your Homemade Lemonade

Now that you are relaxing with the perfect glass of lemonade for one, why not take your drink to the next level with some creative serving ideas? 

Frozen Berry or Fruit Ice Cubes

• Use ice cube trays to freeze berries or other fresh fruit and water, creating colorful, flavor-enhancing cubes. As they melt, they gently flavor your lemonade with a berry essence, perfect for a refreshing change. If you blend leftover fruit like strawberries or watermelon when they are on their way out into the cubes you can make an easy strawberry lemonade or watermelon lemonade as the ice cubes melt.The best part? There’s no waste and these can be used in other drinks.

Herbal Infusions

• Introduce a few basil or rosemary leaves into your lemonade and let them sit for a while before taking them out. This technique lends a sophisticated and unexpected flavor, offering a fresh take on your homemade beverage.

Upgrade Your Perfect Lemonade into a Mocktail

• For an occasion that feels a bit more special, mix in a splash of ginger beer or a couple of dashes of bitters for added depth. A curl of lime or orange peel makes for a beautiful garnish, turning your lemonade into fun drink.

Complement with a Snack

• This homemade lemonade recipe and snacks are a match! Pair your glass with a little salad, some cheese and crackers, or homemade popcorn for the perfect balance of flavors and textures for an afternoon treat.

Let’s Make This Easy Lemonade Recipe!

Who says you need to make an entire pitcher of lemonade to enjoy a glass of freshly squeezed lemonade? Certainly not us! When you are making meals just for you that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the simple pleasures of life, like a perfectly tart and sweet lemonade on a hot day. This lemonade recipe is the perfect treat for those moments when you want a little refreshing drink without the fuss. So, let’s squeeze the day and make a glass of lemonade that promises to hit the spot, made specially for you.