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Carnival Lemonade

Bold, colorful, sweet-tart lemonade that delivers a nostalgic carnival experience in every sip.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 8 glasses
Course: Drinks and Beverages
Cuisine: American
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 1 cup fresh lemon juice about 6 to 8 lemons
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 6 cups cold water
  • 2 to 4 drops food coloring
  • Lemon slices for garnish
  • Ice as needed
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract optional

Equipment

  • Large pitcher (2 quart)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Citrus juicer
  • Stirring spoon
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Drinking glasses
  • Food coloring dropper (optional)
  • Blender (optional)

Method
 

  1. Cut the lemons in half and juice them using a citrus juicer to yield about 1 cup of fresh lemon juice.
  2. Pour 6 cups of cold water into a large pitcher and stir in 1 cup of granulated sugar for about 2 minutes until fully dissolved.
  3. Add the fresh lemon juice to the pitcher and stir well to combine.
  4. Add 2 to 4 drops of food coloring and stir thoroughly until the color is evenly distributed.
  5. If using, add 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract and stir to incorporate.
  6. Taste the lemonade and adjust sweetness or tartness by adding more sugar or lemon juice as desired.
  7. Chill glasses in the freezer for 5 minutes or fill them with ice.
  8. Fill each glass with ice, pour the carnival lemonade, garnish with a lemon slice, and serve immediately.

Notes

Store leftover lemonade in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours and stir before serving.