This classic French Citronnade is our answer to a deliciously cloudy, homemade lemonade recipe - and in a heatwave, it's a glass of cool sunshine. All summer in Paris, you'll spot it on café menus from the Tuileries Gardens to the tiniest terrace in Montmartre. It's the perfect French lemon drink to cool off, with just the right balance of tang, sweetness, and sparkle if you like it fizzy.
How to Make Lemonade with Lemons - a French Citronnade
So, how do you make lemonade with lemons? The traditional French Citronnade couldn't be simpler. For homemade lemonade with lemons and sugar, grab the juiciest, most fragrant fruit you can find. I go for sweet, perfumed Meyer lemons or Menton lemons. 'Citrons de Menton' have been famous in the south of France since the 14th century.)
How Much Lemon Should I Put in Lemonade?
According to the classic French reference Larousse Gastronomique, "Squeeze enough to get about 3 tablespoons of juice per glass, stir in sugar to taste, then top with still or sparkling water." C'est tout! That's it: fast, simple, and fabulously French.
Peronsally, I like mine extra lemony and cloudy. For an easy homemade lemonade with lemons, I use 2 lemons for 75cl (about 1 and a third pints).
For a deeper flavour, let the lemon drink infuse in the fridge with a little zest, then strain before serving. I often slip in 2 slices or grated fresh ginger - perfect for reviving the senses when Paris feels hotter than the Sahara (like this summer!)
Citronnade vs Citron Pressé
If you see Citronnade on a menu, you'll get a ready-mixed lemonade with sugar and water. Order a Citron Pressé, however, and you'll be handed pure lemon juice in a glass, with sugar and water on the side, to mix yourself.
Either way, you'll feel like a local, lingering under a parasol with lips puckered. I'll let you decide if you prefer a proper pucker or a delicate pout!
Benefits of Drinking Lemon Water
Citronnade is simply lemon water dressed for a holiday - a little sugar, maybe some bubbles and ice.
Start your mornings or finish off a meal with plain lemon water (without the sugar) for a healthier option. Not only is it a gentle way to wake up your system, but the benefits of drinking lemon water include:
- Excellent natural hydration
- A boost of vitamin C
- Helping digestion by stimulating bile and calming bloating.
So whether you enjoy lemon water plain or jazzed up into a Citronnade, your body will thank you.
British vs American Lemonade - What's the Difference?
This is not British lemonade, which is fizzy like Sprite or another lemon-lime soda. It's more like American lemonade: a chilled, alcohol-free lemon drink that's a pure, sweet-tart refreshment.
In France, it's most often served with still water (l'eau plate), though sparkling (l'eau pétillante) is just as popular for extra fizz.
More Lemon Drinks to Try
If you're feeling fancy, swap your Citronnade for this classic French 75 cocktail - lemon juice, gin, Champagne and a cheeky extra twist added at Paris's Harry's Bar, where it was first created.
For more zesty facts and citrusy recipes,
see my full Guide to lemons and limes.
Citronnade - French Homemade Lemonade Recipe
Equipment
- citrus squeezer optional
Ingredients
- 2 lemons organic, unwaxed
- 75 cl (1 ¼ pints) water still or sparkling
- 30 g (2 tbsp) sugar or less, to your taste
- 1 lemon peel
- 4 ice cubes optional
- sprig fresh mint leaves garnish
Instructions
- Measure out the water and add in the sugar (if you prefer your Citronnade tart, then add just one tablespoon). Place a lid on top and shake to dissolve.
- Cut the lemons in 2, squeeze out their juice without touching the bitter white pith and add to the water. Cut off a little zest and add to the water.
- Either serve immediately with ice cubes and mint or refrigerate up to a day in advance.
