Description
A refreshing, tangy-sweet beverage that captures the nostalgic flavors of a state fair. This lemonade combines freshly squeezed lemon juice with a simple homemade sugar syrup and water, creating a perfect balance of tart and sweet. Ideal for hot summer days or any time you crave a cool, invigorating drink.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (from about 6-8 lemons)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water (for the sugar syrup)
- 4 cups cold water (to dilute)
- Ice cubes
- Lemon slices and fresh mint (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt.
- Add Milk: Gradually pour in the whole milk while stirring continuously to blend the dry ingredients smoothly.
- Cook the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil. Once boiling, allow it to simmer for 1–2 minutes.
- Temper the Egg Yolks: Slowly add a small amount of the hot chocolate mixture into the lightly beaten egg yolks to temper them, then pour the tempered yolks back into the saucepan. Continue stirring over low heat for about 1 minute, ensuring the mixture is smooth and thickened further.
- Finish the Filling: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the unsalted butter and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Assemble the Pie: Pour the hot chocolate filling into the graham cracker crust. Cover the surface with plastic wrap (pressing it directly onto the filling to prevent a skin from forming).
- Chill: Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, or until completely set.
- Serve: Top with a generous dollop of whipped cream before serving.
Notes
- For a more intense lemon flavor, adjust the ratio of water to syrup based on your taste.
- If you prefer a sparkling version, substitute half of the cold water with club soda or sparkling water just before serving.
- This recipe can be easily doubled or tripled for larger gatherings.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 glass (approx. 250 ml)
- Calories: ~120 kcal
- Sugar: ~20 g
- Sodium: ~10 mg
- Fat: 0 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: ~30 g
- Fiber: ~0.5 g
- Protein: ~1 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg