Citronnade Maison: Homemade French Lemonade vs Classic American Lemonade

Both drinks start from the same base of cooled simple syrup and strained fresh lemon juice, yet they land differently in the glass. The citronnade uses less sugar and adds finely grated zest straight into the pitcher, giving it a lighter sweetness and a more aromatic lemon character, while optional bruised mint can bring an extra layer of freshness. The American lemonade, made with more sugar and no zest, leans sweeter and more direct: a clean, juice-forward sweet-tart balance best poured over plenty of ice.