Make Your Own Hubert’s Lemonade at Home (Easy Copycat Recipe!)

If you’ve ever taken a sip of Hubert’s Lemonade, you know exactly why people rave about it. That perfect mix of tart lemon and sweet cane sugar, served in a nostalgic glass bottle, just hits differently. Whether it was your go-to summer drink or a treat you grabbed at the gas station, Hubert’s had a way of making lemonade feel special.

But lately, fans are wondering: Where did it go? Is Hubert’s Lemonade discontinued?Why is it so difficult to locate on store shelves?

The good news? You don’t need to hunt down a bottle to get that iconic flavor. In fact, you can recreate a homemade Hubert’s Lemonade that tastes even better than the original, fresh, clean, and without any preservatives or mystery ingredients.

In this guide, I’ll show you:

• What made Hubert’s Lemonade so popular
• Why it’s harder to find now
• How to make an easy copycat Hubert’s Lemonade recipe at home
• Fun flavor twists and variations to try
• And even a few other drinks to sip on if you miss that Hubert’s magic

Let’s bring back that bold, tart-sweet flavor, right from your own kitchen. 🍋

What Made Hubert’s Lemonade So Special?

If you were one of the lucky folks who grew up with Hubert’s Lemonade, you know it wasn’t just any bottled drink. This wasn’t your run-of-the-mill lemon beverage, it had a unique, bold flavor that set it apart from the competition.

So, what made Hubert’s Lemonade so irresistible?

The Signature Tart-Sweet Balance

First, let’s talk about flavor. Hubert’s Lemonade had the perfect balance of tartness and sweetness. It wasn’t overly sugary like many mass-produced lemonades you find today. Instead, it was refreshingly tangy with just the right touch of natural sweetness. That combination of flavors made it feel more sophisticated and real, like you were enjoying something made with love and care.

Natural Ingredients

One of the key reasons Hubert’s stood out was the use of real, quality ingredients. You could actually taste the real lemon juice and pure cane sugar. Many bottled lemonades use artificial sweeteners, high-fructose corn syrup, or concentrates, but Hubert’s kept it simple. No artificial flavors or colors, just the kind of drink you could feel good about sipping.

Iconic Glass Bottle

Let’s not forget the iconic packaging! The glass bottle was part of the charm. It wasn’t just a drink; it was an experience. Whether you were at the beach, on a road trip, or just hanging out in your backyard, that glass bottle with the vintage label made it feel like a special occasion. It had the perfect weight, a satisfying pop when opened, and, of course, the lemonade inside was nothing short of delicious.

The Nostalgic Factor

Hubert’s wasn’t just a drink; it was part of so many people’s memories. Maybe it reminds you of a favorite vacation or a fun summer with friends. It wasn’t just about refreshing yourself, it was about bringing back that nostalgia and warmth every time you took a sip. And that’s why so many people still miss it.

In essence, Hubert’s Lemonade wasn’t just a beverage; it was a little piece of joy in a bottle. The right balance of flavors, premium ingredients, and timeless packaging made it a standout drink that’s still beloved to this day.

Hubert’s Lemonade Ingredients (Let’s Reverse Engineer It)

One of the best things about Hubert’s Lemonade was its simplicity. The ingredients were straightforward and wholesome, making it feel like you were drinking something that was both refreshing and clean. So, if we’re going to recreate it at home, we need to reverse engineer the Hubert’s Lemonade formula and use the same high-quality ingredients to get that perfect, nostalgic flavor.

What’s Inside a Bottle of Hubert’s Lemonade?

Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients found in the original Hubert’s Lemonade:

• Filtered Water
• Cane Sugar
• Lemon Juice Concentrate
• Natural Flavors
• Citric Acid (for tartness)
• Sodium Benzoate (a preservative)

While this may look simple, each ingredient plays a crucial role in giving the lemonade its signature taste. So, what can we do to make sure we capture that perfect balance at home?

Breaking Down the Ingredients

1. Filtered Water: Water is the base of any lemonade recipe, and it’s important to use filtered water to avoid any off-flavors from your tap. For the cleanest, freshest taste, I recommend using spring water or filtered water from a pitcher or filter system.
2. Cane Sugar: One of the key aspects of Hubert’s Lemonade is its sweetness without being overwhelming. The use of cane sugar gives the drink a clean, non-artificial sweetness that’s more balanced than regular white sugar. This is a must to make your homemade version taste just like the original.
3. Lemon Juice (Fresh is Best!): Freshly squeezed lemon juice is the backbone of any good lemonade. Sure, you could use bottled lemon juice, but fresh lemons have a much better flavor. They bring that zesty, natural tartness that you love in Hubert’s. Make sure you strain out the seeds and pulp to keep your drink smooth and refreshing.
4. Natural Flavors: While Hubert’s doesn’t specify exactly what their “natural flavors” are, it’s likely a blend of lemon zest or possibly even a touch of orange or lime. To keep it as close as possible to the original, you can add a tiny amount of lemon zest to your homemade version. Just a pinch goes a long way in enhancing the citrusy notes.
5. Citric Acid: Citric acid is a naturally occurring compound found in citrus fruits that adds the tart punch we crave in lemonade. It’s commonly used in lemonade recipes to enhance the sourness. You can purchase it in powdered form, but if you’re using fresh lemons, you’re already getting a natural dose of citric acid.
6. Sodium Benzoate (Preservative): This ingredient is used in commercial products to help preserve freshness. Since we’re making a fresh batch at home, we don’t need to worry about this one. No preservatives are required in this recipe, which makes your homemade lemonade even better!

The Key to the Perfect Balance: Tart and Sweet

Now that we’ve looked at the ingredients, the trick to getting that Hubert’s Lemonade flavor just right is in the balance between the tartness of the lemons and the sweetness of the cane sugar. The beauty of making it yourself is that you can adjust both to your taste. If you love it tart, add a bit more lemon juice or citric acid. If you prefer it sweeter, simply increase the amount of sugar.

A Sneak Peek at the Recipe

In the next section, I’ll walk you through the easy copycat recipe that’ll get you as close as possible to that Hubert’s Lemonade taste, minus the preservatives. You’ll be sipping on a fresh, homemade version in no time!

Better Than the Bottle: Easy Hubert’s Lemonade Copycat Recipe

Now that we know what makes Hubert’s Lemonade so special, it’s time to recreate this iconic drink in your own kitchen. The best part? It’s easier than you think! This recipe is quick to prepare, and you can enjoy it with fresh ingredients, no preservatives, just pure, tart-sweet goodness.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• Fresh Lemon Juice (from about 4-5 medium-sized lemons)
• Cane Sugar (1 cup – adjust for sweetness)
• Filtered Water (4 cups)
• Lemon Zest (optional, but adds a nice depth of flavor)
• Pinch of Sea Salt (optional, enhances sweetness)
• Ice (for serving)
• Sparkling Water (optional, for a fizzy twist)

Instructions:

1. Make the Simple Syrup:
   • In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of cane sugar and 1 cup of filtered water.
   • Heat over medium, stirring constantly, until the sugar has dissolved completely. This only takes about 3-4 minutes.
   • Set aside to cool. This syrup will help you get that perfect sweetness without any granulated sugar floating around in your lemonade.
2. Juice the Lemons:
   • While your syrup is cooling, squeeze the juice from about 4-5 fresh lemons. You should get around 1 cup of lemon juice.
   • For the most authentic taste, try to strain the juice to remove any seeds or pulp. This will leave you with smooth, pure lemon juice.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
   • In a large pitcher, combine the fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and the remaining 3 cups of filtered water.
   • Stir well to combine, tasting as you go. If you like it extra tart, feel free to add more lemon juice. If you prefer it sweeter, just add a little more syrup!
4. Optional Add-ins:
   • For that special Hubert’s twist, add a pinch of sea salt to bring out the sweetness and balance the tartness.
   • If you’re craving a bit of fizz, top off your lemonade with a splash of sparkling water just before serving.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Add ice to your glass and pour the homemade lemonade over it.
   • Garnish with a lemon slice or lemon zest for a touch of elegance.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Copycat Lemonade:

• Chill Your Lemonade: For the freshest taste, refrigerate your lemonade for at least an hour before serving. This will help the flavors meld together beautifully.
• Make It in Bulk: If you’re hosting a summer gathering, this recipe is easily scalable. Just double or triple the ingredients to make a big batch!
• Adjust for Sweetness or Tartness: Taste is everything when it comes to lemonade! If you want it tangier, add more lemon juice or a tiny bit of citric acid. For sweetness, adjust the sugar or syrup to your liking.
• Add a Twist: Want a different flavor? Try raspberry lemonade by adding a splash of raspberry puree, or mint lemonade by muddling some fresh mint leaves into the mix.

Why This Recipe is Better Than the Bottle

• No Preservatives: Unlike store-bought versions, you’re getting fresh lemonade made from real lemons and pure cane sugar. No artificial flavors or chemicals!
• Customizable: The beauty of making it at home is the freedom to tweak it. Whether you like it extra sweet, extra sour, or even a little fizzy, this recipe adapts to your preferences.
• Fresh & Flavorful: When you make it yourself, you get the freshest possible taste with vibrant lemon flavor, way better than anything you’ll find in a plastic bottle.

Tips for Storing and Serving Your Homemade Hubert’s Lemonade

Now that you’ve made your perfect homemade Hubert’s Lemonade (and maybe even tried out a few fun variations), it’s important to know how to store it properly and how to serve it for the best experience. After all, you want your lemonade to stay fresh, flavorful, and cold for the ultimate sipping experience!

1. How to Store Homemade Hubert’s Lemonade

Since you’re making your own lemonade without preservatives, proper storage is key to keeping it fresh and extending its shelf life.

In the Fridge:

• Refrigeration is a Must: Store your homemade lemonade in an airtight container or pitcher in the fridge. This will help preserve its freshness and prevent it from absorbing any other flavors from your fridge.
• Best Used Within 3-4 Days: Since there are no preservatives in your homemade version, it’s best to drink it within a few days for optimal flavor. After that, it may begin to lose some of its freshness, though it will still be safe to consume.

Freezing for Later:

• Freezer-Friendly Option: If you’ve made a large batch of lemonade and can’t drink it all right away, you can freeze it in an ice cube tray. This way, you’ll have ready-made lemonade ice cubes to add to future drinks or smoothies.
• Thawing: To thaw, just leave it in the fridge overnight or let it sit at room temperature for a few hours. Stir well before serving to bring back its original flavor.

2. How to Serve Your Hubert’s Lemonade

The way you serve your lemonade can make a huge difference in the overall experience. Whether you’re enjoying it on a hot summer day or serving it at a party, here are some tips to make it extra special:

Serve Chilled with Ice:

• For the ultimate refreshing experience, serve your lemonade over crushed ice or large ice cubes. This helps the lemonade stay cool without diluting the flavor too quickly. Ice cubes made from frozen lemonade or fruits can add a fun twist!

Garnish for Extra Appeal:

• A simple lemon slice or lemon zest on the rim of your glass makes your homemade lemonade look as good as it tastes. You can also add a sprig of fresh mint or even some edible flowers like lavender for a sophisticated touch.

Use Fun Glassware:

• Whether it’s mason jars, tall glasses, or fancy pitchers, serving your lemonade in fun glassware can make it feel even more special. For an extra summer vibe, try using mason jars for a rustic, outdoor feel.

Serve it as a Cocktail Base:

• Why not take your homemade lemonade to the next level by using it as a cocktail mixer? Add some vodka, rum, or gin to your lemonade for a refreshing summer drink. Try a Lemonade Mojito or Lemonade Margarita for something extra fun and flavorful.

3. Serving Ideas for Special Occasions

If you’re planning to serve your lemonade at a gathering or party, here are a few ideas to take it up a notch:

• Lemonade Bar: Set up a DIY lemonade bar where guests can customize their lemonade with different fruit purees (raspberry, strawberry, etc.), herbs (mint, basil), and flavorings (honey, ginger).
• Lemonade Punch: For larger groups, you can mix your homemade lemonade with sparkling water or soda for a refreshing punch. Add frozen fruit like berries or citrus slices to make it colorful and fun!

Enjoy Your Homemade Hubert’s Lemonade

With these storage and serving tips, your homemade Hubert’s Lemonade will stay fresh, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re sipping on it alone or sharing it with friends and family, it’s bound to be a hit. Cheers to your homemade creation!FAQ: All About Hubert’s Lemonade Copycat Recipe

FAQ: All About Hubert’s Lemonade Copycat Recipe

Conclusion: A Refreshing Drink, Made by You

Homemade Hubert’s Lemonade is the perfect way to enjoy this beloved drink without the hassle of searching for it in stores. By following the steps in this guide, you’ll be able to craft the perfect lemonade every time, with the flexibility to try different variations and flavors. And with no preservatives or artificial additives, you can feel great about what you’re sipping!

Now that you know how to make it, how will you customize your lemonade? Will you go with the classic tart-sweet flavor, or will you try a fun twist like raspberry or mint? Whatever you choose, I’m sure it’ll be refreshingly delicious!

Craving More Delicious Homemade Recipes?

If you loved making your own Hubert’s Lemonade at home, why not explore more mouthwatering recipes right here on Deen Recipes? Check out these fan favorites:

• Paula Deen’s Macaroni and Cheese – A rich and creamy classic that’s perfect for any family gathering.
• Sweetgreen’s Famous Miso Salmon Bowl – A healthy, flavorful bowl that’s easy to make and full of nutrition.
• Crispy Chicken Costoletta from Cheesecake Factory – The perfect crispy chicken, just like the Cheesecake Factory version.

For even more recipes to elevate your cooking game, don’t forget to visit our Recipe Blog! Whether you’re looking for quick dinners, refreshing beverages, or comfort food, we’ve got you covered.