Classic Lemonade Syrup

Directions

1. 1
   In a large bowl, combine sugar and 1 1/4 cups steaming hot water.
2. 2
   Stir occasionally until sugar is dissolved, 1 to 2 minutes.
3. 3
   Meanwhile, grate 1 tablespoon lemon peel (yellow part only) from 2 or 3 lemons.
4. 4
   Add peel to warm sugar mixture; let cool about 10 minutes.
5. 5
   Cut all lemons in half and ream enough juice to make 1 3/4 cups.
6. 6
   Add to sugar mixture.
7. 7
   Use immediately as syrup for lemonade, or cover and chill up to 3 days.
8. 8
   To make each serving, add ice cubes, 1/3 cup lemon syrup, and 2/3 cup water; stir.
9. 9
   Garnish glass rim with lemon slices, or stir slices into lemonade.