Cherry Limeade

The Crispy Chef

This homemade cherry limeade is a refreshing and flavorful summer drink that tastes even better than Sonic's! Made with real cherries, fresh lime juice, and a hint of fizz, this easy recipe is perfect for any occasion. Customize the sweetness and tartness to your preference and enjoy a naturally delicious beverage.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 10

Total Time 20

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Servings

Calories 80 kcal

Equipment

Small saucepan
Wooden spoon
Fine-mesh strainer
Large pitcher
Glasses

Ingredients

Base Ingredients:
1 cup fresh cherries pitted
½ cup fresh lime juice about 4-5 limes
⅓ cup granulated sugar
4 cups sparkling water
Ice cubes
Lime slices and whole cherries for garnish
Optional Add-ins:
2 tbsp cherry juice concentrate
Splash of vanilla extract
Fresh mint leaves

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cherry Syrup
Place pitted cherries and sugar in a small saucepan.
Add ¼ cup water and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
Mash cherries with a wooden spoon while cooking.
Simmer for about 10 minutes until cherries break down and the mixture thickens.
Remove from heat when the syrup coats the back of a spoon.
Strain through a fine mesh strainer, pressing to extract all juice.
Let cool completely.
Step 2: Mix the Base
In a large pitcher, combine fresh lime juice with the cooled cherry syrup.
Stir well until fully mixed.
Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
Chill the mixture for at least 30 minutes.
Step 3: Serve Your Cherry Limeade
Fill glasses with ice cubes.
Pour in the cherry-lime mixture about halfway.
Top with sparkling water and stir gently.
Garnish with lime slices and fresh cherries.
Serve immediately while still fizzy and cold.

Notes

Don't mix sparkling water into the entire pitcher unless serving immediately, as it will lose carbonation.

For a slushie version, blend the cherry limeade base with 2 cups of ice.

Can substitute sugar with stevia, honey, or maple syrup.

Add a splash of vodka or rum for an adult cocktail twist.

Nutrition

Calories: 80kcalCarbohydrates: 21gProtein: 0.5gSugar: 18g

Keyword cherry drink, cherry limead, homemade cherry limeade, limeade recipe, refreshing summer drink