Go Back

Cherry Limeade

This homemade cherry limeade features a vibrant cherry syrup, fresh lime juice, and is refreshingly cold with a balance of sweet and tart flavors.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Beverage, Drink
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cherry Syrup
  • 2 cups fresh cherries, washed & pitted
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup water For making the syrup base
For the Limeade
  • 1.5 cups fresh lime juice No bottled juice, it must be fresh for the best flavor.
  • 3 cups cold water Added after mixing syrup and lime juice.
  • 3-4 cups ice For serving.
  • 2-3 cups Sprite (or other lemon-lime soda) Optional for a bubbly finish.
  • to taste fresh mint leaves For garnish.
  • to taste lime slices, wedges, or wheels For garnish.

Method
 

Making the Cherry Syrup
  1. In a medium saucepan, combine the pitted cherries, sugar, and 1 cup water. Bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
  2. Cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cherries are very softened and the liquid is deeply tinted red and slightly syrupy.
  3. Take the pan off the heat and let it sit for about 20 minutes.
  4. Pour the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove the solids, resulting in a smooth syrup.
Building the Limeade
  1. Add the strained cherry syrup to a large pitcher, then add the fresh lime juice and stir until fully combined.
  2. Add 3 cups cold water and stir again.
  3. Refrigerate until it's very cold.
  4. Just before serving, add 3-4 cups of ice and garnish with mint, lime wheels, or fresh cherries.

Notes

Juice the limes fresh for the best flavor. Chill the pitcher to keep the drink bold, and only add ice just before serving to prevent dilution. Consider adding Sprite for a sweeter, fizzier alternative.