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Homemade Cherry Limeade

A refreshing blend of sweet cherry flavor and tangy lime juice, perfect for hot days or casual gatherings. This drink is easy to make and visually appealing, capturing the essence of summer in every sip.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Beverage, Drink
Cuisine: American, Summer
Calories: 120
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cherry Syrup
  • 2 cups fresh cherries, washed & pitted Choose ripe, dark red cherries for maximum flavor.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar Adjust to taste.
  • 1 cup water For simmering the cherries.
For the Limeade
  • 1.5 cups fresh lime juice About 6-8 limes, depending on size.
  • 3 cups cold water For diluting the syrup.
  • 3-4 cups ice For serving.
  • 2-3 cups Sprite or other lemon-lime soda Optional for fizziness.
For Garnish
  • fresh mint leaves For a refreshing touch.
  • lime slices For a decorative garnish.

Method
 

Make the Cherry Syrup
  1. In a medium saucepan, combine the pitted cherries, granulated sugar, and 1 cup of water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, and cook for about 15-20 minutes until the cherries soften and release their juices.
  2. Remove the saucepan from heat and let the syrup steep for about 20 minutes.
  3. Strain the cherry syrup through a fine mesh sieve into a large pitcher, discarding the solids.
Mix the Limeade
  1. Add the fresh lime juice to the strained syrup and stir well to combine.
  2. Pour in the remaining 3 cups of cold water to dilute the syrup to your desired taste.
  3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator until it’s ready to serve.
Serve
  1. Serve over ice and garnish with fresh mint leaves and lime slices as desired.

Notes

Store the cherry limeade in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain freshness and carbonation if using soda, prepare the syrup and store it separately from the water until serving.