Cherry Limeade

There’s something about summer that makes you crave refreshing drinks, and that’s exactly what I’ve got for you with this Cherry Limeade. Each sip is a burst of vibrant flavors that remind me of long, sunny afternoons spent lounging in the backyard. I can almost hear the ice clinking in my glass as I imagine serving this drink on a hot day. The sweet-tart combination of fresh cherries and zesty lime is not just thirst-quenching; it’s also a celebration of summer itself. Whether I’m hosting a backyard barbecue or just enjoying a quiet evening, this Cherry Limeade always finds a way to elevate the moment. It’s the perfect way to cool off and indulge in that summer spirit, no matter the occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Cherry Limeade

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making a delicious Cherry Limeade. The combination of fresh fruits and natural sweeteners not only enhances the flavor but also creates a refreshing drink that’s perfect for any sunny day. Let’s dive into what you’ll need!

• 1 pound cherries (fresh or frozen): These juicy fruits are the star of the drink, providing that sweet flavor and vibrant color.
• 1/2 cup orange juice: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth, balancing the tartness of the limes.
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup: A natural sweetener that complements the cherries beautifully.
• 3/4 cup lime juice (about 4 large limes): Provides the tangy kick that makes this drink so refreshing.
• 2 cups sparkling water: Gives the drink a bubbly texture that enhances the overall drinking experience.

Recipe Steps for Cherry Limeade

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s get into the fun part—making this delicious Cherry Limeade. The steps are straightforward and can be completed in just a few minutes. Follow along, and you’ll have a refreshing drink to enjoy in no time!

1. Begin by preparing the cherries. Remove the pits and stems carefully, ensuring that all are removed. This initial step is crucial for a smooth syrup.
2. Next, grab a small pot and set it over medium-high heat. Add the pitted cherries, orange juice, and maple syrup into the pot. These ingredients will meld together to create the base of your syrup.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil. Keep an eye on it, as you want to cook it just long enough to get the flavors to combine without letting it boil over.
4. After about five minutes, lower the heat if needed. You should notice the cherries starting to break down and release their juices.
5. Once the mixture is simmering, use a potato masher to mash the cherries directly in the pot. This will help extract even more flavor.
6. Continue simmering for an additional five minutes on medium-low heat. You’ll notice the syrup thickening slightly as it cooks.
7. When your cherry syrup is ready, place a fine-mesh sieve over a large bowl. Carefully pour the cherry mixture into the sieve.
8. Press down with a fork on the cherries in the sieve to extract as much juice as possible. Set aside the pulp for later use, perhaps to top some oatmeal.
9. To assemble the Cherry Limeade, fill a 12-ounce glass with ice. Then, add three tablespoons of lime juice and half a cup of sparkling water. This step is for one serving, so repeat as necessary for more.
10. Finally, stir in three tablespoons of the cherry syrup. Taste your mixture and adjust sweetness if needed, pouring in more syrup for a sweeter finish.
11. Serve immediately, garnished with a slice of lime. Enjoy your Cherry Limeade while it’s fresh and bubbly for the best experience.
12. Any leftover syrup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Remember not to mix the limeade with the sparkling water until you’re ready to serve to keep that fizz intact.

Helpful Hints

Here are some extra tips to ensure your Cherry Limeade is a hit every time:

• Storage: Store any leftover cherry syrup in the fridge in an airtight container for up to four days. It’s great to have on hand for quick drinks!
• Freezing: You can also freeze the cherry syrup in ice cube trays for a fun way to chill drinks later.
• Pairing: This refreshing Cherry Limeade pairs beautifully with light salads or grilled vegetables.
• Make it Fizzy: For a fun twist, consider adding a splash of fruit-flavored soda for an extra fizz.
• Adjustments: If you want a stronger lime flavor, simply adjust the lime juice to your liking.

Pairing Suggestions for Cherry Limeade

The Cherry Limeade is not only delicious on its own but also pairs wonderfully with various dishes and occasions. Here are some suggestions:

• Barbecues: Serve Cherry Limeade alongside grilled fish or chicken for a delightful contrast.
• Picnics: Pack Cherry Limeade in a cooler for a refreshing drink at your next outdoor event.
• Summer Parties: This drink works perfectly for summer parties and can be made in large batches to serve guests.
• Family Gatherings: A great option for family lunches or casual dinners where everyone can help themselves.
• Seasonal Serving: This drink is ideal for summer but can be enjoyed year-round by adjusting the ingredients slightly.
• Storage Tips: If you have leftover lime juice, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Cherry Limeade is a delightful blend of fresh flavors that captures the essence of summer in a glass. It’s easy to prepare and offers a refreshing twist that everyone will love. So why not try making it today? Your taste buds will thank you for this vibrant, thirst-quenching treat!

Cherry Limeade

The ultimate summer refresher, Cherry Limeade combines the sweetness of fresh cherries with zesty lime for a deliciously bubbly drink. Perfect for hot days or gatherings, this easy recipe will quickly become a favorite!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 120 kcal

Equipment

• Mixing Bowl
• Chef's Knife
• Large Pot
• Wooden Spoon
• Saucepan

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound cherries fresh or frozen
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 3/4 cup lime juice about 4 large limes
• 2 cups sparkling water

Instructions

 

• To prepare the cherry syrup, be sure to remove the pits and stems from the cherries before getting started. In a small pot over medium-high heat, combine the pitted cherries, orange juice, and maple syrup. Bring the liquid to a boil and cook for 5 minutes. Lower the heat if the syrup starts to bubble too high in the pot.
• When the timer goes off, use a potato masher to mash the cherries directly in the pot. Let the cherries simmer for 5 more minutes, over medium-low heat.
• When the cherries are done cooking, arrange a fine-mesh sieve over a large bowl, and pour the cherry mixture into the strainer. Use a fork to mash the cherries, extracting as much juice from them as possible. Reserve the cherry pulp for another use, such as topping oatmeal or a dessert.
• To prepare the limeade, fill a 12-ounce glass with ice and add 3 tablespoons of lime juice and a 1/2 cup of sparkling water. This is for 1 serving; repeat with as many servings as you'd like to make.
• Add 3 tablespoons of the cherry syrup, and stir well. Taste and make any adjustments necessary. You can add a little more cherry syrup for extra sweetness and cherry flavor. Serve right away, with a slice of lime on the glass, for the best flavor.
• You can store any leftover cherry syrup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also store leftover lime juice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. I recommend not mixing this limeade together with the sparkling water until just before you're ready to serve, so it won't lose its carbonation.

Notes

• Nutrition Tip: Nutrition information is for 1 of 4 servings, assuming you use all of the syrup in 4 glasses. This information also doesn't take into account that you are straining out a hefty portion of cherry pulp, which also will retain some of the sweetener.
• Alternative Sweeteners: If you don't have maple syrup on hand, you can also use honey or agave syrup. (If you need a vegan recipe, don't use honey.)

Keyword Cherry Limeade recipe, easy homemade beverages, refreshing cherry drinks, summer drink recipes

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Meet Olivia Bennett

For me, cooking is about connection. Whether I’m making a quick breakfast or a three course dinner, I focus on the feeling the food gives you. I love the entire process of food blogging, from chopping the first onion to adjusting the lighting for the final photo. I’m the one who reminds the team to slow down and really taste the food as we go, ensuring every recipe has that “home-cooked” warmth.