Cherry Limeade is a cool and invigorating non-alcoholic beverage made with freshly squeezed lime juice, lemon-lime soda, and maraschino cherries, all poured over crushed ice. This delightful drink is perfect for quenching your thirst on a hot day.
If you’ve ever visited Sonic Drive-In, the popular fast-food chain, you’re likely familiar with their variety of Limeade drinks. Inspired by these refreshing beverages, this homemade Cherry Limeade recipe adds an extra touch of sweetness with a bit of sugar. It’s a kid-friendly drink, but you can easily transform it into an adult cocktail with a splash of vodka or coconut rum.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Ice: Crushed ice is ideal for this refreshing drink, but any type of ice will work.
Cherries: Use maraschino cherries and make sure to reserve the cherry juice (syrup) from the jar to enhance the flavor of the drink.
Limes: You’ll need about 1 cup of freshly squeezed lime juice, which requires approximately 8-10 limes. Chill the juice until you’re ready to use it. Additionally, slice 1-2 more limes to add to the pitcher for extra flavor and presentation.
Sugar: Superfine sugar (caster sugar) dissolves easily and is perfect for this recipe. If you don’t have any on hand, you can make your own by pulsing granulated sugar in a food processor until it’s fine.
Soda: Use your favorite brand of lemon-lime soda, such as Sprite or 7-Up. For a homemade touch, you can even make your own lemon-lime soda.
Can I Add Alcohol to Cherry Limeade?
Absolutely! To make an adult version of this refreshing drink, add a splash of vodka—cherry-flavored vodka works exceptionally well. Some people also enjoy it with coconut rum for a tropical twist.
Can Limeade Be Made Ahead of Time?
Cherry Limeade is best served fresh because the carbonation from the soda tends to fade over time. If you’re making a large batch for a gathering, keep extra soda on hand to refresh the carbonation just before serving.
Ingredients
- Crushed ice
- 1-2 medium limes, thinly sliced
- 1 jar (10 ounces / 283 grams) maraschino cherries, drained, syrup reserved
- 1 cup lime juice, chilled (from about 8-10 limes)
- ½ cup (100 grams) granulated sugar, superfine
- 1 bottle (2 liters) lemon-lime soda, chilled
Instructions
Prepare the Pitcher:
- Fill a large pitcher halfway with crushed ice.
- Add the thinly sliced limes on top of the ice.
Add Cherries:
- Add the drained maraschino cherries to the pitcher.
- Reserve the cherry syrup from the jar for later use.
Make the Lime Juice Mixture:
- In a medium bowl, combine the chilled lime juice and superfine sugar.
- Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved.
Combine Ingredients:
- Pour the lime juice and sugar mixture into the pitcher over the ice and limes.
- Add the reserved cherry syrup to the pitcher.
Add Soda and Serve:
- Pour the chilled lemon-lime soda into the pitcher.
- Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.
- Serve immediately in glasses over additional crushed ice if desired.
Enjoy this Refreshing Homemade Cherry Limeade as a delightful way to cool down and satisfy your thirst. It’s perfect for parties, barbecues, or a simple family gathering. Cheers!
