Cherry Limeade

This Cherry Limeade is a refreshing, sweet-tart drink that’s perfect for hot days, backyard parties, or anytime you want a fun, fizzy treat. With bright cherry flavor and a zesty lime kick, it’s an easy homemade version of your favorite drive-thru drink.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love how quick and simple this Cherry Limeade is to make. It’s bursting with real fruit flavor, can be made with or without alcohol, and is perfect for serving a crowd. It’s also easy to customize to your preferred sweetness and tartness. One sip will transport you straight to summer!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Fresh lime juice
• Maraschino cherry juice (or grenadine)
• Simple syrup or sugar (optional, to adjust sweetness)
• Lemon-lime soda (like Sprite or 7-Up)
• Ice cubes
• Maraschino cherries, for garnish
• Fresh lime slices, for garnish

Directions

1. Fill a large glass or pitcher with ice cubes.
2. Add fresh lime juice and cherry juice. Stir to combine.
3. Pour in the lemon-lime soda and stir gently. Taste and add simple syrup if you want it sweeter.
4. Garnish with maraschino cherries and lime slices.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. It takes about 5 minutes to prepare — quick, easy, and no cooking required!

Variations

• Make it boozy: Add a splash of vodka, rum, or tequila for an adult version.
• Use frozen cherries instead of maraschino for a fresher flavor.
• Swap lemon-lime soda for club soda to reduce sugar.
• Add fresh mint leaves for a twist.
• Use cherry syrup instead of juice for an extra sweet treat.

Storage/Reheating

Cherry Limeade is best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftovers, store the base mixture (without soda) in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Add fresh soda and ice right before serving to keep it fizzy. No reheating needed.

FAQs

Can I make Cherry Limeade ahead of time?

Yes, mix the lime and cherry juice ahead, then add soda and ice just before serving.

What’s the best soda for Cherry Limeade?

Lemon-lime soda like Sprite, 7-Up, or Sierra Mist works great.

Can I use fresh cherries?

Absolutely! Muddle them in the glass for a more natural flavor.

How do I make it less sweet?

Use less cherry juice and simple syrup, or swap soda for sparkling water.

Is Cherry Limeade alcoholic?

This recipe is non-alcoholic, but you can add liquor if you’d like.

Can I use bottled lime juice?

Fresh lime juice is best, but bottled works in a pinch.

What’s the difference between cherry juice and grenadine?

Grenadine is a sweet cherry-flavored syrup, while cherry juice can be more tart.

How do I keep the drink fizzy?

Add the soda just before serving and stir gently.

Can I make this sugar-free?

Use diet soda and skip the simple syrup for a lower-sugar version.

What can I garnish Cherry Limeade with?

Lime slices, maraschino cherries, fresh cherries, or mint leaves all work well.

Conclusion

Cherry Limeade is a bright, fun, and refreshing drink that’s always a crowd-pleaser. With its perfect balance of sweet cherry and zesty lime, it’s the ultimate summer sip. Make a big pitcher and enjoy it with family and friends — you’ll want to make it again and again!

Print