Homemade Cherry Limeades
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you make a purchase using these links. As an Amazon Associate, and a King Arthur Baking affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
We love Cherry Limeades and this homemade recipe is delicious and easy to make. We think it’s better than Sonic’s and we really love Sonic. Please don’t get me started on their onion rings, tater tots or foot-long chili dogs!
(Post modified with new photos on 6/7/23.)
There is just something about a fresh, cold, sweet drink in the summer when it’s hot. Like lemonade, sweet tea, or cherry limeades served over ice so cold it steams when you pour the liquid over it. Yum.
I’ve been making this recipe for many years now, and it’s always refreshing. It requires a simple syrup made from sugar and water, freshly squeezed lime juice, cherry juice, and club soda.
When it comes to cherry juice, I often have dark cherry juice concentrate in the fridge, which I use for sciatic back pain, and this works quite well. (I buy it HERE for the best price.) Sometimes I’ll simply use the juice from maraschino cherries–quite delicious. Or you could try Torani cherry syrup.
For carbonation, I prefer to use Club Soda or Ginger Ale, but have also used lemon-lime soda, such as 7-up, although this adds more citrus flavor to the drink. As I always suggest, use what you have on hand or in the pantry.
Ingredients for Homemade Cherry Limeades
(See the full recipe at the bottom of this post.)
- sugar
- water
- fresh lime juice (between 4-6 limes)
- pure cherry juice
- club soda
- maraschino cherries for garnish
Instructions for this Recipe
Gather the ingredients so that you have everything close at hand on the counter or table.
Prepare the Simple Syrup
In a small saucepan, combine the granulated sugar with the water over medium heat to create a simple syrup. Allow to boil, stirring until the sugar has dissolved. Set aside when done to cool completely.
I like to make my simple syrup ahead of time in a larger batch to store in the refrigerator, ready to use as needed! Just remember to use half sugar to half water. Boil until the sugar dissolves and store in a covered container or jar.
Juice the Limes
To easily squeeze juice from limes, first heat each lime for 10 seconds in microwave. Then roll limes in a circular motion with the palm of your hand for 30-40 seconds.
If your limes have been stored at room temperature, you may skip heating them in the microwave. This step is simply to bring them to room temperature.
Slice limes in half and squeeze juice into a measuring glass. I like to use a lemon juicer for this job. It makes things so simple!
Make the Cherry Limeade
In a large serving pitcher (preferably clear glass), combine the cooled simple syrup, lime juice, and cherry juice. If you don’t have tart cherry juice, you can use maraschino cherry juice. Both are equally delicious.
When ready to serve, add the club soda. Stir together with a long-handled spoon to combine. Serve immediately in clear glasses over crushed ice or small ice cubes.
If desired, garnish with maraschino cherries and/or sliced limes. This recipe will serve 4 people.
Always use fresh juice from limes to make these Homemade Cherry Limeades. Fresh is always best! Serve over crushed ice on a hot summer day! Enjoy!
See more Refreshment Ideas Here. Browse Cherry Recipes Here.
Homemade Cherry Limeades
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup water
- 1/2 cup fresh lime juice between 4-6 limes
- 1/2 cup pure tart cherry juice
- 24 oz club soda or ginger ale
- maraschino cherries and fresh lime for garnish
Instructions
- Gather the ingredients so you have everything close at hand on the counter or table.
Prepare the Simple Syrup
- In a small saucepan, combine the granulated sugar with the water over medium heat to create a simple syrup.
- Allow to boil, stirring until the sugar has dissolved. Set aside when done to cool completely.
Juice the Limes
- To easily squeeze juice from limes, first heat each lime for 10 seconds in microwave. Then roll limes in a circular motion with the palm of your hand for 30-40 seconds.(If your limes have been stored at room temperature, you may skip heating them in the microwave. This step is simply to bring them to room temperature.)
- Slice limes in half and squeeze juice into a measuring glass. I like to use a lemon juicer for this job. It makes things so simple!
Make the Cherry Limeades
- In a serving pitcher, combine simple syrup, lime juice, and cherry juice.
- Add club soda or ginger ale when ready to serve. Stir together to combine and serve immediately over crushed ice.
- Garnish with slices of fresh lime and/or maraschino cherries. Serves 4
Nutrition