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Cherry Limeade Drink: Refreshing Recipe for a Perfect Summer Beverage

A refreshing Cherry Limeade made with fresh cherries and zesty lime juice, perfect for summer gatherings or a relaxing day at home. Enjoy it chilled with a splash of sparkling water for a fizzy twist!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved
  • 1 cup fresh lime juice (about 810 limes)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 4 cups sparkling water or club soda
  • Ice cubes
  • Fresh lime slices, for garnish
  • Fresh cherries, for garnish
  • Mint leaves, optional for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine the pitted and halved cherries with 1 cup of granulated sugar. Stir gently to coat the cherries with the sugar.
  2. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the cherries start to release their juices (about 5-7 minutes).
  3. Once the cherries are soft and the mixture is bubbling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for an additional 10 minutes to concentrate the flavors.
  4. Remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
  5. Using a fine mesh strainer, strain the cherry mixture into a bowl or jar, pressing down on the cherries to extract as much juice as possible. Discard the solids.
  6. In a large pitcher, pour in the freshly squeezed lime juice, straining it to remove any seeds or pulp.
  7. Add the cherry syrup to the lime juice in the pitcher and stir well to combine. Adjust sweetness by adding more syrup if desired.
  8. Taste the mixture and adjust the lime juice or syrup according to your preference.
  9. Fill a glass with ice cubes.
  10. Pour the cherry-lime mixture over the ice, filling the glass about two-thirds full.
  11. Top off the glass with sparkling water or club soda and stir gently to combine.
  12. Garnish with a slice of fresh lime, a few whole cherries, and mint leaves if desired.

Notes

  • Serve in mason jars for a rustic look.
  • Freeze cherry juice in ice cube trays to prevent dilution.
  • For an adult version, add a splash of vodka or rum.
  • Pair with light snacks for a complete summer meal.