Cherry Limeade is a bright, citrusy, and fizzy drink that brings together fresh lime juice, sweet maraschino cherry syrup, and chilled lemon-lime soda over crushed ice. I like how it captures the perfect balance of tart and sweet, making it a favorite for parties, picnics, or just cooling off on a hot afternoon.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I make this cherry limeade when I want something refreshing and fun that’s easy to serve a crowd. It’s non-alcoholic by default but turns into a great cocktail base if needed. The combo of fresh-squeezed lime juice and sweet cherry syrup gives it a vibrant flavor—and I can always adjust the sweetness to my taste.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Crushed ice
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1–2 medium limes, thinly sliced
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1 jar (10 ounces) maraschino cherries, drained (reserve the syrup)
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1 cup fresh lime juice (from about 8–10 limes), chilled
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½ cup superfine granulated sugar (or homemade by pulsing regular sugar)
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1 bottle (2 liters) lemon-lime soda, chilled
Directions
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I start by filling a large pitcher halfway with crushed ice and add lime slices on top.
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Then I add in the maraschino cherries, making sure to set aside the syrup.
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In a medium bowl, I mix the fresh lime juice and sugar until the sugar starts to dissolve.
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I pour the lime mixture into the pitcher, followed by the reserved cherry syrup.
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Finally, I add the lemon-lime soda and give everything a gentle stir.
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I serve it immediately for the freshest flavor and fizzy texture.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 10 (8-ounce glasses)
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Variations
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Boozy Version: I like adding a shot of vodka or cherry vodka to each glass for an adult twist. Coconut rum also works beautifully.
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Homemade Soda: I sometimes make a simple lemon-lime soda at home using sparkling water, lemon juice, and lime juice if I want less sugar.
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Frozen Cherry Limeade: I blend the ingredients with ice to make a slushy-style version.
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Sugar-Free: I use a sugar substitute and diet soda for a lighter version.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: I don’t store this one long because the soda loses its fizz quickly.
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Make Ahead Tip: I prep the lime juice and sugar mix ahead of time and refrigerate it. When I’m ready to serve, I add the cherries, soda, and ice.
FAQs
Can I use bottled lime juice instead of fresh?
Yes, but I prefer fresh-squeezed lime juice for a cleaner, brighter flavor.
How do I make the sugar dissolve faster?
I use superfine sugar or pulse granulated sugar in a blender or food processor for a finer texture. Stirring it into warm lime juice also helps.
Can I make this drink ahead of time?
I prep everything except the soda and ice ahead of time. I add those just before serving to keep it fizzy and fresh.
What’s the best alcohol to add for a cocktail version?
Vodka is my go-to for a clean taste, but cherry vodka or coconut rum adds even more flavor.
Can I use frozen cherries?
Yes, they work well and help keep the drink cold. Just note they won’t provide syrup, so I might want to use a little grenadine or cherry juice.
Conclusion
Cherry Limeade is one of my favorite drinks to make when I want something sweet, tart, and completely refreshing. It’s fast, festive, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether I serve it to kids on a summer day or spike it for a grown-up evening, it’s a hit every time.
Print
Cherry Limeade
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings (8-ounce glasses)
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cherry Limeade is a sweet, tart, and fizzy summer drink made with fresh lime juice, maraschino cherry syrup, and lemon-lime soda over crushed ice. It’s easy to make, refreshingly vibrant, and perfect for both kids and adults.
Ingredients
Crushed ice
1–2 medium limes, thinly sliced
1 jar (10 ounces) maraschino cherries, drained (reserve the syrup)
1 cup fresh lime juice (from about 8–10 limes), chilled
½ cup superfine granulated sugar (or homemade by pulsing regular sugar)
1 bottle (2 liters) lemon-lime soda, chilled
Instructions
- Fill a large pitcher halfway with crushed ice and add lime slices on top.
- Add the maraschino cherries, reserving the syrup.
- In a medium bowl, mix the lime juice and sugar until the sugar begins to dissolve.
- Pour the lime juice mixture and reserved cherry syrup into the pitcher.
- Add the chilled lemon-lime soda and gently stir to combine.
- Serve immediately for the freshest flavor and best fizz.
Notes
Add a shot of vodka, cherry vodka, or coconut rum to each glass for an adult version.
Make a slushy-style version by blending all ingredients with ice.
Use a sugar substitute and diet soda for a lower-calorie version.
Frozen cherries can replace maraschino cherries, but add grenadine or cherry juice for syrup.
Prep lime juice and sugar mix ahead of time and store in the fridge until ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Drinks
- Method: Mixed
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 glass (8 oz)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 26g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
