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Glass of Cherry Limeade with fresh cherries and lime slices

Cherry Limeade

A refreshing summer drink made with fresh cherries and zesty lime juice, combining sweet and tart flavors for a delightful thirst-quencher.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Beverage, Drink, Refreshment
Cuisine: American, Summer
Calories: 120
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cherry Syrup
  • 2 cups fresh cherries, washed & pitted Use ripe cherries for optimal sweetness.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar Adjust based on sweetness preference.
  • 1 cup water For cooking cherries.
For the Limeade
  • 1.5 cups fresh lime juice Adjust for more tanginess.
  • 3 cups cold water To dilute the syrup.
  • 3-4 cups ice To serve chilled.
  • 2-3 cups Sprite or other lemon-lime soda (optional) Add for fizz just before serving.
  • fresh mint leaves (optional) For garnish.
  • lime slices (optional) For garnish.
  • fresh cherries (optional) For garnish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Combine the pitted cherries, sugar, and 1 cup of water in a medium saucepan. Heat over medium heat until it simmers, then cook for about 15-20 minutes until cherries are softened.
  2. Take the mixture off the heat and let it steep for 20 minutes to concentrate flavors.
  3. Strain the syrup through a fine mesh sieve into a large pitcher, discarding solids.
  4. Add fresh lime juice to the cherry syrup and stir well to combine.
  5. Pour in the remaining 3 cups of cold water, mix gently, and chill in the refrigerator.
Serving
  1. Serve over ice, garnished with mint leaves, lime slices, or fresh cherries as desired.

Notes

For a fizzy version, mix in Sprite just before serving to maintain carbonation. Store leftover Cherry Limeade in the refrigerator for up to a week; add Sprite just before serving.