Copycat Homemade Cherry Limeade

This copycat homemade cherry limeade uses fresh cherries and orange cider which add a fun twist to the classic summer drink because it’s so easy to make !! It is one of my all-time favorite party drinks and you should make it for your next party since everyone will want a refill.

You know those scorching summer days when you’re practically melting into the porch chair Well, this drink was born on one of those because we’d just finished mowing the lawn—or rather, mostly watching the kids attempt it—and everyone was grumpy yet sweaty and somehow still full of energy so yeah, classic.

I remembered we had some leftover cherries from a pie that never made it since don’t ask and also a couple of limes that were hanging on for dear life in the fridge. So I tossed them together then added a little sparkle and just like that—boom, cherry limeade magic.

Not gonna lie but the first batch was aggressive as in way too tart which meant the kids made faces and even worse, one spit it back into the sink which was kinda rude. However, round two turned out to be a total win.

Have you ever had that perfect mix of sweet and zingy that just hits right? Well then, this is it, trust me and if you accidentally add a splash of vodka for the grown-ups—let’s just say, no judgment because I call that “mom’s version.”

Let me know if you’d like a shorter or more stylized version!

Ingredients :

• 2 cups fresh cherries, washed & pitted
• 1 cup granulated sugar 200 grams
• 1/2 cups fresh lime juice
• 3 cups cold water
• 3–4 cups ice

Optional Garnish :

• Fresh mint leaves
• Lime slices, wedges, or wheels
• Fresh cherries

How to Make  Homemade Cherry Limeade

Step 1

Make The Cherry Syrup. In a medium saucepan, combine pitted cherries, sugar, and 1 cup of water. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat and cook 15-20 minutes to soften the cherries and infuse the syrup. Remove the pan from the heat and let the syrup steep about 20 minutes. Strain the cherry syrup through a fine mesh sieve .

Step 2

Juice the Limes: Squeeze your fresh limes and strain the juice to remove seeds and pulp. You should get about 1 cup .

Step 3

Combine. Add strained cherry syrup to a large pitcher along with the lime juice. Stir to combine well. Add cold water. Chill until ready to serve .

Step 4

Serve Cold: Fill glasses with ice, pour in the limeade, and top with a cherry or lime slice for fun and store leftover limeade in the fridge 3-4 days .

Kitchen Equipment Needed :

• Citrus juicer manual or electric
• Small saucepan if using fresh cherries
• Spoon or potato masher
• Strainer
• Measuring cups
• Pitcher
• Glasses
• Knife and cutting board

Recipes Tips

Use fresh limes for the brightest flavor as for the Frozen cherries work just as well as fresh ones if cherries aren’t in season.

Chill all your ingredients before mixing to keep the drink nice and cold without too much ice.

Make it fizzy-free by replacing soda with still water if you prefer no bubbles.

What to Eat with Homemade Cherry Limeade ??

This drink is light, fruity, and fizzy, which makes it perfect to pair with salty, spicy, or smoky foods.
it goes great with all kinds of foods and summer food also
For me I love it with Garlic Parmesan and for my friends they also love it with sweet like Creamy Cheesecake brownies .

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FAQ’S

Can I use bottled cherry juice instead of fresh cherries ?

Yes! Just make sure it’s 100% cherry juice with no added sugar if possible .

Is this drink good for kids?

Yes! It’s a fun, fruity drink with no caffeine, so it’s great for kids. Just watch the sugar if you’re limiting sweets .

Can I use lemon juice instead of lime juice?

You can, but it will taste different. Limes give it that tangy “limeade” flavor that’s key to the recipe .

How can I make this drink less sweet?

Use less sugar or skip the soda and use sparkling water instead. You can also try adding more lime juice for extra tartness .