How to Make the Perfect Cherry Limeade
American · Easy · 8 min · 2 servings
This classic cherry limeade combines sweet maraschino cherry syrup with fresh squeezed lime juice and sparkling water for a bright red and irresistibly refreshing summer drink. This easy homemade cherry limeade recipe rivals any fast food version and is perfect for cookouts, road trips, and hot afternoons.
Why this recipe works
This Cherry Limeade recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 8 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 120 calories with 0g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 5 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 0.5 cup fresh lime juice
- 0.33 cup maraschino cherry syrup
- 2 cups sparkling water
- 6 whole maraschino cherries
- 2 cups ice
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Mix the Base
In a glass or pitcher stir together fresh lime juice and maraschino cherry syrup until fully combined.
Step 2: Add Sparkling Water
Pour in sparkling water slowly and stir gently to keep the drink fizzy and well mixed.
Step 3: Serve and Garnish
Fill glasses with ice, pour the cherry limeade over top, and garnish with maraschino cherries and lime wedges for a classic presentation.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- maraschino cherry syrup → cherry juice concentrate
- sparkling water → lemon-lime soda for a sweeter version
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Using bottled lime juice instead of fresh which gives a dull and artificial flavor
- Over-stirring after adding sparkling water which causes it to go flat immediately
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 120 calories, 0g protein, 30g carbs, 0g fat, 0g fiber.
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