Cherry Limeade
Cherry Limeade is a delightful, refreshing drink that combines the zesty flavor of fresh lime juice with the sweetness of maraschino cherries and fizzy lemon-lime soda. Perfect for summer gatherings, backyard barbecues, or any occasion needing a cool beverage, this non-alcoholic treat is both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Its vibrant color and tangy taste make it a standout choice that everyone will enjoy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This Cherry Limeade comes together in just five minutes, making it an ideal choice for last-minute gatherings.
- Refreshing Flavor: The combination of tart lime and sweet cherry creates a flavor profile that is both refreshing and enjoyable on hot days.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over ice for an instant chill or blend it up for an extra frosty treat!
- Crowd-Pleasing Drink: With enough servings for 10 glasses, it’s perfect for parties, picnics, or family gatherings.
- Easy to Customize: You can adjust the sweetness by modifying the sugar content or even add fresh fruits for extra flavor.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare this delightful Cherry Limeade, you’ll need some essential tools and equipment. These will help you mix and serve your drink efficiently.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- pitcher
- mixing bowl
- measuring cup
- stirring spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Pitcher: A pitcher allows you to mix all ingredients in one container while making it easy to serve multiple guests at once.
- Mixing Bowl: Using a bowl makes combining lime juice with sugar simple, ensuring even distribution before adding it to the pitcher.
Ingredients
For the Base
- crushed ice
- 1-2 medium limes, (thinly sliced)
- 1 jar (10-ounces) maraschino cherries, (drained, syrup reserved)
- 1 cup (8-10 limes) lime juice, (chilled)
For Sweetness and Fizz
- ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar, (superfine)
- 1 bottle (2-liters) lemon-lime soda, (chilled)
How to Make Cherry Limeade
Step 1: Prepare the Ice and Fruit
Fill a pitcher halfway with crushed ice. Top with thinly sliced lime pieces to infuse flavor into the drink.
Step 2: Add Cherries
Add the drained maraschino cherries on top of the ice. Remember to reserve the syrup for later use!
Step 3: Mix Lime Juice and Sugar
In a medium bowl, combine chilled lime juice with superfine sugar. Stir until the sugar starts to dissolve completely.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients in Pitcher
Pour your lime juice mixture into the pitcher over the ice. Next, add the reserved cherry syrup for that extra burst of sweetness.
Step 5: Add Soda and Serve
Finally, pour in the chilled lemon-lime soda. Gently stir everything together to combine all flavors. Serve immediately for maximum refreshment!
How to Serve Cherry Limeade
When it comes to enjoying your Cherry Limeade, presentation and pairing are key. This vibrant drink is perfect for hot days, parties, or casual get-togethers. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your Cherry Limeade experience.
In a Festive Pitcher
- Serve the Cherry Limeade in a large, decorative pitcher filled with ice. Add slices of lime and cherries for a beautiful display that invites everyone to pour themselves a glass.
With Fresh Mint Garnish
- Top each glass with a sprig of fresh mint. This not only adds color but also enhances the aroma, making every sip more refreshing.
In Mason Jars
- Use mason jars for an adorable rustic touch. They’re easy to hold and perfect for outdoor gatherings or picnics.
With Fruit Skewers
- Create fruit skewers using lime wedges, cherries, and even strawberries. Serve them alongside the drink for a fun and interactive experience.
As a Slushie
- Blend the Cherry Limeade with ice for a slushie version. This is especially delightful in the summertime when you want something extra cold.

How to Perfect Cherry Limeade
To ensure your Cherry Limeade is absolutely delicious, here are some tips to keep in mind.
- Use Fresh Limes: Freshly squeezed lime juice will provide the best flavor compared to bottled juice.
- Chill Ingredients: Make sure all ingredients, including the soda and lime juice, are chilled before mixing for a refreshing drink.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste your mixture before serving; you can always add more sugar or cherry syrup if it’s not sweet enough.
- Experiment with Flavors: Try adding other fruits like strawberries or raspberries for a unique twist on this classic drink.
- Serve Immediately: For the best fizz and freshness, serve your Cherry Limeade right after preparation.
- Garnish Creatively: Don’t hesitate to experiment with garnishes like edible flowers or citrus zest to enhance presentation.
Best Side Dishes for Cherry Limeade
Cherry Limeade pairs well with various side dishes that complement its sweet and tangy flavor. Here are some great options to consider when serving this refreshing drink.
- Spicy Nachos: Crispy tortilla chips topped with melted cheese and jalapeños provide a savory contrast to the sweetness of Cherry Limeade.
- Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken skewers add protein and are easy for guests to enjoy alongside their drinks.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a light dish that balances the sweetness of the drink.
- Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits enhances the fruity notes in Cherry Limeade while keeping things light and fresh.
- Mini Sliders: Beef or veggie sliders offer heartiness that complements the drink’s refreshing qualities without being too heavy.
- Stuffed Jalapeños: Cream cheese-stuffed jalapeños give a spicy kick that contrasts nicely with the coolness of your beverage.
- Veggie Platter: Crisp vegetables served with dip provide crunch and healthiness as an accompaniment to Cherry Limeade.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses adds richness; pair it with crackers or breadsticks for variety in textures and flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Cherry Limeade can be simple, but several common mistakes can ruin your drink. Here are some tips to ensure you get it right.
- Using stale ingredients: Always use fresh limes and maraschino cherries for the best flavor. Stale or old ingredients can lead to a dull taste.
- Skipping the sugar: Not adding sugar will result in a drink that’s too tart. Use superfine sugar to dissolve quickly and enhance sweetness without graininess.
- Over-mixing: Stir gently when combining the lime juice and soda. Over-mixing can cause the carbonation to dissipate, leading to a flat drink.
- Neglecting ice quality: Using ice that has absorbed odors from your freezer can affect the taste. Make sure to use fresh, clean crushed ice for optimal flavor.
- Not adjusting sweetness: Everyone’s taste buds are different. Always taste your Cherry Limeade before serving and adjust the sugar as needed for a balance of sweet and tart.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Cherry Limeade in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- It will stay fresh for up to 2 days, but it’s best enjoyed within 24 hours.
Freezing Cherry Limeade
- Pour Cherry Limeade into ice cube trays or freezer-safe containers.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months; however, texture may change upon thawing.
Reheating Cherry Limeade
- Oven: Not recommended as heating may alter flavor and fizz.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts; stir after each interval to avoid hot spots.
- Stovetop: Heat gently on low heat while stirring; do not boil as this will lose carbonation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Cherry Limeade:
Can I make Cherry Limeade ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the lime juice mixture ahead of time and add soda just before serving for freshness.
What other fruits can I use in my Cherry Limeade?
Feel free to experiment with other fruits like strawberries or raspberries for a unique twist on this classic drink.
How do I make this Cherry Limeade recipe alcoholic?
To create an alcoholic version, simply add your favorite vodka or rum into the mix before serving.
Is there a way to lower the sugar content in Cherry Limeade?
Absolutely! You can substitute granulated sugar with a natural sweetener like agave syrup or stevia for a healthier option.
Final Thoughts
Cherry Limeade is an incredibly refreshing drink perfect for any occasion, from summer picnics to cozy gatherings. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different fruits or adjust sweetness levels, making it suitable for everyone’s palate. Give this delightful recipe a try, and enjoy its vibrant flavors!

Cherry Limeade
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x
Description
Cherry Limeade is the ultimate refreshing summer drink that perfectly balances zesty lime and sweet maraschino cherries. This delightful, non-alcoholic beverage combines freshly squeezed lime juice with fizzy lemon-lime soda to create a vibrant, thirst-quenching treat that’s perfect for any occasion—be it picnics, barbecues, or casual get-togethers. With its cheerful color and tangy flavor, Cherry Limeade is sure to please both kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to make in just five minutes!
Ingredients
- Crushed ice
- 1–2 medium limes (thinly sliced)
- 1 jar (10 ounces) maraschino cherries (drained, syrup reserved)
- 1 cup lime juice (chilled)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 bottle (2 liters) lemon-lime soda (chilled)
Instructions
- Fill a pitcher halfway with crushed ice and top with thinly sliced limes.
- Add drained maraschino cherries on top of the ice.
- In a mixing bowl, combine chilled lime juice and granulated sugar; stir until dissolved.
- Pour the lime mixture into the pitcher over the ice and add reserved cherry syrup.
- Top off with chilled lemon-lime soda and gently stir to combine. Serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Drink
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 glass (8oz)
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg