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Honey Sweetened Fresh Cherry Limeade is my answer to summer afternoons when you want all the refreshing soda-shop nostalgia with none of the crash from refined sugar. This homemade cherry limeade uses whole fruit and honey for a sweet-tart sip that is perfect for sipping on the patio or bottling up for later. Even better you can keep the syrup in the fridge or freezer so a fizzy treat is always just a few minutes away.
This recipe was my go-to last cherry season when I had a huge farmers market haul that needed to be used fast. My family now asks for it by name the minute the first ripe cherries hit the stands.
Ingredients
- Fresh sweet cherries: add bright color and an intense cherry flavor Pitting the cherries is a little work but really worth it Try to choose cherries that are deep red and slightly soft for the most flavor
- Raw honey: brings soft floral sweetness that works so well with cherries Look for light gold honey that tastes clean and pure
- Lime zest: packs the syrup with a citrus punch Choose unwaxed limes with firm skins
- Freshly squeezed lime juice: balances the sweetness of the cherries and honey Pick limes that are heavy for their size and give just slightly when squeezed
- Club soda: adds bubbles and makes the entire drink feel extra refreshing A good quality club soda will taste crisp and clean without any bitterness
- Fresh cherries and lime slices: perfect for garnish help make every glass feel special
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Simmer the Cherries and Water:
- Place pitted cherries into a medium sauce pot with the water Bring this to a gentle boil then turn heat down and mash the cherries a bit Cover with the lid ajar so some steam can escape Let it simmer for about fifteen minutes You want the cherries to soften completely and release all their juices
- Blend the Syrup:
- Transfer the simmered cherries plus all their cooking liquids into a blender Add raw honey lime zest and lime juice then blend until the syrup is completely smooth If you see any bits of cherry peel or solids left strain them out through a fine mesh strainer for a silky finish
- Chill the Syrup:
- Pour the cherry lime syrup into a container and let it chill in the refrigerator This helps it thicken a bit and makes your drinks extra crisp
- Build Individual Limeades:
- Add ice to an eight ounce glass Pour in two ounces of cherry syrup Then top with club soda Stir gently so it all mixes evenly Drop in fresh cherries and lime slices as a lovely garnish
- Make a Pitcher for a Crowd:
- Fill a large pitcher with ice Add all the cherry syrup then pour in club soda Stir everything gently and garnish with cherries and lime Serve each glass over plenty of ice for best results
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One of my favorite moments making this was letting my niece stir the syrup and taste test with me She gets so excited choosing the cherries and squeezing the limes If you love cherry pie but want something lighter this drink really captures that same summery feeling
Storage Tips
Store extra cherry syrup in a well sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to one week It also freezes really well Simply pour the syrup into ice cube trays or small containers and freeze for up to one month Thaw overnight in the fridge or give it a quick stir if the texture changes slightly after thawing
Ingredient Substitutions
If you cannot find fresh sweet cherries you can use frozen ones Just thaw them first and drain off any excess liquid If you want to swap honey try using maple syrup or agave for a different but equally tasty sweetness For a sugar free version you can experiment with your favorite plant based sweetener though the flavor will be less rich
Serving Suggestions
Cherry limeade is perfect served over crushed ice for extra chill Try serving it at backyard barbecues with skewers of cherries and lime wheels for a fun twist For a grown up twist you can add a splash of vodka or white rum to each glass Garnishing with fresh mint leaves also adds a bright herbal note
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Cherry Limeade’s Story
Homemade cherry limeade first became popular at old-fashioned soda counters and drive-ins across America The combination of sweet cherries and tart lime is classic and always refreshing I love how this drink celebrates cherry season and evokes the best parts of summer afternoons
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How can I make cherry limeade less sweet?
Reduce the amount of honey or add extra club soda for a lighter, less sweet profile.
- → Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen sweet cherries work well. Thaw them first for easier blending and optimal flavor.
- → Is it possible to prepare the syrup ahead of time?
Absolutely! The cherry syrup can be refrigerated for up to a week, or frozen for up to a month.
- → What can I use as a garnish?
Fresh cherries and slices of lime make the perfect garnish for visual appeal and extra flavor.
- → Can club soda be substituted?
Try sparkling water or tonic water for different levels of fizz and subtle flavors.
- → Can I make this drink in advance for parties?
Prepare the cherry syrup beforehand and mix with club soda just before serving to keep it sparkling and fresh.