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Cherry Lemonade

Cherry Lemonade

Beat the heat with this refreshing Cherry Lemonade recipe—a perfectly sweet and tart drink made from bright fresh lemons and juicy cherries. Easy to prepare and customizable, it’s the ideal thirst-quencher for sunny summer days, whether you’re relaxing by the pool or hosting a gathering. Enjoy a vibrant, natural, and invigorating sip that balances sweetness with tartness and offers optional fizz and herbal twists.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cherry Lemonade

  • 1 cup fresh lemon juice (from about 46 fresh lemons)
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
  • 1/2 cup simple syrup (adjust to taste)
  • 23 cups cold water or sparkling water
  • Ice cubes, as needed
  • Optional: Fresh mint leaves for garnish or muddling

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Lemon Juice: Roll fresh lemons on the countertop to loosen the juices. Slice and squeeze them until you collect about one cup of fresh lemon juice, then strain out the seeds for a smooth, tangy base.
  2. Purée the Cherries: Remove pits from fresh cherries or thaw frozen ones. Blend cherries until smooth. Optionally strain through a fine mesh sieve to remove pulp for a clearer lemonade, or leave it in for a rustic texture.
  3. Prepare Simple Syrup (if not ready-made): Combine equal parts water and sugar in a saucepan, gently heat until sugar dissolves completely, then allow it to cool. This syrup will balance the tartness smoothly without graininess.
  4. Combine and Dilute: In a large pitcher, mix the fresh lemon juice, cherry purée, and simple syrup. Add 2 to 3 cups of cold water or sparkling water according to preference, stirring gently to blend all flavors.
  5. Chill and Serve: Fill glasses with ice cubes, pour the cherry lemonade over, garnish optionally with lemon wheels, whole cherries, or mint sprigs, and enjoy immediately for the freshest taste.

Notes

  • Use ripe cherries for maximum natural sweetness and flavor.
  • Add simple syrup gradually, tasting to avoid over-sweetening.
  • Strain the cherry purée if a smoother drink is preferred.
  • Keep lemons, cherries, and water chilled before mixing for a more refreshing result.
  • Add ice cubes just before serving to prevent diluting the flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: cherry lemonade, summer drinks, refreshing beverages, homemade lemonade, cherry drink, tart and sweet beverage