Can I make cherry limeade ahead of time?

It is not recommended to assemble the entire pitcher ahead of time, as the carbonation from the lemon-lime soda will quickly go flat. However, you can prep the fresh lime juice, sugar, and cherry syrup mixture in advance and store it in the fridge. Simply add the ice and soda right before serving!

What kind of sugar is best for homemade limeade?

Superfine sugar (also known as caster sugar) is best because it dissolves effortlessly into the cold lime juice. If you only have regular granulated sugar on hand, you can quickly pulse it in a food processor or blender for a few seconds to create your own superfine sugar.

Can I add alcohol to this cherry limeade recipe?

Yes! While this is a fantastic kid-friendly mocktail, it can easily be converted into an adult beverage. A splash of plain vodka, cherry-flavored vodka, or sweet coconut rum pairs beautifully with the tart lime and sweet cherry flavors.

How can I make this drink less sweet?

If you prefer a more tart, zesty limeade, you have a few options. You can reduce the amount of added superfine sugar, use less of the reserved maraschino cherry syrup, or swap out the sweetened lemon-lime soda for an unsweetened plain or lime-flavored sparkling water.

The Best Homemade Cherry Limeade (Easy 5-Minute Recipe!)

The Best Homemade Cherry Limeade

Print Recipe

Author: Maya
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Yield: 10 (8-ounce) glasses
Category: Drinks / Cocktails

Ingredients

8-10 medium limes (to yield 1 cup fresh lime juice), chilled
1-2 extra limes, thinly sliced for garnish
1 (10-ounce) jar maraschino cherries (do not drain, reserve all syrup)
½ cup superfine sugar (caster sugar)
1 (2-liter) bottle lemon-lime soda (like Sprite or 7Up), chilled
4-5 cups crushed ice

Instructions

Prep the Pitcher: Fill a large glass pitcher about halfway full with crushed ice. Slide the thin slices of fresh lime down the inside walls of the pitcher for a pretty presentation.
Dissolve the Sugar: In a medium bowl or large liquid measuring cup, combine the 1 cup of freshly squeezed lime juice and the ½ cup of superfine sugar. Whisk or stir vigorously until the sugar begins to dissolve.
Combine Flavors: Pour the sweetened lime juice mixture directly over the crushed ice in your pitcher.
Add Cherries: Add the entire jar of maraschino cherries into the pitcher, including all of the reserved cherry syrup.
Add Soda: Pour the chilled lemon-lime soda into the pitcher, filling it to the top.
Stir and Serve: Give the cherry limeade a gentle stir with a long wooden spoon to combine the syrup and the soda. Pour into individual glasses filled with extra crushed ice and serve immediately!

Find it online: https://www.endrecipes.com/homemade-cherry-limeade/