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Honey Sweetened Fresh Cherry Limeade Recipe


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4.3 from 24 reviews

  • Author: Ezabella
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 5 servings
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

This refreshing Honey Sweetened Fresh Cherry Limeade combines the natural sweetness of fresh cherries with the tangy zest of lime, sweetened gently with raw honey. Perfect for a summer day, this sparkling drink is easy to prepare from a homemade cherry syrup and club soda, making it light, flavorful, and delightful for any occasion.


Ingredients

Cherry Syrup

  • 1 cup (175g) pitted fresh sweet cherries
  • 1/2 cup (115g) water
  • 1/3 cup (90g) raw honey
  • 2 tsp lime zest
  • 1/3 cup (55g) fresh squeezed lime juice (about two limes)

For Serving

  • 30 oz (850g) club soda
  • Fresh cherries and lime slices for garnish
  • Ice cubes


Instructions

  1. Make the Cherry Syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine the pitted fresh cherries and water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Gently mash the cherries to release their juices, cover the pan with a lid slightly ajar to allow steam to escape, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the cherries are softened.
  2. Blend the Syrup: Transfer the softened cherries and their cooking liquid to a blender. Add the raw honey, lime zest, and fresh lime juice. Blend until smooth. If you notice any solids remaining, strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer to achieve a smooth syrup.
  3. Chill the Syrup: Place the cherry syrup in the refrigerator to chill before preparing the limeades. The syrup can be stored in a lidded container in the refrigerator for up to one week or frozen for up to one month.
  4. Prepare Individual Drinks: Fill an 8 oz (225g) glass with ice. Pour 2 oz (30g) of the cherry syrup into the glass, then top it off with club soda. Stir gently to combine. Garnish with fresh cherries and lime slices. Adjust the syrup amount to taste for a stronger cherry flavor.
  5. Prepare a Pitcher: Fill a pitcher with ice. Add the entire batch of cherry syrup to the pitcher, then top with 30 oz (850g) of club soda. Stir well and garnish with cherries and lime slices. Serve immediately over ice.
  6. Storage Tips: Store any leftover cherry limeade syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze it for longer storage. To use frozen syrup, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Notes

  • The cherry syrup can be strained to remove pulp for a smoother texture or left as is for a more rustic drink.
  • Adjust the amount of honey or lime juice to suit your taste preferences for sweetness and tartness.
  • Using fresh cherries is recommended for the best flavor; however, frozen cherries can be substituted if fresh are unavailable.
  • For a fizzy twist, serve immediately after adding club soda to retain carbonation.
  • The recipe can be easily doubled or halved depending on the number of servings needed.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Beverage
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American