This creamy cherry limeade combines the bright flavor of fresh lime with the bold sweetness of cherries. It's refreshing, nostalgic, and perfectly balanced between tart and sweet, making it ideal for sipping on a hot day. If you prefer, you can replace the water with Sprite to replicate that Sonic cherry limeade taste at home.
@thechaotictable Cherry limeade just like you get at the state fairs or sonic! #statefair #statefairdrinks #sonicdrinks #cherrylimeade #limeade #smallcontentcreator #recipe #drinkrecipes #summerdrink #foodtiktok ♬ original sound - The Chaotic Table
This cherry limeade recipe is part of a series of fair drinks I'm working on. If you’re looking for other fun recipes to make alongside this one, consider trying out the classic State Fair Lemonade for a traditional drink option. Alternatively, you can give the Creamy State Fair Lemonade a twist for something different, or you might want to try the classic Limeade recipe.
Equipment
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Ingredients
- Lemons
- Sugar
- Sweet Cream
- Ice
- Water
Directions
Add the lime wedges and sugar to a 32-ounce container. Muddle until the limes release their juice and the sugar begins to dissolve.
Pour in the water and cherry syrup, then fill the container almost to the top with ice.
Secure the lid and shake until everything is well mixed and chilled.
Use a paring knife to cut an X in the top of the lid, then slide in a straw and enjoy.
How do you serve this? What do I serve with this recipe?
- Chili Cheese Dogs
- Ice Cream
- Corn dogs
- Hamburgers
- Fresh Fruit
FAQs (Because Life’s Too Busy for Guesswork)
Do I need to wash my limes before making cherry limeade?
Yes, give them a quick rinse before slicing. Limes, like all produce, can carry residue or germs from handling and shipping. A quick wash under warm water does the trick.
Nope, not necessary. Since you're muddling the limes with sugar in this version, you'll naturally release the juices and oils as you go. No pre-rolling needed.
Try adding extra lime wedges or a splash of bottled lime juice to boost the tang. Cutting back slightly on the sugar or cherry syrup can also help if it's tasting too sweet for your liking.
Definitely! Fresh cherries, lime slices, or even a handful of frozen berries can add texture and visual appeal. If you’re going for more cherry flavor, a cherry syrup or juice concentrate is a great way to amp it up.
Use a fine-mesh strainer when pouring, or simply pick out any visible seeds after muddling. If you're slicing the limes ahead of time, you can also remove the seeds manually before adding them in.
What are substitutions that I can make?
- Limes—You can use lemons instead of limes for a twist, like in a Dirty Sonic limeade.
- Water – To replicate the Sonic Limeade, you can use Sprite instead of water.
Storage Tips for Creamy Cherry Limeade
This limeade should be stored in a sealed, airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoyed within 2 to 3 days. It's best to store it without the ice to keep it from becoming diluted. Give it a good stir or shake before serving. For the best flavor, remove any lime slices before chilling; leaving them in for too long can make the drink overly tart or slightly bitter.
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Cherry Limeade
Equipment
- Muddler
- Deli containers
Ingredients
- 2 limes cut into wedges
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 cups water
- .75 oz cherry syrup
- 1 to 2 cups ice
Instructions
- Add the lime wedges and sugar to a 32-ounce container. Muddle until the limes release their juice and the sugar begins to dissolve.
- Pour in the water and cherry syrup, then fill the container almost to the top with ice.
- Secure the lid and shake until everything is well mixed and chilled.
- Use a paring knife to cut an X in the top of the lid, then slide in a straw and enjoy.
Notes
You can use any container that holds at least 32 ounces. A mason jar, shaker bottle, or large cup with a lid all work just fine. Wash your limes first.
Even though you're mostly using the juice and muddling the rinds, it’s still smart to rinse off any wax or residue from handling. A quick rinse with warm water or a short soak in vinegar water will do the trick. Tweak the tartness to fit your taste.
Want more zing? Add a few extra lime wedges or a splash of lime juice. Prefer it sweeter? A little more cherry syrup or sugar will do the job. Make it yours. No need to roll your limes.
Since you’re muddling the lime wedges directly with sugar, they’ll release plenty of juice and oils without the countertop roll. Thinking of adding more fruit?
Go for it. Fresh cherries, strawberries, or even a handful of blueberries are great choices. You can muddle them in, blend them for a smoother finish, or add a splash of fruit syrup for a sweeter, more intense flavor.
This was so good, nice and sweet! Thanks for the great recipe.
Cherry limemade is my husband’s favorite! Can’t wait to have him try this!
I hope he loves it as much as I do.
YESSSS! I was wondering if you were going to do a limeade. My favorite! Tried it with the sprite as suggested and it was perfect.
That sparkling addition definitely levels up this limeade! I’m glad you enjoyed it.
This drink is amazing, we love it! The cherry lime combination tastes so good! It’s a huge hit at my house, thank you for the great recipe!