Description
Cool off with this refreshing Cherry Lemonade recipe! It’s the perfect balance of sweet cherries and zesty lemonade, ideal for a hot day or any special occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (from about 4–5 lemons)
- 3–4 cups cold water (or to taste)
- Ice cubes
- Lemon slices and cherries for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Make the Cherry Syrup: In a saucepan, combine the cherries, sugar, and 1 cup of water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves and the cherries soften (about 5-7 minutes).
- Strain the Syrup: Remove from heat and let it cool slightly. Strain the cherry mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, discarding the solids.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large pitcher, combine the cherry syrup, lemon juice, and 3 cups of cold water. Stir well.
- Adjust to Taste: Taste and add more water for a less sweet or less tart lemonade, or more sugar if needed.
- Chill: Refrigerate the lemonade for at least 30 minutes to chill.
- Serve: Pour the cherry lemonade over ice. Garnish with lemon slices and fresh cherries, if desired.
Notes
- For a stronger cherry flavor, you can muddle some of the cherries before making the syrup.
- If using frozen cherries, there’s no need to thaw them beforehand.
- Adjust the sweetness to your preference. Start with less sugar and add more as needed.
- You can make this ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: PT15M
- Cook Time: PT10M
- Category: Drinks
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g