8 Sweet Cherry Lemonade Recipes You Need to Try

When the sun is shining bright and summer days seem to last forever, there’s nothing better than enjoying a refreshing glass of cherry lemonade. The combination of tangy lemons and sweet cherries is simply irresistible. From the timeless appeal of Cherry Lemonade to the unique touch of Cherry Basil Lemonade, these recipes are sure to brighten up your day. Ready to refresh your summer drink menu and maybe find a new favorite? Let’s get started with these delightful cherry lemonade recipes!

Classic Cherry Lemonade

Nothing beats the invigorating taste of a Classic Cherry Lemonade on a warm day. This recipe combines the sweet and tart flavors of cherries and lemons, creating a perfect blend that’s both stimulating and satisfying.

Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply looking for a revitalizing drink to enjoy, this homemade cherry lemonade is sure to be a hit.

This Classic Cherry Lemonade is easy to make and requires just a few simple ingredients. With fresh cherries and lemons as the stars of the show, you can rest assured that this drink will pack a fruity punch.

The natural sweetness of ripe cherries pairs beautifully with the zingy citrus notes of lemons, making this a tasty yet balanced beverage that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients for 4-6 servings:

• 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted
• 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 4 cups cold water
• Lemon slices for garnish
• Cherry slices for garnish
• Ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Prepare the cherries: Begin by washing the cherries thoroughly under cold water. Once clean, use a cherry pitter or a small knife to remove the pits. Place the pitted cherries in a blender or food processor and blend until smooth.
2. Strain the cherry puree: Pour the blended cherries through a fine mesh sieve into a large pitcher to remove any pulp or skin, ensuring you have a smooth cherry juice base.
3. Mix the lemon juice: Squeeze fresh lemons until you have one cup of lemon juice. Add this to the pitcher with the strained cherry juice.
4. Sweeten the mix: Add one cup of granulated sugar to the pitcher and stir until the sugar is completely dissolved. This may take a few minutes, but it’s essential for the perfect sweetness balance.
5. Combine with water: Pour in four cups of cold water into the pitcher and stir the mixture well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
6. Chill the lemonade: Place the pitcher in the refrigerator for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld together and the drink to chill.
7. Serve: When ready to serve, fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the chilled cherry lemonade over the ice. Garnish with slices of lemon and cherry for an added touch.

Extra Tips:

For a more intense cherry flavor, consider adding a splash of cherry juice or cherry concentrate to the mix.

If you prefer your lemonade less sweet, adjust the sugar to your taste by reducing the amount slightly. Remember, the sweetness can also be balanced with additional water if needed.

To make this drink even more special, try using sparkling water instead of regular water for a fizzy twist. Enjoy your Classic Cherry Lemonade with a sprig of mint for a stimulating aroma that complements the fruity flavors.

Sparkling Cherry Lemonade

This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it ideal for small gatherings or family occasions. Fresh cherries and lemon juice are the stars of this drink, complemented by a hint of sweetness and the lively fizz of sparkling water.

By using fresh ingredients, you guarantee that each sip is bursting with flavor and natural goodness. With a few simple steps, you can whip up this delightful concoction that’s both visually stunning and invigoratingly delicious.

Let’s plunge into the ingredients and instructions to create this sparkling treat.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted
• 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4-5 lemons)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 4 cups cold sparkling water
• Ice cubes
• Slices of lemon and cherries for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cherry Mixture: Start by pitting the fresh cherries. Place the pitted cherries in a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can strain the cherry puree through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any pulp or skins.
2. Make the Lemonade Base: In a large pitcher, combine the freshly squeezed lemon juice and granulated sugar. Stir the mixture until the sugar is fully dissolved. This creates the lemonade base that will be combined with the cherry puree.
3. Mix the Cherry and Lemonade Base: Add the cherry puree to the lemonade base in the pitcher. Stir well to confirm the cherry and lemon flavors are thoroughly combined.
4. Add Sparkling Water: Just before serving, gently pour the cold sparkling water into the pitcher. Stir the mixture gently to preserve the bubbles and guarantee even distribution of flavors.
5. Serve and Garnish: Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the sparkling cherry lemonade over the ice. Garnish each glass with slices of lemon and a few whole cherries for an added touch of elegance and flavor.

Extra Tips:

For a variation in sweetness, you can adjust the amount of sugar based on your personal preference. If you like a less sweet lemonade, start with half the sugar and add more gradually to taste.

Additionally, for a more intense cherry flavor, consider adding a splash of cherry juice or using frozen cherries when fresh ones aren’t available.

Always serve the lemonade immediately after adding the sparkling water to retain its fizz. For a fun twist, experiment with adding a few fresh mint leaves or a splash of vodka for an adult version of this delightful beverage.

Cherry Basil Lemonade

Cherry Basil Lemonade is a delightful twist on the traditional lemonade, infusing the invigorating taste of cherries with the aromatic essence of basil. This unique combination offers a revitalizing beverage that’s perfect for a hot summer day or any occasion that calls for a special drink.

The tartness of the cherries harmonizes beautifully with the citrusy zing of lemons, while the fresh basil adds a subtle complexity that elevates the drink to a gourmet level.

This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it ideal for small gatherings or family meals. It’s simple to prepare and can be easily scaled if you need to serve a larger crowd. The result is a vibrant, ruby-red lemonade with a fascinating aroma and an invigorating taste that will surely become a favorite among your friends and family.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted
• 1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 4-6 lemons)
• 1 cup sugar
• 4 cups water
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, plus extra for garnish
• Ice cubes
• Lemon slices, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cherries: Begin by washing and pitting the cherries. Place them in a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. Strain the cherry puree through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl to remove any pulp, leaving you with a smooth cherry juice.
2. Make the Lemonade Base: In a large pitcher, combine the freshly squeezed lemon juice and sugar. Stir until the sugar has completely dissolved. This will create a sweet and tangy base for your lemonade.
3. Combine with Cherry Juice: Add the strained cherry juice to the lemon-sugar mixture. Stir well to guarantee the flavors are evenly distributed.
4. Infuse with Basil: Gently tear the fresh basil leaves to release their aroma and add them to the pitcher. Pour in 4 cups of water and stir the mixture. Allow it to sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
5. Serve: Before serving, give the lemonade a good stir. Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the cherry basil lemonade over the ice. Garnish each glass with a slice of lemon and a sprig of fresh basil for an appealing presentation.

Extra Tips:

For an added burst of flavor, consider muddling some basil leaves with a bit of sugar before adding them to the lemonade. This will release more of the basil’s essential oils.

If you prefer a less sweet drink, reduce the amount of sugar or experiment with natural sweeteners like honey or agave syrup. For a sparkling version, replace half of the water with carbonated water.

Cherry Limeade Twist

Cherry Limeade Twist is a delightful and revitalizing variation of the classic cherry lemonade, perfect for a summer gathering or a simple family treat. This recipe combines the tangy flavor of limes with the sweetness of cherries, creating a unique and invigorating beverage. The addition of fresh mint leaves elevates the flavor profile, offering a revitalizing twist that will cool you down on hot days.

This recipe serves 4-6 people and can easily be doubled for larger gatherings. The use of fresh ingredients guarantees a vibrant and natural taste, free from artificial flavors. The Cherry Limeade Twist isn’t only delicious but also visually appealing, with its bright red hue and fresh garnish. It’s a simple yet impressive drink that can be enjoyed by adults and children alike.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted
• 1 cup freshly squeezed lime juice (about 4-6 limes)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 4 cups cold water
• 1 cup sparkling water
• Ice cubes
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish
• Lime slices for garnish
• Maraschino cherries for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cherries: Begin by washing and pitting the fresh cherries. Once pitted, place them in a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. Strain the cherry puree through a fine mesh sieve to remove any pulp, leaving you with a smooth cherry juice.
2. Mix the Base: In a large pitcher, combine the strained cherry juice with the freshly squeezed lime juice and granulated sugar. Stir the mixture until the sugar has completely dissolved. This forms the base of your Cherry Limeade Twist.
3. Add Water: Pour in the cold water to the cherry-lime mixture and stir well. This will help dilute the concentrate and balance the flavors.
4. Add Fizz: Just before serving, add the sparkling water to the pitcher. Stir gently to mix without losing too much of the fizz.
5. Serve: Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the Cherry Limeade Twist over the ice. Garnish each glass with fresh mint leaves, a slice of lime, and a maraschino cherry for a festive touch.

Extra Tips:

For the best flavor, use fresh, ripe cherries and limes. If cherries are out of season, you can use frozen cherries, just make sure they’re thawed before blending.

Adjust the level of sweetness to your taste by adding more or less sugar. If you prefer a stronger lime flavor, add a bit more lime juice.

For an adult version, consider adding a splash of vodka or rum for a spirited twist.

Remember that garnishes not only add aesthetic appeal but also enhance the flavor of the drink, so don’t skip them!

Cherry Mint Lemonade

Cherry Mint Lemonade is a revitalizing twist on the classic summer beverage, combining the sweet and tart flavors of cherries and lemons with the cool, invigorating taste of fresh mint. This delightful drink is perfect for quenching your thirst on a hot day, serving as a unique offering at a summer gathering, or simply enjoying a moment of relaxation.

The vivid red hue from the cherries combined with the vibrant green of mint leaves also makes this lemonade visually appealing, adding a burst of color to your table.

The recipe for Cherry Mint Lemonade is simple to follow and requires only a handful of ingredients. The key is to use fresh, high-quality produce to guarantee the best flavor. Fresh cherries and lemons provide a naturally sweet and tangy base, while the mint leaves add a revitalizing aromatic touch. This recipe makes enough to serve 4-6 people, perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted
• 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4-6 lemons)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 4 cups cold water
• 1 cup fresh mint leaves
• Ice cubes
• Lemon slices, for garnish
• Fresh mint sprigs, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cherry Mixture: Begin by pitting the fresh cherries and placing them in a blender. Add half a cup of water and blend until you have a smooth puree. Strain the puree through a fine mesh sieve into a large pitcher to remove the solids, guaranteeing you get a clear cherry juice.
2. Make the Lemonade Base: In the pitcher with the cherry juice, add the freshly squeezed lemon juice and granulated sugar. Stir well until the sugar has completely dissolved. If needed, you can gently heat a portion of the mixture on the stove to help dissolve the sugar, then let it cool before combining it back with the rest.
3. Infuse with Mint: Add the fresh mint leaves to the cherry-lemon mixture. Using a wooden spoon or a muddler, gently bruise the mint leaves to release their oils, enhancing the infusion of mint flavor into the lemonade.
4. Combine and Chill: Pour in the remaining 3.5 cups of cold water and stir to combine. Adjust the sweetness to your liking by adding more sugar if desired. Refrigerate the mixture for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld and the lemonade to chill.
5. Serve: When ready to serve, fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the Cherry Mint Lemonade over the ice. Garnish each glass with a slice of lemon and a sprig of fresh mint for an extra touch of elegance.

Extra Tips: For an added twist, consider adding a splash of sparkling water or club soda just before serving to give your Cherry Mint Lemonade a fizzy finish. You can also experiment with the sweetness by substituting the granulated sugar with honey or agave syrup for a different flavor profile. If you’re planning to serve this at an event, prepare it a day in advance to allow the flavors to fully develop.

Frozen Cherry Lemonade Slush

Frozen Cherry Lemonade Slush is a revitalizing and delightful treat perfect for hot summer days. This icy beverage combines the sweet and tart flavors of cherries and lemons, creating a vibrant and invigorating drink that’s both satisfying and cooling.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just lounging in the sun, this slush will be a crowd-pleaser.

The key to this recipe is using fresh or frozen cherries, which provide a rich cherry flavor and a beautiful deep red color. Paired with freshly squeezed lemon juice, the result is a perfectly balanced slush that’s both sweet and tangy.

This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it ideal for small gatherings or family treats.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
• 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4-5 lemons)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 cups ice cubes
• 1 cup water
• Lemon slices and cherries for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cherries: If using fresh cherries, rinse them thoroughly under cold water. Remove the stems and pit the cherries. If using frozen cherries, verify they’re thawed slightly before use.
2. Make the Lemonade Base: In a blender, combine the pitted cherries, freshly squeezed lemon juice, granulated sugar, and water. Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth and the sugar is completely dissolved.
3. Create the Slush: Add the ice cubes to the blender with the lemonade base. Blend on high speed until the mixture becomes slushy and the ice is finely crushed. You may need to stop occasionally to stir and verify even blending.
4. Adjust Consistency: If the slush is too thick, add a little more water and blend again. If it’s too thin, add a few more ice cubes and blend until the desired consistency is reached.
5. Serve: Pour the cherry lemonade slush into glasses. Garnish with lemon slices and whole cherries if desired. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Extra Tips:

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a hint of mint by blending a few fresh mint leaves into the mixture.

You can also experiment with the sweetness by adjusting the amount of sugar or trying a natural sweetener like honey or agave syrup. If you prefer a more adult version, a splash of vodka or rum can be added for a delightful cocktail.

Make sure to enjoy the slush immediately after preparation, as it can melt quickly in warm temperatures.

Cherry Ginger Lemonade

Cherry Ginger Lemonade is a rejuvenating and invigorating twist on the classic lemonade, perfect for hot summer days or any occasion that calls for a cool, revitalizing drink. This recipe combines the tartness of lemons, the sweetness of cherries, and the warm, spicy kick of ginger to create a perfectly balanced beverage. The natural flavors blend seamlessly to create a unique and delicious thirst-quencher that’s sure to impress family and friends.

This lemonade isn’t only delightful to taste but also visually appealing with its vibrant red hue. It’s easy to prepare, requiring just a few simple ingredients that are readily available. The recipe yields a serving size of 4-6 people, making it ideal for small gatherings or family meals. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or hosting a summer barbecue, Cherry Ginger Lemonade will be a hit.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4-5 lemons)
• 1/4 cup honey or sugar
• 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
• 4 cups cold water
• Ice cubes
• Lemon slices and fresh cherries for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cherries and Ginger: Start by washing the cherries thoroughly. Pit them and set aside. Peel the fresh ginger and grate it finely. This will help release the maximum flavor into the lemonade.
2. Make the Cherry Ginger Base: In a blender, combine the pitted cherries, grated ginger, and honey or sugar. Blend until smooth to create a cherry-ginger puree. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a pitcher to remove any solids, ensuring a smooth texture.
3. Mix the Lemonade: To the pitcher containing the cherry-ginger mixture, add the freshly squeezed lemon juice. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
4. Dilute with Water: Pour in the cold water into the pitcher and stir until everything is well mixed. Adjust the sweetness according to your preference by adding more honey or sugar if necessary.
5. Chill and Serve: Add ice cubes to the lemonade to chill it. For extra flavor, you can also refrigerate the lemonade for at least an hour before serving. Serve in glasses over additional ice cubes, and garnish with lemon slices and fresh cherries if desired.

Extra Tips:

When preparing Cherry Ginger Lemonade, feel free to adjust the sweetness to your liking. If you prefer a sweeter drink, you can add more honey or sugar. If you like a more intense ginger flavor, increase the amount of grated ginger.

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a splash of sparkling water just before serving to give the lemonade a fizzy twist. Additionally, using ripe, fresh cherries will greatly enhance the flavor and color of the lemonade. Enjoy experimenting with this recipe to find the perfect balance for your palate!

Cherry Lemonade Fizz

Cherry Lemonade Fizz is a rejuvenating and effervescent beverage perfect for hot summer days or casual gatherings. This delightful drink combines the tangy taste of fresh lemons with the sweet, rich flavor of cherries, topped off with a fizzy sparkle that makes it truly irresistible.

Whether you’re lounging by the pool or hosting a backyard barbecue, this beverage is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, offering a unique twist on the classic lemonade. The vibrant color and invigorating taste of Cherry Lemonade Fizz not only make it visually appealing but also incredibly satisfying to sip.

This drink is both easy to prepare and versatile, making it a fantastic addition to your drink repertoire. Follow this recipe to create a batch that serves 4-6 people, ensuring everyone gets to enjoy a taste of this fizzy delight.

Ingredients (for 4-6 servings):

• 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted
• 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4-6 lemons)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups cold water
• 2 cups sparkling water or club soda
• Ice cubes
• Mint leaves, for garnish (optional)
• Lemon slices, for garnish (optional)
• Cherries, for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cherry Puree: In a blender, combine the pitted cherries and 1/4 cup of cold water. Blend until smooth, then strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl to remove any solids. Discard the solids and set the cherry puree aside.
2. Make the Lemonade Base: In a large pitcher, combine the freshly squeezed lemon juice and granulated sugar. Stir well until the sugar is completely dissolved. Add the remaining 1 3/4 cups of cold water and mix thoroughly.
3. Combine Cherry and Lemon Mixtures: Pour the cherry puree into the lemonade base and stir until well mixed. The mixture should have a vibrant pink hue.
4. Add Fizz: Just before serving, slowly pour in the sparkling water or club soda into the cherry lemonade mixture to add fizz. Stir gently to combine.
5. Serve: Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the Cherry Lemonade Fizz over the ice. Garnish with mint leaves, lemon slices, and cherries, if desired, for an extra touch of elegance.

Extra Tips:

To enhance the flavor of your Cherry Lemonade Fizz, consider using a mix of sweet and sour cherries. If you prefer a sweeter drink, you can adjust the sugar to your taste or use a sugar substitute like honey or agave syrup.

For a more intense cherry flavor, add a splash of cherry juice or a few drops of cherry extract. Remember that the sparkling water should be added just before serving to maintain the fizz. If you’re preparing this drink in advance, keep the lemonade and cherry mixture refrigerated and add the sparkling water when ready to serve.

Enjoy this rejuvenating drink and feel free to experiment with different garnish options!