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Cherry Lemonade

Cherry Lemonade - Easy Meal Recipe

You might think of lemonade as a simple drink made from lemon juice, water, and sugar. But today, I’m about to elevate that drink into something truly spectacular! Welcome to my cherry lemonade creation, a drink that makes hot summer days tolerable and picnics unforgettable.
Imagine this: It’s a balmy afternoon, you’re lounging in your backyard, and suddenly, a cold glass of cherry lemonade appears. The sweet-tart flavor dances on your tongue, and life just feels better. This isn’t just lemonade; this is a delicious escape from the mundane.
As a food enthusiast and a registered dietitian, I’m all about using fresh ingredients. Cherry lemonade offers a unique twist that not only refreshes but also tantalizes the taste buds. So, let’s explore why this recipe is a must-try!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: American
Calories: 130
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cherry Lemonade Syrup:
  • 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice 8 oz, 227g
  • 1 tablespoon finely grated lemon zest
  • 1 lb fresh or frozen cherries, pitted about 3 cups, 454g
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 cup granulated sugar 7 oz, 198g
For the Cherry Lemonade:
  • Ice cubes to serve
  • 5to6 cups still or sparkling water, adjusted to taste

Method
 

  1. Now, let’s make some cherry lemonade!
Step 1: Prepare the Cherries
  1. Place the pitted cherries in a saucepan over medium heat. Mash them gently with a fork or potato masher. An excellent trick here is to cook them for a few minutes until they begin to break down. This releases their natural juices.
Step 2: Make the Syrup
  1. Add granulated sugar to the cherries and mix well. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely. Then incorporate the freshly squeezed lemon juice and the lemon zest. Let this mixture simmer for about 10 minutes. You want the cherries to soften and transform into a beautiful syrup.
Step 3: Strain the Mixture
  1. After simmering, remove the pan from heat and let it cool slightly. Pour the mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a bowl, pressing down to extract as much juice as possible. Discard the solids; you’ll have a lovely cherry lemonade syrup.
Step 4: Add Vanilla
  1. Stir in the pure vanilla extract to the cherry syrup. This step adds a lovely depth to the flavor, making your lemonade irresistible.
Step 5: Mix with Water
  1. In a large pitcher, combine the cherry syrup with still or sparkling water. The amount of water really depends on how strong you want the flavor. Taste and adjust according to your preferences.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
  1. Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the cherry lemonade over the top. Serve immediately for the best experience. Garnish with fresh cherries or lemon slices if you want to make it visually appealing!

Notes

  • Fresh vs. Frozen Cherries: If fresh cherries are out of season, frozen ones work just as well. Just be sure to thaw them before use!
  • Sweetness Control: Adjust the sugar amount to suit your taste. You can go lower for a less sweet flavor.
  • Infuse Flavor: Get creative! Add mint leaves while cooking the syrup for a refreshing twist.
  • Serving Size: This recipe yields about 6-8 servings, perfect for summer gatherings.
  • Storage: Store extra cherry syrup in the fridge for up to a week for quick lemonade anytime!