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Cherry Lemonade

Cherry Lemonade
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Cherry Lemonade is a refreshingly sweet and tangy beverage combining juicy cherries and zesty lemons for a perfect balance of flavors. This easy-to-make drink is ideal for cooling down on warm days, entertaining guests, or simply enjoying a nutritious and hydrating refreshment any time. With simple ingredients and versatile variations, Cherry Lemonade is a crowd-pleaser that brightens your day with every sip.

Ingredients

Scale

Fresh Ingredients

  • 2 cups fresh ripe cherries, pitted
  • 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4–6 lemons)
  • 4 cups cold water or sparkling water
  • Ice cubes as needed

Sweetener

  • 1 cup sugar (or to taste; can substitute with honey or agave syrup)
  • 1 cup water (for making simple syrup)

Optional Additions

  • Fresh mint, basil, or rosemary sprigs (for herbal infusion)
  • Vodka, rum, or gin (for alcoholic version, optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cherries: Wash and pit the fresh cherries. For extra flavor, crush or blend some of the cherries to release their juice while leaving some whole for texture and decoration.
  2. Squeeze fresh lemons: Roll lemons on the countertop to ease juicing, then cut them in half and extract the juice using a manual or electric juicer. Strain out seeds for a smooth base.
  3. Make the simple syrup: In a saucepan, combine equal parts sugar and water. Heat gently, stirring until sugar fully dissolves, ensuring smooth sweetness without grit.
  4. Mix ingredients: In a large pitcher, combine the cherry juice or crushed cherries, fresh lemon juice, and the prepared simple syrup. Stir well to blend flavors evenly.
  5. Add water and chill: Pour in cold still or sparkling water to dilute to your preferred taste. Add plenty of ice cubes to chill before serving.

Notes

  • Use ripe cherries to minimize additional sugar needed.
  • Add simple syrup gradually, tasting to balance sweetness and tartness.
  • Chill all ingredients beforehand to keep the drink cool longer and preserve ice.
  • Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve for a smooth texture, removing cherry skins and lemon pulp if desired.
  • Enhance with fresh herbs added just before serving for added aroma and flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cherry Lemonade, summer drink, refreshing beverage, non-alcoholic drink, homemade lemonade, cherry drink, citrus beverage

Find it online: https://juliaglam.com/cherry-lemonade/