Description
A refreshing and easy-to-make cherry lemonade recipe combining fresh cherries and zesty lemon juice into a perfectly sweetened chilled beverage, ideal for hot days.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups thawed whole, pitted cherries (with juice)
- 1 cup cherry juice (from pureed and strained cherries)
- 9 cups purified water, divided
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1–1½ cups fresh lemon juice (adjust to taste)
Garnish
- Fresh mint leaves
- Fresh cherries
- Lemon slices
Instructions
- Puree Cherries: Add the thawed cherries, including any juice from the bag, to a blender. Blend until completely pureed to create a smooth cherry base.
- Strain Cherry Puree: Double strain the blended cherries through a fine mesh sieve or a juicing bag to remove all pulp. You should end up with about 1 cup of smooth cherry juice.
- Dissolve Sugar: Pour the cherry juice into a large pitcher. Heat 2 cups of purified water until warm and add it to the pitcher along with the granulated sugar. Stir thoroughly until the sugar is fully dissolved to create a sweet cherry syrup.
- Add Lemon and Water: Stir in fresh lemon juice, then slowly add the remaining cold water one cup at a time, tasting as you go, to reach your preferred balance of sweetness and tartness.
- Chill and Serve: Chill the lemonade for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavors. Stir well before serving since the mixture can settle. Serve over ice and garnish with fresh mint leaves, cherries, and lemon slices as desired.
Notes
- Adjust lemon juice to taste for desired tartness.
- Use fresh cherries when in season for best flavor.
- Double straining ensures a smooth, pulp-free lemonade.
- Serve chilled for maximum refreshment.
- This recipe makes about 8 to 8.8 servings, perfect for gatherings.
