Copycat Sonic Cherry Limeade Recipe

What is Sonic's Cherry Limeade?

Sonic's Cherry Limeade is a blend of zesty lime and sweet cherry flavors that are infused with carbonated lemon lime soda (such as Sprite or 7 Up) for fizz and pep. This drink is a favorite for its vibrant, refreshing taste that perfectly balances the cherry flavor with a tart lime twist.

What Makes Sonic's Cherry Limeade So Special?

Using cherry syrup flavors creates a profoundly sweet drink that beautifully complements the tartness of fresh lime juice and lime slices. Then there is the fizzy kick to consider, as the lemon lime soda adds the right amount of sparkle.

What is Sonic's Cherry Limeade Made Of?

Sonic's cherry limeade mixes the crispness of lemon-lime soda with the rich cherry juice from a maraschino cherry jar and concentrated frozen limeade.

How to Craft Your Sonic Copycat Cherry Limeade
How to Make Sonic's Cherry Limeade – Overview

To whip up this easy recipe, start by combining lemon lime soda, cherry syrup, and concentrated limeade in a large pitcher. Stir well to blend the vibrant flavors. Pour this delicious cherry limeade recipe over ice in a tall glass, and garnish with lime slices and stemless maraschino cherries. The combination of these ingredients not only tastes great but also creates a visually eye catching beverage.

For this drink recipe, you’ll need the full-bodied cherry flavor of a high-quality cherry syrup, preferably one sourced from a jar of maraschino cherries. I've also found that cherry syrup used for snow cones works very well, if not even better, than the syrup from the marichino jar.

How to Turn It Into a Slushy

For a slushy version, just add the prepared cherry limeade to a blender with some crushed ice and blend until smooth. It's perfect for sipping all summer long!

Recipe Variations & Substitutions

• Diet Version: Swap in Diet Sprite and sugar-free cherry syrup for a diet cherry limeade that stays tasty but with fewer calories.
• With a Kick: Add a splash of vodka to create an adult version of the Sonic cherry limeade that’s perfect for gatherings.
• Instead of Frozen Concentrated Limeade: You can add 1 cup of lime juice to the recipe in place of the frozen concentrate.
• Instead of Cherry Syrup: You can try using strawberry syrup or crushed fresh strawberries to create a strawberry limeade.

Tips for Making the Perfect Homemade Sonic Copycat Cherry Limeade

• Syrup Mix: Adjust the cherry syrup to your liking; some prefer it sweeter, while others may enjoy a more subdued cherry flavor.
• Stir, Don’t Shake: When mixing your cherry limeade, stir gently to keep the soda drinks' fizziness intact.
• Garnish for Flair: Add a maraschino cherry, slices of lime or a sprig of mint to each glass for that extra special touch.

Can I Make Cherry Limeade Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! Mix all ingredients except the soda beforehand and keep chilled. Add the soda just before serving to maintain the fizz, ensuring your cherry limeade stays refreshing.

How to Store Cherry Limeaide

Though best enjoyed fresh, you can store the cherry-lime mix (all ingredients combined except for the soda) in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply add fresh soda when you're ready to serve to rejuvenate its sparkling charm.

What to Serve with Sonic's Cherry Limeade

This cherry limeade pairs wonderfully with light summer salads or grilled delights. It's also the perfect drink to accompany casual snacks like pretzels or popcorn during a relaxing day.