We could sip on this Cherry Lemonade Recipe all summer long! This is one of our favorite lemon recipes and a refreshing combo of tangy, sweet, and icy cold. Just grab your favorite brand from the store (or make it at home), then add a homemade black cherry simple syrup to infuse it with a delicious flavor that kids and adults alike will love.
You only need 3 ingredients to make this and it will be done in under 10 minutes! Check out our collection of lemon recipes for even more flavor ideas.
We're on a mission to make more perfect summer drink recipes that are 1) easy as can be, 2) flavorful, and 3) make ahead friendly (because no one wants to be stuck in the ktichen while everyone else is at the pool 😉).
The solution? Simple syrups and fresh fruit! We've developed over 7 different recipes from classic to flavored so that you can make your personal favorite. I suggest trying fresh Strawberry Lemonade or Raspberry Lemonade recipe to beat the summer heat!
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Cherry lemonade ingredients
Since this recipe doesn't have many ingredients, try to choose quality options for the best flavor and pop of color. Quantities are in the recipe card below.
- Water: You'll need ¾ cup water; I suggest using filtered water.
- Granulated sugar: You'll need ¾ cup sugar to make a simple syrup, but not over sweeten the drink.
- Frozen black cherries: These can be found in the freezer section of most grocery stores. They may also be labeled as dark or sweet cherries (I don't suggest using sour cherries).
- Lemonade: When I want to make this quickly, I use Simply Brand from the store. But this recipe is equally delicious with homemade lemonade (using fresh lemon juice) or using lemonade concentrate made at home or from the store.
Helpful kitchen tools
Lemon Kitchen TowelsCuisinart Mesh Strainers
Glass Pitcher
Braun Immersion Blender
How to make cherry lemonade
Follow these step by step instructions to make this cooling drink in just a few minutes!
Start by cooking the water, sugar, and frozen cherries in a small saucepan over medium heat. You want it to simmer for about 2 minutes, but don't boil it. Stir it occasionally until the sugar is completely dissolved.
Remove the simple syrup from the heat and allow it to steep for at least 5 minutes. Then use an immersion blender to blend everything together (careful, it's hot). It will be foamy when you finish.
Strain the simple syrup through a large wire mesh sieve, using a spoon to press it through if needed. Discard any chunky bits.
Pour the everything into a large pitcher and stir well. Chill in the fridge for several hours, or serve immediately over lots of ice.
Hint: A regular blender would also work just as well in this recipe.
Variations and substitutions
- Substitute with limeade to make cherry limeade instead.
- Add a splash of sprite to make it sparkling.
- Add a splash of vodka to make a fun summer cocktail.
- Add a tiny bit of fresh lemon slices or zest for a little extra tang.
- Add fresh mint for extra cooling on a hot day!
Storage instructions
Fresh lemonade will last in the fridge in a sealed pitcher for 5-7 days. The simple syrup will last on its own in the fridge in an airtight container for about 2 weeks.
How to make lemonade from concentrate
If you decide to use a standard can of frozen concentrate, typically you will need to add 52 oz of water and it will make 64 oz total. Personally, I prefer to use a little less water (about 48 oz) to make it slightly more tart.
FAQ
If you want to make the cherry syrup far in advance, you can freeze it for 1-3 months. I highly recommend using Souper Cubes for easy freezing!
I find that frozen cherries are more flavorful because they are frozen at peak ripeness in prime cherry season. However, you can use fresh cherries if you prefer, specifically a dark variety such as Bing cherries or sweetheart cherries. It will take more work to remove the stems and pits, but you can use this cherry pitter to make it faster.
According to the USDA Food Product Dating, food is safe after it expires as long as it is stored properly until signs of spoilage appear. Signs of spoilage include changing color, becoming cloudy, changing smell, or tasting distinctly more sour than normal.
Tips and tricks
- For deeper flavor, steep the syrup a little longer.
- Use one hand to tip the pot slightly while the other hand holds the immersion blender to make it easier to combine everything.
- Use a quality lemonade for the best flavor.
More summer recipes
Looking for other recipes for a hot summer's day? Try these:
Recipe
Cherry Lemonade Recipe (3 Ingredients)
Ingredients
- ¾ cup water
- ¾ cup sugar
- ¾ cup frozen black cherries (or fresh, with pits removed)
- 52 oz lemonade
Instructions
- Heat the water, sugar, and cherries in a small pot on the stove over medium heat. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is dissolved and cherries start to pop. If it starts boiling, turn it down immediately.¾ cup water, ¾ cup frozen black cherries, ¾ cup sugar
- Remove from the heat and allow it to steep for 5 minutes.
- Using an immersion blender, carefully zoom the cherry mixture in the pot until thoroughly blended. (If you don't have an immersion blender, you can use a regular blender).
- Pour the lemonade into a pitcher. Add the strained cherry syrup and stir to combine. Refrigerate until cold, then serve with ice.52 oz lemonade
Notes
- For deeper flavor, steep the syrup a little longer.
- Use one hand to tip the pot slightly while the other hand holds the immersion blender to make it easier to combine everything.
- Use a quality lemonade for the best flavor.
Add Your Own Notes
Nutrition
All nutrition information is provided by a third party and is an estimate only. Use your own nutritional calculator for more specific measurements.
Misty says
So yummy and truly easy to make!