Sparkling Cherry Lemonade
Sparkling cherry lemonade made by blending fresh cherries, lemon juice, and sugar into a ruby syrup, then topping it with chilled sparkling water.
Equipment
- Blender
- Large pitcher or jar
- Fine sieve (optional)
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz fresh cherries pitted, about 1 1/2 cups
- ¾ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- ⅔ cup granulated sugar
- 4 cup sparkling water chilled, added just before serving
Instructions
Cooking
- Make the syrup. Blend the cherries, lemon juice, and sugar in a blender until completely smooth.
- Adjust. Taste and add a little lemon juice or sugar as needed, then blend again.
- Chill. Pour the syrup into a jar and refrigerate until cold, about 1 hour.
- Assemble. Pour the chilled syrup over ice in glasses and top with sparkling water.
- Garnish. Add a cherry or lemon slice and serve at once.
Notes
Substitutions: Thawed frozen cherries work when fresh are out of season.
Tips: Add the sparkling water to each glass just before serving to keep the fizz. Strain the syrup for a smoother pour.
Storage: Refrigerate leftover syrup in a covered jar for up to 3 days.