Tart Cherry Sparkling Lemonade Recipe

This tart cherry sparkling lemonade is my go-to drink because it’s not only incredibly refreshing but also feels like a little party in a glass with all those delightful bubbles. Plus, the combination of tart cherry and zesty lemon gives it a perfect balance that’s both satisfying and energizing, making it an instant favorite at any gathering.

I enjoy making cool drinks such as my Tart Cherry Sparkling Lemonade. Antioxidant-rich tart cherry juice and vitamin C-packed lemon juice make a delightful drink that is perfectly balanced with syrup, in my opinion.

Syrup does three things: (1) it adds sweetness, (2) it makes the drink balanced (which means it’s not too sweet, not too tart, and, in my estimation, just right), and (3) it gives the drink a somewhat luxuriant mouth feel. After you’ve made it, only you need to know exactly what goes into this seemingly uncomplicated refreshment.

Ingredients

Tart Cherry Juice:
High in antioxidants; gives a sharp, sour taste.

Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice:
Rich in vitamin C; contributes a vibrant, tangy flavor.

Simple Syrup:
Blend sweetness with tartness; modify to your liking.

Sparkling Water:
Carbonation is added; a fizzy and refreshing base is provided.

Mint Leaves:
Enriches with new fragrance; provides a frosty sensation.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 cup tart cherry juice
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/4 cup simple syrup (adjust to taste)
• 2 cups sparkling water
• Ice cubes
• Lemon slices, for garnish
• Fresh mint leaves, for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large pitcher, mix the freshly squeezed lemon juice with tart cherry juice.

2. Add the simple syrup to the pitcher and stir until well mixed; ensure that the syrup is fully dissolved.

3. Ice cubes should fill the glasses to keep the drink you are serving chilled and refreshing.

4. Pour the mixture of cherries and lemons into the glasses filled with ice, filling each about halfway.

5. Fill each glass to the top with shimmering water; then, give it a gentle stir to make the bubbles and juices mix.

6. Sample the sweetness and correct as needed, adding more simple syrup if you want a sweeter drink.

7. Cut a lemon into thin, even rounds, reserving these to use as a garnish. For unexpected flair, you can slide the garnish onto the rim of each glass.

8. Wash newly picked mint leaves in cold water, then place a few leaves in the bottom of each glass to release their delicious flavor and intoxicating aroma.

9. Gently stir the drink in the glass to distribute the flavors evenly.

10. Serve right away and have the reinvigorating and bubbly flavor of your Tart Cherry Sparkling Lemonade.

Equipment Needed

1. Large pitcher
2. Long-handled spoon or stirrer
3. Measuring cups
4. Knife
5. Cutting board
6. Glasses for serving
7. Ice cube tray (if making ice)
8. Citrus juicer (optional, for squeezing lemons)
9. Strainer (optional, for pulp removal)

FAQ

• Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemon juice?The best flavor comes from freshly squeezed lemon juice; however, you can substitute bottled lemon juice. Use it in the amount that seems right to you, keeping in mind that bottled lemon juice might be more concentrated.
• How do I make simple syrup?Combine equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved, then allow the mixture to cool. The mixture is now simple syrup, a sweetener that can be used in many recipes.
• Can I substitute the tart cherry juice with another type of juice?Certainly, you can substitute other juices, such as cranberry or raspberry, but these will affect the overall flavor profile of your lemonade.
• Can this recipe be made in advance?The lemonade can be mixed well in advance. When it’s time to serve, simply add sparkling water and ice to keep the drink fizzy and refreshing.
• Is there a non-alcoholic substitute for sparkling water?Club soda or seltzer water can also be used since they are carbonated and will give the same bubbly effect.
• How can I make this drink less sweet?You can adjust the amount of simple syrup in this recipe to your taste, or you can omit it altogether for a tarter lemonade.
• Can I turn this into a cocktail?Indeed, introducing a dash of vodka or gin can transform this into a revitalizing mixed drink. Change the amount of alcohol to suit your taste.

Substitutions and Variations

For tart cherry juice, use unsweetened cranberry juice for a comparably flavorful, tart drink.
Use freshly squeezed lime juice for a citrusy twist.
Use honey or agave nectar as a natural sweetener option instead of simple syrup.
If you are looking for an alternative to sparkling water, opt for club soda or flavored sparkling water. These options can offer you an added hint of flavor.
Substitute lime slices for lemon slices when using lime juice so that the appearance and flavor remain consistent.

Pro Tips

1. Chill Your Ingredients Prior to mixing, chill the tart cherry juice, lemon juice, and sparkling water in the refrigerator. This ensures that your drink stays cold and refreshing for longer without relying solely on ice, which could dilute the flavor as it melts.

2. Use a Cocktail Shaker For a perfectly blended drink, consider using a cocktail shaker. Shake the tart cherry juice, lemon juice, and simple syrup with ice before pouring into glasses. This helps mix the ingredients thoroughly and chills the mixture evenly.

3. Make Your Own Simple Syrup For the freshest taste, make your own simple syrup. Simply combine equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan, heat until the sugar dissolves, and cool before using. You can also infuse the syrup with a hint of mint or lemon zest for an extra layer of flavor.

4. Experiment with Sparkling Water Flavors To add additional depth to your beverage, try using flavored sparkling water, such as lemon, lime, or berry. This will subtly complement the existing flavors of your drink.

5. Garnish with Style Muddle some fresh mint at the bottom of each glass before adding ice to release its oils and scent. Also, consider adding a twist of lemon peel alongside the lemon slice garnish for extra visual appeal and aroma.