Refreshing Whipped Frozen Cherry Limeade

This Whipped Frozen Cherry Limeade is a tangy and refreshing summer drink, with a creamy twist from the addition of half-and-half. The perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors makes this drink a hit on a hot day.

Ingredients

• Sugar: ½ cup, used to create a sweet simple syrup.
• Water: ½ cup, combined with sugar to make the simple syrup.
• Lime Zest: Zest of 1 large lime or 2 small limes, adds a bright, citrusy flavor.
• Lime Juice: ¼ cup, freshly squeezed from 2 limes, provides a tangy base.
• Tart Cherry Juice: ¼ cup, for a pop of tartness and vibrant color.
• Half-and-Half (Optional): 2 tablespoons, adds a creamy texture to the drink.
• Ice Cubes: 2 ½ cups, to make the limeade slushy and cold.

Instructions

Step 1:

In a small saucepan, bring the sugar and water to a simmer over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves, about 3-5 minutes.

Step 2:

Stir in the lime zest, then remove the saucepan from heat. Cover and let the mixture steep for 1 hour to infuse the lime flavor.

Step 3:

After steeping, strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve and discard the zest. You'll have extra lime simple syrup; refrigerate any leftovers for up to 1 week.

Step 4:

Add 1/2 cup of the lime simple syrup, lime juice, cherry juice, half-and-half (if using), and ice to a blender.

Step 5:

Blend the mixture on high until the ice is crushed and the texture becomes slushy and smooth.

Step 6:

Divide the Whipped Frozen Cherry Limeade among four 8-ounce glasses and serve immediately. Optionally, garnish with a slice of lime or a cherry on top for a decorative touch.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serve the Whipped Frozen Cherry Limeade immediately after blending to enjoy its refreshing slushy texture. Garnish each glass with a lime slice or a cherry for added presentation. This drink is best enjoyed fresh, but any extra lime syrup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Use it for future limeades or other refreshing drinks.

Helpful Notes

If you prefer a creamier texture, add an extra tablespoon of half-and-half to the blender before mixing. For a lighter version, you can omit the half-and-half and enjoy the tart cherry and lime flavors on their own.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

Chef Ina Garten suggests adding a splash of club soda after blending for a bit of fizz in your frozen limeade. Chef Bobby Flay recommends using fresh tart cherries when they’re in season for an even more vibrant cherry flavor.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This drink is a perfect balance of tangy lime and tart cherry, making it a refreshing option for warm weather. The creamy texture from the half-and-half adds a unique twist, making it indulgent yet light. It’s quick to make and easy to customize, so you can adjust the sweetness, tartness, or creaminess to your liking.

Variations

For a non-dairy version, use coconut cream instead of half-and-half for a tropical twist. Add a splash of your favorite spirit, like vodka or rum, to turn this limeade into a refreshing summer cocktail. Try using other fruit juices like raspberry or pomegranate for a new flavor profile.