01 -
In a small saucepan, bring the sugar and water to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves. Stir in the lime zest and remove from heat.
02 -
Cover the mixture and let it steep for 1 hour. After steeping, strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve and discard the zest. (Store any extra syrup in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.).
03 -
Add 1/2 cup of the prepared lime syrup, lime juice, cherry juice, half-and-half (if using), and ice to a blender.
04 -
Blend the mixture until the ice is crushed and the texture is slushy.
05 -
Divide the frozen limeade among four 8-ounce glasses and serve immediately.