Do you like fruit-forward cocktails that taste as good as they look? If so, you’ll be obsessed with my Cherry Limeade Cocktail. This drink is sweet, vibrant, and bursting with fresh cherry and lime flavors. It may look fancy, but it comes together in under five minutes.
Serve this cherry limeade alongside BBQ classics like pulled pork sliders or smoked wings. It’s light, refreshing, and perfect for sipping all summer long. Whether you're hosting a backyard party or relaxing after a long day, this cocktail is guaranteed to hit the spot.
Cherry Limeade Cocktail | Heath Riles BBQ
This cocktail is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. It’s got the nostalgic flavor of cherry limeade with an adult twist. Add a splash of vodka and a fizzy topper, and you’ve got a drink that feels festive but not too heavy. It’s a great choice for game day, cookouts, or happy hour on the patio.
The Ingredients
This Cherry Limeade Cocktail uses just a few ingredients, most of which you probably already have on hand. If not, toss these in your cart and get ready to shake up something special:
Cherry Apple Habanero Glaze
Don’t worry—this glaze isn’t spicy! It’s all about sweet cherry and apple flavors with a smooth finish. Start with ½ ounce for a light touch or go up to a full ounce if you want a bolder cherry flavor.
Tart Cherry Juice (2 oz)
This adds a deep ruby color and a tart bite that balances the sweetness of the glaze. Look for 100% tart cherry juice for the best flavor.
Vodka (1½ oz)
I used Tito’s, but any clean, neutral vodka will work great. It adds a little kick without overpowering the drink.
Juice of 1 Lime
Fresh lime juice is essential here. It brings brightness and zippy acidity that ties all the flavors together.
Club Soda (to top)
A bubbly finish gives this cocktail a light, effervescent touch. Add just enough to top off your glass.
Optional garnishes
Lime wheels, Fresh cherries, A sugar rim for extra sparkle
The Process for Making My Cherry Limeade Cocktail
This drink is incredibly simple to make, and you don’t need any fancy tools—just a glass and a good stir (or shake!). Here's a quick rundown of how to build it:
Step 1: Add the glaze.
Pour ½ to 1 ounce of Cherry Apple Habanero Glaze into the bottom of your glass. It creates a rich, fruity base.
Step 2: Mix in the cherry juice and vodka.
Add 2 ounces of tart cherry juice and 1½ ounces of vodka to the glass.
Step 3: Squeeze in the lime.
Juice one whole lime and add it to the mix. Stir everything together or give it a light shake using your favorite cocktail shaker. I love using my YETI Cocktail Shaker for drinks like this—it keeps everything cold and leak-free.
Step 4: Ice and top.
Fill your glass with ice, then top with club soda for that crisp, fizzy finish.
Step 5: Garnish and serve.
Add a lime wheel or fresh cherry to make it look extra festive. Sip and enjoy!
The Results
This Cherry Limeade Cocktail is bright, juicy, and oh-so-refreshing. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and tart, with a clean finish that keeps you coming back for more. The glaze adds depth and body, while the lime and soda lighten things up. It’s a drink you’ll want to make on repeat.
Serving Suggestions for Cherry Limeade Cocktail
Pair this drink with just about anything, but it really shines when served alongside bold, vibrant flavors. Here are a few of my favorite recipes to enjoy with this Cherry Limeade Cocktail:
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Shrimp Tacos on the Traeger Flatrock: These tacos are fresh and full of flavor—an ideal match for the bright cherry-lime profile of the cocktail.
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Grilled Corn with Citrus Lime Butter: The lime butter plays beautifully with the lime juice in the drink for a citrus-forward meal.
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Cherry Apple Habanero Baby Back Ribs: Featuring the same glaze used in the cocktail, this pairing creates a cohesive flavor experience that ties everything together.
You can also serve this cocktail as part of a drink flight alongside other fruity creations like my Mississippi Sunrise or Jalapeño Margarita.
Storing Leftover Cherry Limeade Mix
Making this cocktail ahead of time? You can store the base (everything except the club soda) in the fridge for up to three days. I recommend keeping it in a sealed container like the YETI Rambler Beverage Pitcher. It’s perfect for batching cocktails—it keeps everything fresh, cold, and ready to pour.
When you're ready to serve, just give it a stir, pour over ice, and top with club soda for fresh fizz every time.
Equipment and Tools
YETI Cocktail Shaker, Glass tumbler, Citrus juicer, Bar spoon or stirrer