Cherry Lime Rickey – A Classic Refreshing Cocktail Recipe

Cherry Lime Rickey  – Few drinks capture the timeless charm of soda fountain classics and summer refreshers quite like the Cherry Lime Rickey. Originating in the late 19th century, the Rickey was first made with bourbon and lime juice, later evolving into a gin-based drink. Over time, creative twists have made the Rickey a versatile cocktail, with the Cherry Lime Rickey standing out as one of the most popular variations.

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This drink is a perfect combination of tart lime, sweet cherry syrup, and fizzy soda water. It is light, refreshing, and customizable—you can enjoy it as a non-alcoholic mocktail or enhance it with gin, vodka, or rum for a spirited version.

Recipe Overview

• Cuisine: American Classic

• Course: Drinks / Cocktails

• Servings: 2 glasses

• Calories: ~145 kcal per serving

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Active Time: 5 minutes

• Resting Time: 0 minutes

• Total Time: 5 minutes

Equipment Needed

• Highball glasses or tall Collins glasses

• Cocktail shaker (optional, if adding alcohol)

• Jigger (for measuring)

• Long bar spoon

• Ice cubes

• Citrus juicer

Ingredients

• 2 oz (60 ml) fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)

• 3 oz (90 ml) cherry syrup (or grenadine as a substitute)

• 2 oz (60 ml) gin, vodka, or rum (optional for alcoholic version)

• Club soda or sparkling water, to top up

• Ice cubes

• Garnish: lime wedges and maraschino cherries

Nutrition

 Instructions

1. Prepare the Glasses

   • Fill two highball glasses with ice cubes. This not only chills the drink but also keeps the carbonation intact longer.

2. Add the Lime Juice and Syrup

   • Pour 1 oz of fresh lime juice and 1.5 oz of cherry syrup into each glass. Stir gently to combine.

3. Add Alcohol (Optional)

   • If making an alcoholic version, add 1 oz of gin, vodka, or rum to each glass. Shake briefly with ice in a cocktail shaker for better integration, then pour back over the ice.

4. Top with Soda

   • Slowly pour in club soda or sparkling water until the glass is almost full. Stir gently with a long spoon to mix without losing carbonation.

5. Garnish and Serve

   • Garnish with a lime wedge and a maraschino cherry. Serve immediately with a straw or stir stick.

Tips for the Perfect Cherry Lime Rickey

1. Homemade Cherry Syrup – For a fresher flavor, make your own syrup by simmering cherries with sugar and water, then straining.

2. Balance Sweetness – Adjust the amount of syrup based on how sweet or tart you like your drink.

3. Choose the Right Spirit – Gin adds herbal complexity, vodka keeps it clean, and rum brings tropical notes.

4. Keep It Fizzy – Add soda water last and stir gently to preserve the bubbles.

5. Make It a Mocktail – Skip the alcohol and just use extra soda water for a family-friendly refreshment.

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Flavor Profile

The Cherry Lime Rickey has a lively and refreshing flavor profile:

• Bright Tanginess – thanks to fresh lime juice.

• Sweet Depth – from cherry syrup or grenadine.

• Effervescence – from soda water, keeping it light and crisp.

• Optional Spirit Complexity – depending on your alcohol choice.

The balance of sweet and sour, combined with the sparkling finish, makes it a drink that appeals to both casual sippers and cocktail enthusiasts.

Serve Cherry Lime Rickey

• Summer BBQs and Picnics – Refreshing and easy to batch for a crowd.

• Family Gatherings – Serve as a mocktail for kids and an adult version with spirits.

• Brunch Cocktails – A lighter, less boozy option compared to heavier drinks.

• Holiday Parties – Its red color fits perfectly into festive themes.

• Everyday Refreshment – Quick enough to make any time you crave a fizzy, fruity pick-me-up.

Conclusion

The Cherry Lime Rickey is more than just a cocktail—it’s a nod to timeless soda fountain charm blended with modern mixology. Whether you’re sipping it poolside, serving it at a backyard barbecue, or simply enjoying a quiet evening drink, this beverage delivers a perfect balance of sweet cherries, tangy lime, and sparkling fizz

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