I absolutely love cherries so each year when the season starts I just can't help myself. I practically live off of the them for the short time they're available each summer. So, when my hubby did some grocery shopping (we're equal opportunity like that) and brought back what amounted to just over 7 pounds of beautiful dark sweet cherries I was thrilled. Then I quickly realized I would need to do more than just eat them by the bowl full to ensure they didn't go to waste. I could have made these brownies, these mini loaves, this crisp or this parfait, but we wanted something more refreshing. Something to beat the summer heat. This Cherry Lime Spritzer did the trick and with no alcohol it's kid friendly too.
My two older kiddos love this spritzer because it's bubbly and a bit sweet like soda, which we almost never let them have. The ingredients in soda are less than desirable, but by making a simple syrup and mixing it with seltzer water you end up with a healthier, refreshing drink that's just as satisfying. If you're looking to cut soda out, this drink makes a great substitute.
The process to make the syrup couldn't be simpler. You can pit the cherries, if you plan to use the pulp for something like a smoothie or just leave the cherries as is. This is also a great way to use up those softer cherries that are less appealing to eat straight up.
Next just simmer the cherries with coconut sugar and water until the fruit breaks down and the liquid thickens a bit. Strain out the fruit and seeds, add the lime juice, allow the syrup to cool and soon you'll be sipping on a refreshing glass of cherry lime deliciousness.
This Cherry Lime Spritzer is super fun and a great way to cool down on a hot day!
If you try it, let me know how it turns out! Leave a comment below or snap a pic and tag it @weelittlevegans on Instagram so I’ll be sure to see it!
Recipe
Cherry Lime Spritzer - No Refined Sugar
Ingredients
- 2 cups dark sweet cherries
- ¼ -1 /2 cup coconut sugar Depending on desired sweetness.
- ¼ cup water
- 1 tsp fresh squeezed lime juice
- 24 oz seltzer water, plain or lime flavored
Instructions
- Wash and pit the cherries if you plan to use the leftover pulp for another use or simply leave the cherries whole.
- In a medium sauce pan combine cherries, coconut sugar, and water.
- Bring to a boil and reduce heat to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer for 15-20 minutes until cherries have cooked down and sauce has thickened a bit.
- Place a mesh strainer over a bowl and pour cherry mixture into the strainer.
- Press the cherries with the back of a wooden spoon to remove as much of the syrup as possible. Discard cherry pulp or use for something else. I like to add it to smoothies.
- Add lime juice to syrup and allow to cool completely.
- Spoon about 2-3 tablespoon into a glass filled with ice. Add 6oz seltzer water to glass a stir to incorporate. Garnish with slice of lime, if desired.
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Did you make this recipe? Let me know!