Sour Cherry Lemonade

By Martha Stewart  Updated on January 22, 2019

Prep Time: 15 mins

Total Time: 1 hr 15 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

For the syrup

• 1 pound fresh sour (tart) cherries (or drained thawed frozen), pitted (3 cups)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

For the lemonade

• Ice cubes
• 4 cups club soda
• 1 ½ cups fresh lemon juice (from 8 lemons)
• ½ cup superfine sugar
• Garnish: fresh sour (tart) cherries

Directions

• Make the syrup: Simmer cherries, granulated sugar, water, and lemon juice in a medium saucepan over medium heat until cherries are broken down and juicy and liquid is syrupy, about 30 minutes.
• Strain cherries and syrup through a fine sieve; discard solids. Let cool completely.
• Make the lemonade: Fill a large pitcher with ice. Add club soda, lemon juice, super fine sugar, and 1/2 cup cherry syrup; stir to combine. Garnish with fresh cherries. Divide lemonade among glasses.

Cook’s Notes

Serving Idea: Spike glasses of lemonade with vodka for a refreshing cocktail.

Lemonade can be refrigerated for up to 1 week.

Originally appeared: Martha Stewart Living, July 2011