Cherry Lime Spritz Recipe

Cocktail

1. 1

   Prepare Simple Syrup (if needed)

   If you don't have pre-made simple syrup, combine equal parts granulated sugar and water (e.g., 1/4 cup sugar + 1/4 cup water) in a small saucepan. Heat gently, stirring, until sugar dissolves. Cool to room temperature before using. (This step can be skipped if using store-bought syrup.)

2. 2

   Fill a large pitcher or mixing jug with the ice cubes.

3. 3

   Pour the cherry juice and fresh lime juice over the ice.

4. 4

   Add the simple syrup to the pitcher. Start with 2 tablespoons; taste after mixing and add up to 1 additional tablespoon if you prefer it sweeter.

5. 5

   Stir the cherry–lime mixture briskly for about 10–15 seconds to chill and combine the juices and syrup.

6. 6

   Slowly pour the chilled Sprite into the pitcher right before serving to preserve carbonation. Gently stir once or twice to incorporate—do not over-stir.

7. 7

   Taste and adjust: if it needs more brightness, add 1–2 teaspoons fresh lime juice; if it needs more sweetness, add 1 teaspoon simple syrup and stir gently.

8. 8

   To serve, fill individual highball or Collins glasses halfway with ice (or use fresh ice). Pour the spritz mixture over the ice, leaving about 1/2 inch at the top.

9. 9

   Garnish each glass with a lime wheel or wedge and 1–2 maraschino cherries. Optionally, thread a cherry onto a cocktail pick and rest it on the rim.

10. 10

    Serve immediately while fizzy.