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If you love classic drive-in drinks, this Dirty Cherry Limeade is about to become a fast favorite. It has everything people crave in a soda shop treat — bright lime, sweet cherry flavor, fizzy lemon-lime soda, and a smooth splash of cream that ties it all together.
It’s refreshing, nostalgic, and incredibly easy to make at home in just minutes.
If you’re new to dirty sodas, be sure to read our complete guide explaining exactly what they are and why they’ve become so popular.
Around here, dirty sodas have quickly become a fun family tradition. Whether we’re making them for movie night, backyard hangs, or letting the kids build their own creations, they always feel a little extra special.
For an even smoother finish, try topping with our Homemade Whipped Cream!
Want more dirty soda inspiration? Browse our full collection here:
👉 Dirty Soda Recipes
And if you’re hosting or planning a party, don’t miss our customer favorite:
👉 Dirty Soda Bar Menu Printable (FREE!)
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tastes like a classic soda fountain drink
- Perfect balance of tart, sweet, and creamy
- Ready in under 5 minutes
- Easily customizable
- Beautiful color that photographs well for gatherings
This is one of those drinks that feels impressive — but secretly couldn’t be simpler.
Ingredients
- Ice
- Lemon-lime soda (Sprite or Starry)
- Cherry syrup
- Fresh lime juice
- Heavy cream
- Maraschino cherries
Equipment Needed
16 oz Glass – Allows the proper ratio for balanced flavor and presentation.
Jigger or Measuring Cup – Keeps the sweetness and citrus perfectly aligned.
Citrus Juicer – Makes fresh lime juice quick and effortless — highly recommended for the brightest flavor.
How to Make Dirty Cherry Limeade
The key to a great dirty soda is layering flavors so the drink stays vibrant instead of overly sweet.
Start with plenty of ice to keep the soda crisp and refreshing. Pour the lemon-lime soda first to create a bright, bubbly base.
Cherry syrup brings the signature sweetness, while fresh lime juice cuts through it with acidity — this is what keeps the drink tasting balanced rather than sugary.
When you slowly pour in the heavy cream, it softens the citrus and transforms the texture into something smooth and soda-shop worthy. Give it just a gentle stir to preserve that beautiful creamy swirl.
Finish with maraschino cherries for both flavor and that unmistakable cherry limeade look.
For another reader-favorite creamy soda, be sure to try our: 👉 Dirty Dr Pepper
This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
PrintDirty Cherry Limeade
This Dirty Cherry Limeade is the perfect balance of bright citrus, sweet cherry flavor, and smooth cream. Made with lemon-lime soda, cherry syrup, fresh lime juice, maraschino cherries, and heavy cream, this refreshing drink tastes like a classic drive-in favorite — but even better at home. Quick to make and incredibly craveable, it’s the perfect treat for warm afternoons, parties, or whenever you want a fun soda shop–style drink.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Total Time: 2 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- Ice (enough to fill a 16 oz glass)
- 12 oz lemon-lime soda (Sprite or Starry work great)
- 1 oz cherry syrup (classic cherry or maraschino syrup both work)
- ½ oz fresh lime juice
- 2–3 oz heavy cream
- 2–3 maraschino cherries
Instructions
- Fill a 16 oz glass with ice.
- Pour the lemon-lime soda over the ice.
- Add the cherry syrup and fresh lime juice. Stir gently to combine.
- Slowly pour in the heavy cream and give it a light stir to create that signature creamy swirl.
- Garnish with maraschino cherries and serve immediately.
Notes
Start with 2 oz heavy cream for a brighter blush color. Increase to 3 oz for a richer soda shop–style drink.
Fresh lime juice keeps the drink vibrant and prevents it from tasting overly sweet.
Use maraschino cherry syrup if you prefer a bolder cherry flavor.
Don’t skip the cherries — they enhance both presentation and flavor.
Tips for Success
- Use fresh lime juice whenever possible — bottled juice lacks the brightness this drink needs.
- Start with 2 oz heavy cream for the best blush color, then increase if you prefer it richer.
- Stir gently so the soda stays fizzy.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and carbonation.
Storage & Reheating
Store: This drink is best enjoyed immediately. Carbonation fades quickly once mixed.
Reheat: Not applicable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use maraschino cherry juice instead of syrup?
Yes! It adds great cherry flavor. You may want slightly less since it can be sweeter.
Does it matter which lemon-lime soda I use?
Not much — both Sprite and Starry work beautifully.
Can I make this dairy-free?
You can substitute coconut cream or a plant-based coffee creamer, though the flavor will change slightly.
Is this similar to a strawberry dirty soda?
If you enjoy creamy fruit sodas, you’ll definitely want to try our Pink Lady Strawberry Dirty Soda
Variations & Serving Ideas
- Add a lime wedge for extra citrus aroma
- Use diet soda if preferred
- Try black cherry syrup for a deeper flavor
- Turn it into a party drink by setting up a DIY soda bar
Hosting tip:
Pair this with our printable menu to create a simple but memorable drink station your guests will love.
👉Dirty Soda Bar Menu Printable
Final Thoughts
Dirty sodas are popular for a reason — they’re fun, customizable, and surprisingly easy to recreate at home.
This Dirty Cherry Limeade stands out because it balances sweetness with real citrus and finishes with a smooth, creamy texture that feels straight from a soda counter.
It’s the kind of drink that works just as well for a weekend treat as it does for parties or summer gatherings — and once you make it, don’t be surprised if it becomes a repeat request.
If you enjoy experimenting with flavors, be sure to explore the rest of our collection: Dirty Sodas
You might just discover your next favorite.
If you make it please consider leaving a review. We love to see your posts! Tag us on Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok! @ourgratefulkitchen
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