MSG Free Cherry Lime Soda

Total time30 min

Prep time10 min

Cook time5 min

4.5

(14)

There is something deeply satisfying about a homemade soda that tastes this vibrant and fresh. A quick simmer of sweet cherries with honey and a splash of water creates a rich, ruby syrup that puts any store-bought version to shame — and you know exactly what went into it. Bright lime juice cuts through the sweetness beautifully, and chilled sparkling water brings the whole thing to life with a satisfying fizz. Pouring the water slowly down the side of the glass is a small but smart move that keeps every sip perfectly bubbly. Commercial flavored sodas and syrups are notorious for sneaking in additives and flavor enhancers, so making your own from whole fruit and honey is a genuinely cleaner approach. It comes together in under half an hour and looks stunning in a tall glass with a few fresh cherries on top — the kind of drink that makes an ordinary afternoon feel like a little occasion.

About Fig

Fig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.

Learn more →

Ingredients

2 servings

For the cherry syrup

1 cup fresh or frozen sweet cherries, pitted
¼ cup water
2 tbsp honey

For serving

3 tbsp fresh lime juice (from about 2 limes)
1 ½ cups sparkling water, chilled
1 cup ice cubes
2 lime wedges (optional)
4 fresh cherries, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1
Combine the pitted cherries, water, and honey in a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally and pressing the cherries gently with a spoon, until the cherries have softened and released their juice and the liquid is a deep ruby color, about 5 minutes.
2
Pour the cherry mixture through a fine-mesh strainer set over a small bowl or measuring cup, pressing the solids firmly to extract as much syrup as possible. Discard the solids. Let the cherry syrup cool to room temperature, about 15 minutes.

Want the full recipe?

Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!