Cherry Infused Sparkling Mocktail (Print Version)

Black cherries, mint, and lime combine in a vibrant, sparkling beverage. Naturally colorful, light, and perfect for warm days.

# Ingredients:

→ Fruit & Herbs

01 - 240 ml fresh black cherries, pitted (or thawed if frozen)
02 - 1 lime, cut into wedges
03 - 8 fresh mint leaves

→ Sweetener

04 - 15–30 ml maple syrup or agave syrup, to taste

→ Liquids

05 - 360 ml chilled sparkling water

→ Garnish (optional)

06 - Extra cherries
07 - Lime slices
08 - Mint sprigs
09 - Crushed ice

# Steps:

01 - In a sturdy glass or cocktail shaker, muddle the black cherries, lime wedges, and mint leaves until the cherries release their juices and the mixture is aromatic.
02 - Add maple syrup or agave syrup to the muddled mixture and stir thoroughly to combine.
03 - Fill two glasses generously with crushed ice.
04 - Strain or spoon the cherry-lime-mint mixture evenly into each glass, pressing to extract maximum liquid.
05 - Top each glass with chilled sparkling water and gently stir to blend.
06 - Garnish each mocktail with additional cherries, lime slices, and mint sprigs if desired. Serve immediately.

# Notes:

01 - Adjust sweetness to preference by varying the amount of syrup.
02 - For intensified cherry flavor, refrigerate the muddled mixture for 15 to 30 minutes before straining.
03 - Blackberries or raspberries can be substituted for the black cherries for a different fruit profile.
04 - Pairs exceptionally well with savory appetizers and light salads.