5 Easy Cherry Coke Popsicles You’ll Love
If you’re craving a cool, fizzy treat that bursts with a nostalgic cherry cola flavor, you’re in for a treat with these Cherry Coke Popsicles. They combine the perfect blend of refreshing bubbles, sweet cherry notes, and icy delight that make summer afternoons so much better. Whether you’re hosting a backyard party or just want a fun, easy dessert to beat the heat, these popsicles are simple to whip up with just a few ingredients and deliver big flavor in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: You only need a few basic pantry items that come together effortlessly for a tasty result.
- Refreshing and Fizzy: The carbonation from the Coke adds a playful fizz that’s hard to resist in popsicle form.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike adore this fun twist on a classic soda flavor.
- Customizable: Easy to adapt with fresh fruit, alcohol, or even different soda flavors for variety.
- Perfect for Hot Days: These popsicles cool you down and satisfy sweet cravings instantly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of making Cherry Coke Popsicles lies in how simple, yet thoughtfully chosen, the ingredients are. Each one plays a key role—the soda for fizz, cherries for natural sweetness and color, and a few extras to elevate the texture and flavor harmony.
- Cherry Cola: The star of the show, using classic Coke combined with cherry syrup or cherry-flavored soda for authentic flavor.
- Fresh or Maraschino Cherries: Adds real fruit bites and deepens the cherry taste.
- Lemon Juice: A splash brightens up the richness and balances the sweetness.
- Sugar or Honey (optional): Adjust sweetness levels to your liking, especially if your soda is diet or less sweet.
- Water or Soda Water: To help control the consistency and enhance the icy texture.
Variations for Cherry Coke Popsicles
One of the best parts about this recipe is how easy it is to mix things up. Whether you want something boozy, vegan-friendly, or packed with extra fruit, it’s simple to customize your popsicles while keeping their iconic Cherry Coke essence.
- Boozy Twist: Add a splash of cherry vodka or rum for adult-only versions perfect for summer parties.
- Diet-Friendly: Use diet Cherry Coke or sugar-free soda and skip added sugars for a guilt-free option.
- Fruit Boost: Throw in diced strawberries, raspberries, or fresh cherries for extra texture and natural sweetness.
- Layered Pops: Create colorful layers by alternating Cherry Coke with lemon-lime soda or fruit juice.
- Herbal Infusion: Add a few mint leaves or a hint of ginger to infuse subtle herbal notes.
How to Make Cherry Coke Popsicles
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Gather fresh cherries, Cherry Coke soda, lemon juice, and any optional sweeteners or mix-ins. Pit and chop the cherries if using fresh, so they’re ready to distribute evenly.
Step 2: Mix the Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the Cherry Coke soda with lemon juice and sugar or honey if using. Stir gently to avoid losing all the bubbles; you want to keep the fizziness for that signature soda feel.
Step 3: Add Cherries and Pour
Drop a few cherry pieces into each popsicle mold before filling them up with the soda mixture. Distribute evenly to balance fruit and fizz in every popsicle.
Step 4: Freeze
Place the molds in the freezer and freeze completely, usually 6 to 8 hours or overnight, until fully solid.
Step 5: Unmold and Enjoy
To release the popsicles smoothly, run the molds under warm water for a few seconds. Then, pull out your fizzy, fruity treat and dive in immediately for the best texture and freshness.
Pro Tips for Making Cherry Coke Popsicles
- Keep the bubbles: Gently mix ingredients to retain carbonation for that beloved fizzy sensation.
- Use high-quality cherries: Fresh or premium maraschino cherries enhance both taste and look.
- Don’t overfill: Leave a little space at the top of molds to allow for expansion as the liquid freezes.
- Freeze overnight: For the best solid texture, patience is key—fast freezing may leave them slushy.
- Add popsicle sticks early: Insert sticks about 1-2 hours after freezing starts to prevent them from tilting or falling over.
How to Serve Cherry Coke Popsicles
Garnishes
Enhance presentation by adding a fresh cherry on top, a sprig of mint, or a slice of lemon on the serving plate. These small touches bring color and freshness to your popsicle experience.
Side Dishes
Pair your Cherry Coke Popsicles with light snacks like salted popcorn, mixed nuts, or a refreshing fruit salad. These combos complement the sweetness and keep your summer snacking balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these popsicles in chilled glasses with a drizzle of cherry syrup at the bottom or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a nostalgic float-inspired dessert. You can also arrange them on a festive platter lined with crushed ice for an elegant touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover popsicles, store them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn and odor absorption. They’re best enjoyed within one week for optimal taste.
Freezing
Freeze your popsicles on a flat surface to maintain shape, and cover them with plastic wrap once frozen to keep them fresh and avoid ice crystals forming on the surface.
Reheating
Since these are frozen treats, reheating isn’t recommended. Instead, let them thaw just enough to soften slightly for easier eating without losing that icy chill.
FAQs
Can I use regular Coke instead of Cherry Coke?
Yes, you can use regular Coke and add cherry syrup or grenadine to mimic the cherry flavor, adjusting the sweetness to taste.
Will the soda lose its fizz when freezing?
Soda does lose some carbonation when frozen, but stirring gently and freezing quickly helps retain a slight fizzy texture in the popsicles.
How long do Cherry Coke Popsicles last in the freezer?
For best flavor and texture, enjoy them within one week, though they can last up to a month if stored properly.
Can I make these popsicles without added sugar?
Definitely! Using sweetened soda usually provides enough sweetness, but you can omit additional sugar to reduce calories.
Are Cherry Coke Popsicles kid-friendly?
Absolutely, they are a fun and safe treat for kids as long as you skip any adult-only variation like added alcohol.
Final Thoughts
Cherry Coke Popsicles are the perfect fusion of fizzy soda and fruity sweetness packed into a refreshing icy treat anyone can easily make at home. With just a handful of everyday ingredients, you can cool off, indulge your taste buds, and create moments of summer joy with every bite. So grab your molds, mix up a batch, and treat yourself to this bubbly, cherry-flavored delight that’s sure to become a seasonal favorite!
