Refreshing Cherry Vanilla Cola You Can Make at Home

Few things beat the nostalgia of sipping a chilled Cherry Vanilla Cola on a warm afternoon. This DIY version is fresher, fruitier, and infinitely more flavorful than anything you can buy in a bottle or can. By using real cherries and pure vanilla, this homemade soda syrup delivers a sweet, rich flavor that elevates every sip.

Whether you’re hosting a summer party, craving something bubbly and sweet, or simply want to use up a surplus of cherries, this recipe is a must-try. It’s also an ideal base for a variety of fresh cherry drink ideas, from mocktails to floats to frozen slushies.

Looking for more refreshing drink recipes? Try our magical Pumpkin Juice or the fun Color-Changing Lemonade Slushies for kids and adults alike.

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Why You’ll Love This Fresh Cherry Drink Idea

If you love classic soda-shop flavors but want a fresher take, this cherry vanilla cola syrup will be your new favorite. Unlike artificial syrups or bottled drinks, this version uses real cherries and natural ingredients to create something bold, sweet, and refreshingly tart with a hint of warm vanilla.

Here’s why this cherry drink idea stands out:

• Naturally flavored with no additives
• Customizable sweetness and flavor intensity
• Endless uses beyond just soda (think mocktails, popsicles, slushies)
• Perfect for parties, family BBQs, or movie nights
• Kid-friendly and fun to make

It’s also a fun activity to do with kids, especially if you’re looking for party drink ideas with cherries or ways to use up frozen or fresh summer cherries.

Ingredients for Homemade Cherry Vanilla Cola Syrup

This syrup is based on the recipe from The Kitchn and uses just a few pantry staples:

• 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (or vanilla bean paste for a richer flavor)

Optional:

• A splash of lemon juice for brightness
• Crushed ice or soda water for serving
• Fresh mint or cherries for garnish

Want to pair this with a festive treat? Our 3-Ingredient Cream Cheese Mints or Birthday Cake Pops make for perfect companions.

Essential Tools for Making Soda Syrup from Scratch

You don’t need a lot of fancy equipment to make this homemade syrup, but a few kitchen tools will help:

• Medium saucepan
• Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Glass bottle or jar for storing syrup
• Soda water or sparkling water for mixing

Having a soda maker or sparkling water on hand is helpful but not necessary—you can also buy unflavored club soda from any grocery store.

How to Make Cherry Vanilla Cola Syrup – Step-by-Step

This cherry vanilla cola syrup is quick to prepare and keeps well for future use. Here’s how to make it:

Step 1: Simmer the cherries

In a medium saucepan, combine the cherries, water, and sugar. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to help break down the cherries and dissolve the sugar.

Step 2: Reduce and extract flavor

Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about 20 minutes. The cherries should be soft and the liquid thickened slightly.

Step 3: Strain

Remove from heat and strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a bowl. Press the cherries gently to extract all the juices, but avoid pushing too hard if you want a clear syrup.

Step 4: Add vanilla

Stir in the vanilla extract or paste while the mixture is still warm. Let it cool completely.

Step 5: Store

Transfer the syrup to a clean glass jar or bottle and refrigerate. It will keep for about 2 weeks.

To serve:

Mix 2–4 tablespoons of syrup with 8 ounces of sparkling water or soda water. Adjust to taste. Serve over ice and enjoy!

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Tips for the Perfect Cherry Drink Syrup Every Time

For best results, follow these tips:

• Use ripe cherries: Dark, sweet cherries will yield the best flavor. Sour cherries can be used but may need more sugar.
• Frozen cherries: No fresh cherries? No problem. Frozen cherries work just as well.
• Don’t skip the straining: A smooth syrup makes for a better drinking experience.
• Use real vanilla: It adds depth and richness that imitation extract can’t match.
• Taste as you go: Want it more tart? Add lemon juice. Sweeter? Add a touch more sugar during simmering.

Want to make this drink extra special? Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a cherry vanilla float!

Creative Cherry Drink Ideas Using This Syrup

The syrup isn’t just for soda! Here are a few cherry drink ideas that you can make with your homemade syrup:

• Cherry Vanilla Lemonade: Mix with lemonade and top with fresh mint.
• Frozen Cherry Slush: Blend with crushed ice for a summer treat.
• Cherry Cream Soda: Add a splash of cream or coconut milk for a creamy twist.
• Cherry Iced Tea: Stir into cold black or green tea.
• Blue Cherry Punch: Mix with blue raspberry juice for a fun kid-friendly drink.

For more fruity creations, try our refreshing Watermelon Cucumber Feta Salad to balance the sweetness.

Party Drink Ideas With Cherries – How to Serve It Festively

Make your cherry vanilla cola the star of your next gathering with these serving tips:

• Drink bar station: Set up a soda bar with syrups, sparkling water, fruit, and ice.
• Garnish with fresh cherries on the rim or skewered with mint.
• Serve in mason jars or vintage soda glasses for a nostalgic touch.
• Freeze syrup into ice cubes and drop them into club soda.
• Create layered drinks with different fruit syrups for a colorful effect.

These make excellent additions to kids’ parties, summer BBQs, baby showers, and more.

Frozen Cherry or Blue Cherry Variations

Looking to get creative? Try these fun, colorful spins on the original syrup:

Frozen Cherry Version:

• Use frozen cherries straight from the freezer—no thawing needed.
• Add lemon juice and blend with ice for a Frozen Cherry Cola Slushie.

Blue Cherry Version:

• Add a few drops of natural blue spirulina or blueberry juice to your syrup for a “blue cherry” look.
• This is a hit at themed parties or for colorful holiday drinks.

These variations are not only fun but also great for experimenting with mixed drinks with cherries—without adding any alcohol.

Storage Tips for Homemade Cola Syrup

Proper storage ensures your cherry vanilla syrup stays fresh and flavorful.

• Refrigerator: Store in a sealed glass bottle or jar for up to 2 weeks.
• Freezer: Pour into ice cube trays and freeze for up to 3 months. Use as drink cubes!
• Avoid plastic containers, as they can absorb odors and affect flavor.

Make a big batch in cherry season and freeze for year-round use.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Cherry Vanilla Cola

Avoid these easy-to-make mistakes:

• Over-boiling the syrup – it can caramelize or turn bitter
• Skipping the straining – leads to pulpy or gritty drinks
• Using underripe cherries – results in a flat or tart flavor
• Adding vanilla too early – it may evaporate and lose its aroma
• Not letting it cool before storing – condensation may form inside the jar

Following these steps ensures your syrup stays vibrant and delicious.

When to Serve Cherry Vanilla Cola – Best Occasions & Pairings

This homemade drink fits a wide range of events. Serve it:

• At brunches with fruit salads or pastries
• During family BBQs alongside Pumpkin Grilled Cheese
• As a back-to-school treat with 3-Ingredient Pencil Cookies
• For themed parties, especially retro, soda-shop, or color-themed gatherings
• During the holidays as a non-alcoholic festive drink

It’s also a refreshing pick-me-up on hot summer days or a unique gift when bottled in small jars.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Cherry Vanilla Cola

Can I use sour cherries instead of sweet cherries?
Yes, but you may want to increase the sugar to balance the tartness.

Can I make this syrup sugar-free?
You can try alternatives like monk fruit or erythritol, but results may vary.

Do I need a soda maker to use this syrup?
Nope! Just use store-bought sparkling water or club soda.

Can I make this in large batches?
Absolutely. Just double or triple the ingredients and store in multiple containers.

Can I use this syrup in baking or desserts?
Yes! Drizzle over pancakes, ice cream, or use as a cake soak.

Conclusion + Share This Homemade Cherry Vanilla Cola Recipe

Making your own Cherry Vanilla Cola is not only fun but also a delicious way to enjoy the sweet-tart flavors of summer all year long. With fresh cherries, pure vanilla, and customizable sweetness, this syrup is perfect for everything from casual afternoons to festive events.

It’s easy to make, easy to store, and easy to love. Try it once, and you’ll be hooked on the bright, natural flavor. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family, and subscribe to our blog at RecipeSize.com for more homemade drinks, desserts, and creative kitchen ideas!

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