The Dunkin’ Cherry Lime Rickey Refresher took the internet by storm, captivating fans of sweet, tangy, and bubbly drinks everywhere. Its bold cherry flavor, zesty lime, and the pop of sparkling fizz make it an absolute treat for sunny days, afternoon pick-me-ups, or as the highlight of your next gathering. Whether you’re a die-hard Dunkin’ devotee or simply crave thirst-quenching refreshers, learning to make this copycat recipe at home will become your new obsession.
What’s even better? You only need a handful of accessible ingredients to recreate this iconic sip—no fancy syrups, mysterious concentrates, or special equipment needed. If you love exploring homemade versions of your coffeehouse favorites, check out our other flavorful drinks and creative treats ideas to spark even more kitchen inspiration. Now, let’s jump into making your own Dunkin’ Cherry Lime Rickey Refresher!
Table of Contents
How to make Cherry Lime Rickey Refresher
This copycat recipe blends tart lime juice, sweet cherry syrup, fizzy club soda, and a splash of green tea—just like Dunkin’—for a perfectly balanced drink. With homemade or store-bought ingredients, you can adjust the sweetness and tang to your taste. Serve it ice cold for the most refreshing experience.
Nutrition facts
- Serving Size: 16 oz glass
- Calories: 90
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Sugar: 21g
- Protein: 0g
- Caffeine: ~15mg (from green tea)
This recipe is naturally fat-free and can easily be made with reduced sugar by adjusting the syrup or using sugar-free alternatives.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup fresh lime juice (about 3–4 limes) — 🛒 Buy on Amazon
- 1/4 cup cherry syrup (grenadine or maraschino cherry juice) — 🛒 Buy on Amazon
- 1 tablespoon simple syrup (or to taste) — 🛒 Buy on Amazon
- 1/2 cup brewed green tea, cooled — 🛒 Buy on Amazon
- 2 cups club soda or sparkling water — 🛒 Buy on Amazon
- Ice cubes — 🛒 Buy on Amazon
- Lime wedges and maraschino cherries (for garnish) — 🛒 Buy on Amazon
Tools you’ll need
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Juicer (for fresh lime juice)
- Mixing glass or cocktail shaker
- Long spoon or stirrer
- Servings glasses (16 oz recommended)
- Knife and cutting board (for garnishes)
Instructions
- 1. Brew Green Tea: Steep 1 green tea bag in 8 oz hot water for 3-4 minutes. Let cool completely. (You can do this step ahead of time.)
- 2. Prepare Lime Juice: Squeeze fresh limes to get ½ cup lime juice (about 3–4 limes). Strain to remove seeds.
- 3. Mix the Base: In a large mixing glass or shaker, combine ½ cup lime juice, ¼ cup cherry syrup (such as grenadine or maraschino cherry juice), 1 tablespoon simple syrup (adjust for sweetness), and ½ cup brewed green tea.
- 4. Add Ice: Fill a serving glass halfway with ice cubes.
- 5. Pour and Top: Pour the cherry-lime-green tea mixture over the ice. Top with 1 cup club soda or sparkling water for fizz.
- 6. Garnish: Add lime wedges and maraschino cherries for the classic look.
- 7. Serve Immediately: Stir gently and enjoy your homemade Cherry Lime Rickey Refresher!
What to serve with
Drinks
- Pair with other drinks like homemade Mango Pineapple Refreshers or classic iced teas for a DIY cafe experience.
Sides
- Enjoy with light snacks—think lemon scones, buttery croissants, or fresh fruit.
- Serve alongside savory breakfast sandwiches or bagels for a vibrant brunch spread.
Treats
- The sweet-tart flavor complements cookies, fruity muffins, or a slice of cheesecake. Need inspiration? Browse more treats recipes.
Variations
- Low-sugar: Use sugar-free cherry syrup and simple syrup to cut down on calories and sugar.
- Alcoholic Twist: Add a splash of vodka or gin for a grown-up refresher cocktail.
- Frozen Version: Blend all ingredients with ice for a cherry lime slushie.
- Herbal Infusion: Add muddled mint or basil leaves for bright, herbal notes.
- Extra Bubbly: Swap club soda for lime-flavored sparkling water for intensified lime zing.
Ingredient Substitutes
- Cherry Syrup (e.g., grenadine):
- Maraschino cherry juice
- Homemade cherry reduction
- Black cherry syrup
- Lime Juice:
- Lemon juice (for a slightly different tartness)
- Bottled lime juice (not from concentrate)
- Simple Syrup:
- Agave nectar
- Honey (lighter flavor)
- Monkfruit or stevia syrup (for sugar-free version)
- Club Soda:
- Sparkling water
- Lemon-lime soda (for extra sweetness and fizz)
- Green Tea:
- White tea
- Lemongrass tea
- Skip for a pure mocktail experience
- Maraschino Cherries:
- Fresh sweet cherries (pitted and halved)
- Dried cherries rehydrated in syrup
- Fresh Limes (for garnish):
- Lemon wedges
- Lime zest curls
Ingredients
1/2 cup fresh lime juice (about 3–4 limes)
1/4 cup cherry syrup (grenadine or maraschino cherry juice)
1 tablespoon simple syrup (or to taste)
1/2 cup brewed green tea, cooled
2 cups club soda or sparkling water
Ice cubes
Lime wedges and maraschino cherries (for garnish)
Instructions
Brew the green tea, let it cool completely.
Squeeze limes to get 1/2 cup fresh juice; strain.
In a shaker or large glass, mix together lime juice, cherry syrup, simple syrup, and cooled green tea.
Fill two 16 oz glasses halfway with ice.
Divide the cherry-lime mixture between glasses. Top each with 1 cup club soda.
Gently stir to combine.
Garnish with lime wedges and cherries. Serve immediately.
