Frozen Cherry Coke Slushies

This refreshing Frozen Cherry Coke Slushie transforms the classic soda into a sophisticated frozen treat perfect for hot summer days. The combination of tangy cherries and the iconic cola flavor creates a nostalgic yet elevated experience that's endlessly customizable.

I discovered this recipe during a particularly brutal heatwave last summer. What started as a desperate attempt to cool down quickly became our family's signature summer refreshment, now requested at every backyard gathering.

Ingredients

• Coca-Cola: Chilled and divided for freezing and blending creates the perfect slushie texture
• Fresh lime juice: Adds brightness that balances the sweetness beautifully
• Bourbon, dark rum or Campari (optional): Transforms this into a sophisticated cocktail
• Frozen pitted cherries: Provide natural fruity flavor and stunning color without diluting
• Lime wheels: For garnish, add a professional touch and extra citrus aroma
• Maraschino cherries (optional): Create a delightful throwback to classic cherry cokes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Freeze the Cola Base:

Pour exactly 1½ cups of chilled Coca-Cola into ice cube trays, ensuring they're filled just below the rim to allow for expansion. Place trays on a level surface in your freezer and leave undisturbed for 3 to 4 hours until completely solid. The frozen cola cubes are what give this slushie its signature texture.

Prepare the Blender:

Add ingredients to your blender in the exact order listed: first lime juice, then alcohol if using, followed by remaining chilled Coca-Cola. This specific layering prevents the acidic lime juice from directly contacting your blender blades and ensures proper blending.

Add Frozen Components:

Add the frozen Coca-Cola cubes and frozen cherries to your blender. The combination of these two frozen elements creates the perfect slushie consistency without needing additional ice that would water down the flavor.

Blend to Perfection:

Blend on high speed for 1 to 2 minutes, pausing occasionally to scrape down the sides with a spatula. Continue blending until the mixture is completely smooth with a thick, icy consistency that holds its shape when poured.

Serve with Style:

Pour the slushie mixture into chilled glasses for the best temperature retention. Garnish each glass with a fresh lime wheel placed on the rim and add a maraschino cherry for that classic cherry coke visual appeal.

Pin it

The frozen cherries are truly the magic ingredient here. I once tried making this with fresh cherries and ice, but the flavor was diluted and flat. The concentrated flavor in frozen cherries plus their natural icy texture creates that perfect slushie consistency without compromising on taste.

Make-Ahead Tips

This slushie can be prepared up to 4 hours in advance and stored in the freezer. If it becomes too solid, simply let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving, or give it a quick pulse in the blender with a splash of additional Coca-Cola to revive the texture. The pre-blended mixture actually develops more complex flavors when allowed to rest, making this an excellent party preparation strategy.

Flavor Variations

While cherries create the classic version, this recipe works beautifully with other frozen fruits. Try blackberries for a deeper, more complex flavor, or strawberries for a brighter, more summery take. For an extra dimension, consider adding a few fresh herbs like basil or mint to the blender. My personal favorite variation includes a handful of frozen peaches alongside the cherries for a Southern-inspired treat.

Serving Suggestions

These slushies shine as part of a backyard barbecue spread, especially alongside grilled burgers or spicy foods where the cold sweetness provides welcome contrast. For a dessert approach, serve in smaller glasses with a drizzle of chocolate syrup and a dollop of whipped cream. During the holidays, I've served these with a cinnamon stick stirrer for a festive twist that complements the cherry notes beautifully.

Pin it

Perfect for summer days, this slushie balances nostalgia and sophistication—truly the ultimate refreshing treat!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make this without alcohol?

Yes, simply skip the bourbon, rum, or Campari for a family-friendly version. The drink will still be delicious with the cola and cherry blend.

→ How do I freeze the cola?

Pour the cola into ice cube trays and freeze for 3-4 hours until solid. This creates a slushy texture when blended.

→ Can I use fresh cherries instead of frozen?

You can, but the frozen cherries ensure the drink has a frosty texture. If using fresh cherries, add additional ice cubes.

→ What’s a good garnish for this drink?

Thin lime wheels or maraschino cherries make excellent garnishes for this drink, enhancing its presentation and flavor.

→ How can I make a sweeter version?

If you prefer a sweeter drink, you might add a splash of simple syrup or use a sweeter soda like cherry cola.