This Cherry Lime Frost Dirty Soda is a cold, fizzy, creamy treat that hits the spot on a hot day—or anytime you’re craving something sweet and a little sour. It’s creamy from the half-and-half, tangy from the lime, and packed with that classic cherry soda vibe. You only need a few ingredients, and there’s no cooking at all. Just pour, mix, and sip.
Why I Love This Recipe
I first had a dirty soda on a road trip through Utah, and I’ve been hooked ever since. This version is my go-to when I want something fun, fizzy, and a little fancy without a ton of effort.
- The combo of cherry and lime is classic and refreshing
- The half-and-half makes it creamy and rich, almost like a float
- It takes 5 minutes max
- You don’t need a blender or any special equipment
- You can make it just how you like it—extra cherry, more lime, less cream… go for it!
What You’ll Need
- 1 can (12 oz) cherry soda (like Cherry Coke or Cherry Dr. Pepper)
- 2 tbsp maraschino cherry juice (from the jar)
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup half-and-half
- 1/2 cup crushed ice
- 1 maraschino cherry (for topping)
- 1 lime wedge (for topping)
Pro Tips
- Use crushed ice instead of cubes—it melts faster and mixes better with the flavors
- Chill your glass first for a colder, more refreshing drink
- Stir gently after adding the half-and-half so it swirls nicely without curdling
- You can use diet soda if you want to lighten it up
- Add more cherry juice if you like it extra sweet
Tools Required
- Tall glass
- Spoon or straw for stirring
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cup
- Citrus squeezer (for the lime)
- Small bowls (for juices and ice)
Substitutions and Variations
- Swap the cherry soda for regular cola and add extra cherry juice
- Use coconut cream instead of half-and-half for a tropical vibe
- Try lemon juice instead of lime for a different twist
- Vanilla syrup instead of cherry juice makes a “creamsicle” version
- Add a splash of club soda to cut the sweetness
Make Ahead Tips
- You can juice the lime and pour the maraschino cherry juice ahead of time—store both in the fridge
- Chill the soda and half-and-half before assembling for the coldest drink
- Pre-crush your ice and keep it in the freezer in a zip bag
Instructions
Step 1: Add Crushed Ice to Glass
Place 1/2 cup crushed ice into a tall glass. This is your cold base that helps everything mix right.
Step 2: Pour in Cherry Soda
Slowly pour in 1 can (12 oz) cherry soda over the ice. Let it fizz and settle for a second.
Step 3: Add Maraschino Cherry Juice
Add 2 tbsp maraschino cherry juice. This gives it that rich cherry punch and extra sweetness.
Step 4: Add Fresh Lime Juice
Add 1 tbsp fresh lime juice. The acidity balances out all the sweet.
Step 5: Pour in Half-and-Half
Slowly pour 1/4 cup half-and-half into the glass. You’ll see it swirl and mix with the soda for that frosty effect.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Top it off with 1 maraschino cherry and a lime wedge on the rim of the glass. Pop in a straw and serve immediately.
Leftovers and Storage
This drink is best enjoyed right after you make it. If you let it sit too long, the ice melts and the soda goes flat. If needed, you can prep the ingredients and assemble just before serving.
Servings & Time
Makes: 1 tall glass
Total Time: 5 minutes
Macros Information (approx.)
These will vary slightly based on brand of soda and juice
- Calories: ~220
- Carbs: 38g
- Fat: 6g
- Protein: 1g
- Sugar: 35g
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
The carbonation from the soda lifts and blends the flavors quickly. The half-and-half brings in fat, which mellows out the acid from the lime and sharpness of the soda. Cherry juice adds color, flavor, and sweetness, while lime juice cuts through the richness for balance. Crushed ice helps keep the temperature low and blends better than cubes.
Common Mistakes
- Using too much lime: It can overpower the drink if you’re not careful
- Pouring cream too fast: It can curdle if the soda is too acidic or warm
- Using warm soda: It won’t fizz or mix as nicely
- Skipping the stir: You want the flavors to swirl and not sit in layers
What to Serve With
- Popcorn or salty snacks
- Pretzel bites with cheese dip
- Burgers or grilled cheese
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side
- Nachos for a fun snack combo
FAQ
Can I make this with diet soda?
Yep! Just know it might taste a little different depending on the brand.
Is there a dairy-free version?
Use coconut cream, oat milk, or almond milk—just don’t add too much or it might separate.
Can I make a big batch?
You can, but mix right before serving to keep it fizzy and fresh.
Final Thoughts
This Cherry Lime Frost Dirty Soda is super fun, super easy, and totally customizable. Whether you’re chilling on the couch, having a movie night, or just want something sweet, it’s a total win. Try it, enjoy it, and don’t forget to leave a comment if you make it—I’d love to hear how yours turns out!
