Cherry Coke Ice Cream is a fun, fizzy, and fruity frozen treat that brings together the nostalgic flavors of a classic soda fountain drink. With the rich sweetness of cola, the brightness of cherries, and a creamy ice cream base, this dessert is as playful as it is delicious. I love making it for summer parties, backyard BBQs, or any time I want something different and refreshing with a retro vibe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it captures the bold, fizzy flavor of Cherry Coke in a rich and creamy scoop. It’s sweet and slightly tangy, with a hint of vanilla and that signature cherry cola twist. Whether I churn it in an ice cream maker or use the no-churn method, it’s easy to make and always a hit with both kids and adults.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cherry Coke (not diet, reduced slightly to intensify flavor)
heavy cream
sweetened condensed milk
vanilla extract
maraschino cherries (chopped)
cherry juice (from the jar)
optional: cola syrup or cherry extract (for extra flavor boost)
red food coloring (optional, for color)

Directions

  1. I start by pouring the Cherry Coke into a saucepan and simmering it over medium heat until it reduces by half. This concentrates the flavor and helps the ice cream set properly. I let it cool completely.

  2. In a large mixing bowl, I stir together the reduced Cherry Coke, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, cherry juice, and optional flavor boosters like cherry extract or cola syrup.

  3. In a separate bowl, I whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.

  4. I fold the whipped cream gently into the Cherry Coke mixture until fully combined.

  5. I stir in the chopped maraschino cherries and a drop or two of food coloring if I want that bright pink hue.

  6. I pour the mixture into a loaf pan or freezer-safe container, smooth the top, and cover it tightly.

  7. I freeze it for at least 6 hours or overnight, until firm.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6–8 servings and takes 20 minutes to prep, plus 6 hours of freezing time. It’s perfect to make the night before a get-together or to have ready for a spontaneous dessert craving.

Variations

Sometimes I swirl in cherry preserves or cola syrup for ribbons of flavor. I’ve also folded in chunks of chocolate or fudge ripple to mimic a Cherry Coke float. For a boozy twist, I add a splash of cherry liqueur or spiced rum to the base (just a little, or it won’t freeze properly). If I want it lighter, I use half whipped cream and half Greek yogurt.

Storage/reheating

I store the ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. To serve, I let it sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes to soften for easy scooping. No reheating needed—just grab a spoon and dig in.

FAQs

Can I use diet Cherry Coke?

No, I don’t recommend it. The artificial sweeteners in diet soda won’t reduce properly and can affect the texture of the ice cream.

Do I need to reduce the soda?

Yes, reducing it intensifies the flavor and helps eliminate excess water that could make the ice cream icy.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino?

Yes, but I cook and sweeten them slightly first. Maraschino cherries add that classic soda-shop vibe.

Is this ice cream fizzy?

The soda’s carbonation is mostly gone after reducing, so it’s not fizzy—but it keeps the signature Cherry Coke flavor.

Can I make this in an ice cream maker?

Yes, I churn the chilled mixture according to my ice cream maker’s instructions for an even creamier texture.

Conclusion

Cherry Coke Ice Cream is a nostalgic, flavorful twist on homemade ice cream that brings together creamy indulgence and fizzy fun. It’s a playful dessert I turn to when I want something unique and full of character. Whether served in a cone, with whipped cream, or as part of a float, it’s always a cool blast from the past.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Cherry Coke Ice Cream

Cherry Coke Ice Cream

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes (to reduce soda)
  • Total Time: 6 hours 30 minutes (includes freezing)
  • Yield: 6–8 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Churn (or Churned)
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Cherry Coke Ice Cream is a nostalgic, creamy dessert that captures the fizzy fun of a soda shop classic. With reduced Cherry Coke, maraschino cherries, and a smooth vanilla base, this frozen treat is sweet, tangy, and full of retro charm.


Ingredients

  • 2 cups Cherry Coke (not diet), reduced to 1 cup
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup maraschino cherry juice (from the jar)
  • 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, chopped
  • Optional: 1 tsp cola syrup or cherry extract
  • Optional: 1–2 drops red food coloring

Instructions

  1. In a saucepan, simmer Cherry Coke over medium heat until reduced by half (to 1 cup). Let cool completely.
  2. In a large bowl, combine reduced Cherry Coke, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, cherry juice, and optional flavorings.
  3. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
  4. Gently fold whipped cream into the Cherry Coke mixture until smooth.
  5. Stir in chopped cherries and food coloring if using.
  6. Pour into a loaf pan or freezer-safe container, smooth the top, and cover tightly.
  7. Freeze for at least 6 hours or overnight, until firm.

Notes

  • Reduce soda to concentrate flavor and avoid icy texture.
  • Maraschino cherries give the best soda-shop flavor, but cooked fresh cherries can be used.
  • Add cherry preserves or fudge ripple for extra texture and flavor.
  • For a boozy version, add 1 tbsp cherry liqueur or spiced rum—do not overdo it or it won’t freeze properly.
  • Use an ice cream maker for an even creamier finish.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/2 cup
  • Calories: 290
  • Sugar: 26g
  • Sodium: 60mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 13g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star