7-11 Cherry Slurpee
7-11 Cherry Slurpee Recipe - Club Soda, Granulated Sugar, Kool-Aid Mix
Introduction
The 7-11 Cherry Slurpee is a quintessential summer treat that has been cooling off generations with its icy, sweet cherry flavor. This homemade version captures the essence of the original with simple ingredients and easy steps, allowing you to enjoy this iconic beverage from the comfort of your home. Whether you're looking to beat the heat or simply indulge in a nostalgic treat, this recipe promises to deliver the classic Slurpee experience.
History
The Slurpee, particularly the cherry flavor, has a storied history that dates back to the 1960s when the first machines were introduced in 7-11 stores. Originally a serendipitous invention resulting from a soda fountain malfunction, the Slurpee quickly became a beloved staple of 7-11 and a cultural icon in its own right. Over the years, the Cherry Slurpee has remained a fan favorite, symbolizing summertime and carefree enjoyment.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- Pour 1 cup of club soda into a blender.
- Add the sugar, Kool-Aid mix, and cherry extract.
- Blend until all the sugar is dissolved.
- Add the crushed ice and blend on high speed until the drink reaches a slushy, smooth consistency with no chunks of ice remaining.
- Add the remaining club soda and blend briefly to mix.
- If necessary, stop the blender and use a long spoon to stir the contents.
- If needed, place the blender in the freezer for 0.5 hour to thicken.
- After 0.5 hour, remove the blender from the freezer and blend briefly to mix.
Variations
- For a twist on the classic, try substituting the cherry extract with other flavors like blue raspberry, lemon-lime, or grape. Adjust the amount of sugar to suit your taste preferences.
- For a twist on the classic Cherry Slurpee, consider adding a splash of lemon-lime soda for a zesty flavor or mixing in other Kool-Aid flavors for a unique taste. A sugar-free version can be made by substituting the granulated sugar with an alternative sweetener.
- For a twist on the classic, try substituting the cherry extract with other flavors like blue raspberry, lemon-lime, or grape. You can also mix in fresh fruit for added texture and taste.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
To achieve the perfect Slurpee consistency, ensure that your club soda is very cold before starting. Using a high-powered blender is key to obtaining that smooth, icy texture. If the mixture is too liquid, don't hesitate to add more crushed ice until the desired consistency is reached. For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a few fresh cherry pieces to the blend.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cherry Slurpee immediately after blending for the best texture and flavor. Consider garnishing with a maraschino cherry or a slice of fresh lime for an extra touch of elegance.
Cooking Techniques
The key technique in this recipe is blending to achieve the perfect slushy consistency. Starting with the liquid ingredients allows for easier mixing and a smoother texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you prefer a less sugary option, consider using a sugar substitute or reducing the amount of granulated sugar. Additionally, lemon-lime soda can be used in place of club soda for an extra flavor dimension.
Make Ahead Tips
For an even thicker Slurpee, prepare the mixture ahead of time and store it in the freezer. When ready to serve, let it thaw slightly, then blend again to achieve the ideal consistency.
Presentation Ideas
Serve your Cherry Slurpee in a clear glass to showcase its vibrant color. A colorful straw and a sprinkle of edible glitter can add a fun, festive touch.
Pairing Recommendations
The Cherry Slurpee pairs wonderfully with light summer fare such as grilled chicken salads, fruit platters, or a classic hot dog.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Slurpees are best enjoyed fresh and do not store well once blended. However, the unblended mixture can be kept in the refrigerator for up to two days before use.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of the homemade Cherry Slurpee contains approximately 120 calories, making it a relatively low-calorie option for a sweet treat.
Carbohydrates
This homemade Cherry Slurpee primarily consists of simple carbohydrates from the granulated sugar and the Kool-Aid mix. Each serving contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates, providing a quick source of energy.
Fats
This recipe is virtually fat-free, making it a lighter option for those monitoring their fat intake. The absence of fats also contributes to the Slurpee's refreshing quality.
Proteins
The Cherry Slurpee contains negligible amounts of protein, as it is primarily a sweetened beverage designed for enjoyment rather than nutritional sustenance.
Vitamins and minerals
While not a significant source of vitamins and minerals, you can enhance the nutritional profile of your Slurpee by adding a splash of 100% cherry juice, which is rich in antioxidants and vitamins.
Alergens
This recipe is free from common allergens such as nuts, dairy, and gluten. However, those with specific sensitivities should check the labels of the Kool-Aid mix and cherry extract for potential allergen information.
Summary
Overall, the homemade Cherry Slurpee is a low-fat, low-protein, and moderate-carbohydrate treat that serves as a delightful indulgence on a hot day. While not a significant source of nutrients, it can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Summary
This homemade 7-11 Cherry Slurpee recipe offers a delightful way to recreate a beloved classic. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can enjoy this iconic treat anytime. Whether you stick to the classic cherry or experiment with new flavors, this Slurpee is sure to bring a smile to your face and a cool respite from the summer heat.
How did I get this recipe?
The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a hot summer day, much like today, when I stumbled upon the secret behind the delicious 7-11 Cherry Slurpee. I was visiting my friend Charlotte in the bustling city of New York, and we were roaming the streets, looking for something to cool us down in the sweltering heat.
As we passed by a 7-11 convenience store, I remembered how much I used to love their Cherry Slurpees as a child. The sweet and tangy flavor, paired with the icy cold texture, was always the perfect treat on a scorching day. I shared my nostalgia with Charlotte, and she suggested we try to recreate the recipe at home.
We quickly made our way to a nearby grocery store, picking up all the necessary ingredients. We bought a bag of frozen cherries, some sugar, lemon juice, and a bottle of club soda. I couldn't contain my excitement as we rushed back to Charlotte's apartment to begin our culinary experiment.
Charlotte had a blender that she used for her morning smoothies, and we decided it would be perfect for making our Cherry Slurpees. We tossed the frozen cherries, sugar, and lemon juice into the blender, adding a splash of club soda for a little fizz. I watched in anticipation as Charlotte hit the blend button, the ingredients swirling together into a vibrant red concoction.
As she poured the mixture into a tall glass, I couldn't wait to take my first sip. The flavor that hit my taste buds transported me back to my childhood, standing in front of the 7-11 slurpee machine, choosing the cherry flavor every time. It was just as sweet and refreshing as I remembered, if not even better.
I knew then and there that I had to learn the secret behind this recipe. I begged Charlotte to teach me, and she happily agreed. We spent the rest of the afternoon experimenting with different ratios of cherries to sugar, adjusting the amount of lemon juice for that perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.
After several trials and errors, we finally landed on the perfect recipe for the 7-11 Cherry Slurpee. It was a simple yet magical combination of frozen cherries, sugar, lemon juice, and club soda. I couldn't believe how easy it was to recreate this childhood favorite at home.
From that day on, the 7-11 Cherry Slurpee became a staple in my recipe collection. I made it for family gatherings, summer picnics, and even just as a sweet treat for myself on a hot day. Each time I took a sip, I was reminded of that fateful day in New York, when I discovered the secret behind this delicious drink.
Over the years, I shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition of making homemade Cherry Slurpees. It became a beloved recipe in our household, a taste of summer that never failed to bring a smile to our faces.
As I sit here now, reflecting on that unforgettable day, I can't help but feel grateful for the simple joys in life. The joy of discovering a new recipe, the joy of sharing it with loved ones, and the joy of reliving childhood memories through food.
And so, the recipe for the 7-11 Cherry Slurpee will always hold a special place in my heart. It's a reminder of the power of food to connect us, to bring us together, and to create lasting memories that we will cherish forever.