🇺🇸 USA · Drinks
Classic American Lime Rickey
By eatmundo · July 8, 2026
🇺🇸 USStep back in time with a refreshing Classic American Lime Rickey, a crisp and invigorating soda fountain favorite. This simple yet elegant drink perfectly balances tart lime juice with a touch of sweetness, all topped with effervescent soda water for a truly delightful experience.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Choose a tall, chilled glass, such as a highball or Collins glass. Chilling your glass beforehand helps to keep your drink colder for longer, enhancing its refreshing quality.
- 2
Into the chilled glass, pour 2 tablespoons (30ml) of fresh lime juice. For the best flavor, always use freshly squeezed lime juice—it makes a significant difference.
- 3
Add 1 to 2 tablespoons (15-30ml) of simple syrup to the glass, adjusting the amount to your preferred level of sweetness. Start with less and add more if needed.
- 4
Fill the glass completely with ice cubes. Make sure the ice reaches the rim to ensure maximum chill and a proper dilution ratio as you add the soda water.
- 5
Top the mixture generously with 1 cup (240ml) of chilled soda water. Pour slowly to preserve the carbonation and create a nice effervescence.
- 6
Stir the drink gently with a long spoon to combine the ingredients without losing too much of the soda's fizz. A few swirls are usually enough.
- 7
Garnish your Classic Lime Rickey with a fresh lime slice or wedge on the rim or dropped into the drink. Serve immediately and enjoy the vibrant, sparkling refreshment!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is simple syrup and how do I make it?+
Simple syrup is a liquid sweetener made by heating equal parts sugar and water until the sugar dissolves. Let it cool before using. It integrates smoothly into cold drinks.
Can I use bottled lime juice for a Lime Rickey?+
While convenient, fresh lime juice is highly recommended for a Lime Rickey. Bottled juice often lacks the bright, authentic flavor and aroma essential for this drink.
How can I make my Lime Rickey less sweet or more tart?+
To make it less sweet, simply reduce the amount of simple syrup. For a more tart flavor, you can add an extra splash of lime juice or use slightly less simple syrup.
Is there an alcoholic version of a Lime Rickey?+
Yes, the Gin Rickey is a classic cocktail that uses gin as its base spirit, traditionally combining it with lime juice and soda water for a similar crisp and refreshing profile.
🇺🇸 USMundo Match
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