This sweet drink is as big and bold as the Lone Star State itself. It is no surprise that it is the classic drink at any carnival or state fair. This Texas Twister Copycat is summer in a glass that is guaranteed to quench thirst in the summer heat. Our twist on a sweet Texas Twister brings the fresh ingredients you love while keeping it super easy to put together in a flash. Our simple make-ahead instructions will make it easy for you to enjoy this delicious freshness all summer long.
For more carnival favorites to recreate at home, check out our County Fair Funnel Cake or our Deep Fried Oreos.
Why Our Recipe
- Tastes just like the drink you see at every carnival and state fair.
- Freshly squeezed goodness that’s as pretty to look at as it is delicious to drink.
My family had a dutch oven cook-off last summer and they could not get enough of this fantastic drink. This is my go-to drink for a crowd on a summer day. Neighborhood potlucks or anytime that we have an excuse to have an outside barbecue we will be sipping on this sweet, refreshing treat. It doesn’t feel like it’s officially summer until we have some of this cool, refreshing deliciousness.
Ingredient Notes
- Orange, lemon, and lime juice: Fresh juice is best for that bright summer flavor, but in a pinch, you can substitute a 12 oz can of frozen concentrate for each fruit.
- Pomegranate juice: This tartness provides the perfect balance to the citrus sweetener. Texas twister recipes often call for grenadine syrup, but this great substitute is much easier to find.
- Sugar: Listen, you could leave it out, but if you are going to tone down the sugar, using diet soda is a great place to cut it down.
- Water: Adjust the ratio of water and lemon-lime soda if it’s a little too sweet to your taste.
- Lemon lime soda: This brings an extra punch of sweetness and the fizz that really quenches that thirst.
- Maraschino cherries: Brings the final touch to the flavor combination with the smoothness of the cherries. Make sure to use all of the cherries and juice.
Freezing For Later
We love making a huge batch because it freezes so well and then we can use it throughout the summer. Mix together the fruit juices and sugar to make an easy concentrate. Just pour the concentrate into a gallon freezer bag and lay it flat in the freezer until solid.
Thaw the concentrate by running the frozen bag under warm water until you can break it into small pieces with your hand. Then place the icy concentrate into a pitcher and add the ratio of water and lemon-lime soda to your liking. This additional liquid should be enough to thaw the rest. Give it a stir, add your maraschino cherries, and serve.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to seven days after mixing. The carbonation in the drink will dissipate, but the juice and flavor will remain.
Wait, no alcohol?
Texas Twisters are not an alcoholic beverage, but you can certainly turn it into one!