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Ingredients
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Cola Syrup (makes concentrate for mixing with carbonated water)
To Serve
Method
Cola Syrup (makes concentrate for mixing with carbonated water)
- 1
Make simple base
Combine 1 cup water, 1 cup white sugar and 1/4 cup brown sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until sugars dissolve and mixture comes to a gentle simmer. Do not boil aggressively; maintain a low simmer for 4–5 minutes to thicken slightly.
- 2
Add flavorings
Reduce heat to low. Add the lemon zest, orange zest, 1 tablespoon caramel color or syrup, 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg, 1/8 tsp ground coriander and 1/4 tsp dried lavender. Stir and simmer gently for 2 minutes to let the citrus oils and spices infuse.
- 3
Finish syrup
Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon citric acid, 1/2 teaspoon mild vinegar (or another 1/2 tsp citric acid if you prefer), and 1/4 tsp caffeine powder or 1 tablespoon very strong brewed coffee (if using). Taste carefully — syrup should be sweet with a bright acidic note and warm spice undertones. If too sweet, add up to 1/4 tsp additional citric acid; if too tart, add a teaspoon sugar while still warm to dissolve.
- 4
Strain and cool
Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean jar to remove zest, spice bits and lavender. Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until thoroughly chilled. Syrup will keep refrigerated for up to 2 weeks.
To Serve
- 5
Measure and mix: For a standard strength cola, combine 1 part cola syrup to 4 parts chilled carbonated water. Example: in a tall glass with ice, add 2 ounces (about 1/4 cup) chilled syrup and 8 ounces (1 cup) chilled carbonated water. Stir gently to combine so carbonation is preserved.
- 6
Garnish and adjust: Taste and adjust sweetness/acidity to your preference by adding more syrup (sweeter/stronger) or more carbonated water (lighter). Garnish with a lemon or lime wedge if desired. Serve immediately while fizzy.
- 7
Yield and storage: The recipe yields about 1 1/2 cups cola syrup, enough to make approximately 6 servings (with 1:4 dilution). Store leftover syrup refrigerated up to 2 weeks; mix with carbonated water as needed.
