Coca Cola Recipe

Combine aromatics

In a small heatproof bowl or jar combine the orange zest, lemon zest, crushed coriander seeds, a pinch of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg.

Add 2 tablespoons of water to the aromatics and let steep for 10 minutes to extract the oils and flavors. If using whole spices (coriander), gently crush them first to help release aroma.

After steeping, strain the liquid through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a small cup, pressing the solids to extract as much flavored liquid as possible. Discard solids.

Stir into the strained aromatic liquid the 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 1 teaspoon concentrated cold-brew coffee (or 1/2 tsp dark caramel extract) until combined. This mixture is your cola flavoring syrup.

In a tall glass or small pitcher, dissolve 2 tablespoons granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon packed light brown sugar with 1 teaspoon fresh lime juice. Stir thoroughly so sugars begin to dissolve. Slight warming (30–40 seconds in the microwave) can help dissolve sugar if needed; cool before proceeding.

Add the prepared cola flavoring syrup to the sweetened lime mixture and stir to combine.

Pour in 2 cups of chilled carbonated water slowly to preserve fizz. Stir gently once or twice to incorporate the syrup and water without flattening the carbonation.

Taste and adjust: add a little more lime juice for brightness (up to another 1/2 tsp), or a touch more sugar if you prefer sweeter. If you want a darker 'cola' note, add 1/4 to 1/2 tsp more cold-brew concentrate or 1/4 tsp dark caramel extract.

Fill a serving glass with 1 cup of ice cubes (optional). Pour the freshly made cola over the ice.

Garnish with a lime wheel on the rim. Serve immediately to enjoy maximum carbonation.