Soda Recipe

Make simple syrup (if not using store-bought)

Combine equal parts granulated sugar and water (for example, 1/2 cup sugar and 1/2 cup water) in a small saucepan. Heat over medium, stirring until sugar dissolves. Bring to a gentle simmer for 1 minute, then remove from heat and cool to room temperature. Store in the refrigerator.

If using bottled flavored soda syrup or concentrate, measure out 1/2 cup (or follow manufacturer concentration instructions) and set aside.

Chill a tall glass. Add about 1/2 cup ice to the glass.

Pour 1/2 cup simple syrup (or measured soda syrup) over the ice.

Add 1 tablespoon fresh citrus juice (lemon or lime) or 1 tablespoon of a complementary flavored syrup to brighten the soda.

Add 1/4 teaspoon flavoring extract or soda concentrate (vanilla for cream soda, cola concentrate for cola flavor, root beer concentrate for root beer, or a fruit concentrate). If using bitters for complexity, add 2 dashes now.

Slowly pour 4 cups chilled carbonated water into the glass over the back of a spoon or down the side to preserve carbonation. If you prefer a lighter sweetness, substitute up to 2 cups of the carbonated water with club soda or seltzer and adjust syrup to taste.

Gently stir once or twice with a long spoon — do not vigorously stir to avoid losing carbonation.

Taste and adjust: add more simple syrup (by tablespoons) for sweetness or a few more drops of citrus juice for brightness. If flavor is too strong, top with additional carbonated water.

Garnish with a lemon or lime wheel, a sprig of mint, or a maraschino cherry as desired.

Serve immediately while cold and fizzy. Enjoy within 10–15 minutes for best carbonation.

To store: separate syrup and carbonated water. Keep syrup refrigerated up to 2 weeks; keep carbonated water chilled and sealed.