Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsChester's Kitchen & Bar1919 Root Beer Recipe

1919 Root Beer Recipe

Time1h
Serves8

Make 1919 Root Beer Recipe in just 1h . Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

Was this page helpful?

Help improve this recipe for others.

Send this recipe to your inbox.

We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.

Ingredients

Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Root Beer Base

Carbonation

Optional Garnish

Method

Prepare Root Beer Base

  1. 1

    Steep the Herbs

    In a large pot, combine the sassafras root, sarsaparilla root, wintergreen leaves, licorice root, cinnamon sticks, and cloves. Pour in 8 cups of water and bring to a boil over medium heat.

  2. 2

    Simmer

    Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together.

  3. 3

    Strain the Mixture

    After simmering, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a large bowl, discarding the solids.

  4. 4

    Sweeten

    Return the strained liquid to the pot and add brown sugar and vanilla extract. Stir over low heat until the sugar is fully dissolved.

  5. 5

    Cool Down

    Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.

Combine & Serve

  1. 6

    Mix with Carbonated Water

    Once the root beer base is cool, mix it with 4 cups of carbonated water in a large pitcher. Stir gently to combine.

  2. 7

    Serve

    Pour the homemade root beer into glasses over ice if desired. Optionally, top with a scoop of ice cream and a dollop of whipped cream for a classic float.

More from Chester's Kitchen & Bar