Sprite Recipe

Make the syrup

Combine 1 cup granulated sugar and 1 cup water in a small saucepan. Stir over medium heat until the sugar fully dissolves and the mixture just comes to a gentle simmer (about 3–4 minutes). Do not boil vigorously; you only need a clear syrup.

Remove the pan from heat. Stir in 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice, 1 teaspoon lemon zest and 1 teaspoon lime zest. Let the syrup cool to room temperature (about 15–20 minutes) so the citrus oils infuse the syrup.

Once cooled, strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean jar or bottle to remove zest and any pulp. Refrigerate until cold. Syrup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Combine soda and syrup

In a pitcher, combine 2 cups chilled sparkling water and 1 cup chilled club soda. Add 2–3 tablespoons of the chilled citrus syrup to start (for the ingredient quantities given, 2 tablespoons yields a lightly sweet soda; use 3 tablespoons for medium sweetness). Stir gently to combine without losing too much carbonation.

Taste and adjust sweetness and acidity: if you want it sweeter, add up to 1 more tablespoon syrup; if you want brighter citrus, add an extra 1/2 teaspoon fresh lemon or lime juice. Mix gently after adjustments.

If serving immediately over ice, fill glasses with about 1/2 cup ice (optional). Pour the prepared Sprite into glasses, dividing evenly.

Garnish each glass with a lemon slice, a lime slice, and 1–2 mint leaves if using. Serve cold.

Leftover syrup: keep refrigerated up to 2 weeks. For larger batches, scale syrup proportionally.