Sprite Recipe

Chill and prepare

Chill the carbonated water thoroughly in the refrigerator so it is cold when assembled (ideally under 40°F / 4°C). Keep simple syrup and citrus juices cold as well.

If you do not have ready-made simple syrup: make it by combining equal parts granulated sugar and water (for this recipe, 1/2 cup sugar + 1/2 cup water). Heat gently while stirring until sugar dissolves, then cool to room temperature and refrigerate. Use 4 tablespoons for this recipe.

In a large measuring pitcher, combine the cold carbonated water, fresh lemon juice (2 tbs), fresh lime juice (2 tbs), and 4 tbs simple syrup. Stir gently with a long spoon 4–6 strokes to combine — avoid vigorous stirring to preserve carbonation.

Prepare citrus oils: hold a strip of lemon peel over the pitcher (or directly over the serving glass) with the outer peel facing down and gently bend/express it toward the liquid to release essential oils. Repeat with the lime peel. Optionally rub the peel around the rim of the glass for added aroma.

Fill a tall serving glass with about 1 cup of ice. Pour the assembled Sprite mixture slowly into the glass over the ice to minimize foaming and loss of carbonation.

Garnish with a lemon or lime wheel on the rim or floated on top. Taste and adjust: if you prefer sweeter, add 1 tsp simple syrup; for brighter citrus, add 1 tsp more lemon or lime juice. Stir gently with a straw or bar spoon to incorporate adjustments.

Serve immediately while cold and fizzy.