Orange Fanta Recipe

Make simple orange syrup

In a small saucepan combine 1 cup granulated sugar and 1/2 cup water. Add the fresh orange zest. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring until all the sugar dissolves (about 3–4 minutes). Once dissolved, reduce heat to low and simmer 2 more minutes to infuse the zest. Remove from heat and let steep 10 minutes.

After steeping, strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into a heatproof bowl or jar, pressing on the zest to extract flavor. Discard the zest. Allow the syrup to cool to room temperature (or chill briefly in the fridge) before proceeding.

Combine citrus and flavorings

To the cooled syrup add 3/4 cup fresh strained orange juice and 1 tsp fresh lemon juice. Stir in 1/4 tsp orange extract and 1/2 tsp citric acid until fully dissolved. If you prefer a brighter color, add 1 drop of food-grade orange or natural color and stir. Taste and adjust: if it tastes too sweet, add up to 1/4 tsp more citric acid; if too tart, add 1–2 tsp simple syrup (or a pinch of sugar) dissolved into the mix.

Chill this orange concentrate in the refrigerator while preparing glassware and carbonation. The concentrate can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 week.

Assemble the soda (single serving)

Fill a 16-oz (about 2 cups) glass with 1/2 cup ice cubes. Add 4 oz (1/2 cup) of the orange concentrate (adjust to taste for strength). Slowly pour 1 cup (8 oz) very cold carbonated water into the glass over the back of a spoon to preserve bubbles. Gently stir once or twice to combine, avoiding vigorous stirring which will flatten the drink.

Garnish with an orange slice and an optional mint sprig. Serve immediately.

Batch mixing (for multiple servings)

For a larger batch, mix 1 part orange concentrate to 3–4 parts chilled carbonated water depending on desired intensity. Combine in a chilled pitcher just before serving to retain carbonation. Do not pre-mix and store for long, as the soda will lose fizz.