2 Liter Soda Recipe

Combine sugar and water

In a small saucepan, combine 120 ml water and 200 g granulated sugar.

Heat over medium heat, stirring frequently until the sugar fully dissolves and the liquid is clear. Do not boil vigorously; just bring to a gentle simmer if needed (about 3–5 minutes).

Remove from heat and let the syrup cool to room temperature. Transfer to a clean container and chill slightly if you have time (15–20 minutes).

Chill the carbonated water in the refrigerator until very cold. Cold water retains carbonation better when mixing.

In a large (at least 2 L) pitcher, pour in the chilled carbonated water (2000 ml). Work gently to preserve bubbles.

Measure 120–140 ml of the cooled simple syrup (from Make Simple Syrup). Add the syrup slowly to the carbonated water while stirring very gently with a long spoon. Taste after adding 120 ml and adjust up to 140 ml if you prefer sweeter soda. Note: total sugar target for a classic soda is about 100–110 g per liter; this recipe uses ~200 g total in the syrup and proportion added yields ~10–11% sugar by weight.

Add 30 ml fresh lemon juice to provide brightness and acidity. Stir gently to combine.

Add 10 ml cola flavoring or 2 tsp cola extract and 2 ml vanilla extract. If using citric acid for extra tang, dissolve 1 tsp citric acid in a tablespoon of warm water and add it now. Stir minimally—avoid vigorous stirring to keep carbonation.

Taste and adjust: if too sweet, add up to 30 ml more lemon juice; if too flat in flavor, add a touch more cola extract (start with 1 ml increments).

Fill glasses with ice (optional). Pour the soda gently into glasses to preserve fizz.

Garnish each glass with a lemon slice and a maraschino cherry if desired.

Store any leftover soda in a sealed bottle in the refrigerator and consume within 24 hours for best carbonation.