Guaraná Recipe

Combine ingredients

In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup water and 1 cup granulated sugar. Stir gently to distribute the sugar before heating.

Dissolve sugar

Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the sugar fully dissolves and the mixture reaches a gentle simmer (do not boil vigorously). This should take about 3–5 minutes.

Add guaraná and flavor

Lower the heat to low. Whisk in 2 tablespoons guaraná powder or concentrated guaraná extract until fully incorporated and smooth. Add 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and stir for 30–60 seconds to combine.

Simmer briefly and cool

Let the syrup maintain a bare simmer for 1 minute to marry flavors, then remove from heat. Let the guaraná syrup cool to room temperature (about 20–30 minutes). If using guaraná powder and you notice small undissolved bits, strain the syrup through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean container to remove solids.

Refrigerate (optional)

For best clarity and flavor, refrigerate the cooled syrup for at least 30 minutes. The syrup can be stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Prepare glasses

Fill four tall glasses with ice cubes (about 1/2 cup ice per glass). If you prefer a chilled glass, pre-chill them in the freezer for 10–15 minutes.

Mix drink

For each serving, add 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of the prepared guaraná syrup into a glass over ice. Top with 1 cup (250 ml) cold carbonated water. Gently stir once or twice to combine. Taste and adjust: add more syrup for a sweeter, stronger flavor or more soda for a lighter drink.

Garnish and serve

Garnish each glass with a lime wheel and a mint sprig if desired. Serve immediately with a straw or stirring spoon.

Batch preparation note

The recipe as written yields about 4 servings. If you want to make a larger pitcher, combine 1 cup guaraná syrup with 4 cups cold soda water in a pitcher, stir gently, then add ice and garnishes to individual glasses.