Sprite Recipe

Combine sugar and water

In a small saucepan combine 1 cup granulated sugar and 1/2 cup water.

Heat gently over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture is clear (do not boil). This takes about 3–5 minutes.

Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly for 2–3 minutes.

While the syrup is still warm (but not hot), stir in 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 2 tbsp fresh lime juice, 1/2 tsp lemon zest and 1/2 tsp lime zest until incorporated.

If using, add 1 tsp light corn syrup or agave and a pinch of fine salt to round the flavor and mouthfeel. Stir to combine.

Taste the concentrated syrup — it should be distinctly lemon-lime and sweet. If it tastes too sharp, add up to 1 tsp more sugar (dissolve briefly) or a little more corn syrup for body.

Strain the syrup through a fine mesh sieve into a clean container to remove zest and any solids. Let the syrup cool to room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes.

Fill two serving glasses with equal amounts of ice (about 1/2 cup ice per glass).

Add 2 tablespoons of the chilled lemon-lime syrup to each glass (this recipe yields roughly 8 tbsp syrup; adjust to taste).

Pour 2 cups chilled club soda into each glass over the syrup and ice. Stir gently once to combine without losing too much carbonation.

Garnish each glass with a lemon or lime slice. Taste and adjust: for a sweeter, less tart drink add 1 tsp simple syrup; for stronger citrus add 1/2 tsp fresh lime or lemon juice.

Store any leftover chilled lemon-lime syrup in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Keep club soda chilled and combine just before serving to preserve carbonation.