Sep 02 2026
Restaurants›Smokehouse Social Barbecue›Cream Soda Recipe

Cream Soda Recipe

Inspired by Smokehouse Social Barbecue
Time20m
Serves1

Make Cream Soda Recipe in just 20m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Soda Base

Vanilla Ice Cream (optional)

Garnish

Homemade Vanilla Syrup (if making from scratch)

Method

Make Vanilla Syrup (optional, 10–15 minutes)

  1. 1

    Combine sugar and water

    In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup sugar and 1 cup water. If using a vanilla bean, split it lengthwise and scrape the seeds into the pan and add the pod.

  2. 2

    Heat until dissolved

    Heat over medium, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture just comes to a simmer (do not boil vigorously). This takes about 5 minutes.

  3. 3

    Infuse and cool

    Remove from heat, stir in 2 tsp pure vanilla extract (if using a vanilla bean, leave the pod in to continue infusing). Let cool to room temperature, then transfer to a jar and refrigerate. Syrup will keep refrigerated for up to 2 weeks.

Assemble Cream Soda (per 1 serving, 5 minutes)

  1. 4

    Chill glass and ingredients

    Make sure club soda/carbonated water is well chilled. If you plan to use ice cream, chill the serving glass briefly in the freezer for a slightly frosted presentation.

  2. 5

    Add vanilla syrup

    Pour 2 tablespoons vanilla syrup into a tall glass. If you prefer a sweeter or stronger vanilla flavor, adjust to 3 tablespoons.

  3. 6

    Add ice cream (optional)

    If making an ice-cream float style, add 2 scoops of vanilla ice cream to the glass. If you prefer a creamy soda without full scoops, add 2 teaspoons milk to the ice cream first and stir briefly to loosen, then add to the glass.

  4. 7

    Top with soda

    Slowly pour 2 cups chilled club soda (or carbonated water) down the side of the glass to preserve carbonation and control foaming. If you added ice cream, pour more gently to avoid overflow.

  5. 8

    Stir gently

    Give the drink a gentle stir with a long spoon to combine the vanilla syrup with the soda. If using ice cream, the mixture will become creamier as it melts.

  6. 9

    Garnish and serve

    Top with a maraschino cherry or fresh cherry and an optional mint sprig. Serve immediately with a straw and a long spoon if ice cream was used.

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