Soda Recipe

Simple Syrup

Combine 0.25 cups sugar and 0.25 cups water in a small saucepan. Heat gently over medium-low heat, stirring until the sugar fully dissolves and the mixture is clear. Do not boil. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature (about 10 minutes). If you prefer to use granulated sugar directly, stir very well into chilled carbonated water, but simple syrup gives more consistent sweetness.

Measure the flavoring you want: for lemon-lime soda use 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice and 1 tbsp fresh lime juice; for cola use 2 tbsp cola extract. If making cola and you want more depth, stir in 1 tsp cold brewed coffee or 1 tsp caramel syrup plus 1/4 tsp vanilla extract. Add 1 tsp citric acid to either version to increase tartness and brightness. Stir the flavoring and citric acid into the cooled simple syrup until fully combined.

Chill a 1-liter bottle or pitcher of carbonated water. Pour 1 liter (1000 ml) of chilled carbonated water into a large pitcher or serving bottle. Add the prepared flavored syrup mixture (sugar + flavoring + citric acid) to the carbonated water slowly. Stir gently once with a long spoon to combine — avoid vigorous stirring to preserve carbonation.

Taste and adjust: if the soda is too sweet, add 1-2 tsp fresh lemon or lime juice (for lemon-lime) or a few drops of citric acid (for cola). If not sweet enough, dissolve and add an additional 1-2 tsp simple syrup. For stronger flavor, add small increments (1/2 tsp) of your chosen extract or juice, stirring gently and tasting between additions.

Fill glasses with ice if desired (about 1 cup of ice per 2 servings). Pour the soda over the ice. Garnish with lemon or lime slices and a sprig of mint for lemon-lime soda; for cola a lemon slice or no garnish is fine. Serve immediately while fizzy.