Soda Recipe

Make quick simple syrup

Combine 2 tablespoons granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons water in a small saucepan. Warm gently over low heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely (about 1–2 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature. This ensures sweetener blends into cold carbonated water smoothly.

Chill 4 cups carbonated water in the refrigerator beforehand if possible. Keep it cold so carbonation is preserved when mixing.

Measure your flavoring. For a single serving soda use either: 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice OR 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice OR 2 teaspoons fruit syrup/cordial OR 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. You can also combine small amounts (e.g., 1 tsp raspberry syrup + 1 tsp lemon juice) to create custom flavors.

In a tall glass or small pitcher, add the cooled simple syrup and the chosen flavoring(s). Stir briefly to mix. The syrup carries the flavor into the cold carbonated water.

Fill a serving glass with about 1 cup of ice cubes (optional). Pour the flavored syrup mixture over the ice/pitcher base.

Slowly pour 4 cups (about 1 liter) of cold carbonated water into the glass or pitcher over the back of a spoon or down the side to minimize foaming and carbonation loss. Stir gently once or twice — avoid vigorous stirring to preserve bubbles.

Taste and adjust: if sweeter soda is desired, add up to 1 additional teaspoon of simple syrup; if brighter/tart, add another 1/2 teaspoon lemon or lime juice; if more flavor intensity is wanted, add another 1 teaspoon fruit syrup.

Garnish with a mint sprig or citrus wheel if using. Serve immediately so the soda stays fizzy.