Sprite Recipe

Make simple syrup

Combine the granulated sugar and 1 cup cold water in a small saucepan. Heat over medium, stirring constantly until sugar fully dissolves and the liquid is clear. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature (about 10–15 minutes).

Infuse with citrus zest

While the syrup is still warm (not hot), add the lemon zest and lime zest. Stir, cover, and let steep for 10 minutes to extract oils. After steeping, strain out the zest with a fine-mesh sieve and discard the solids. Chill the syrup in the refrigerator if not using immediately.

If using citric acid for extra sharpness, stir it into the cooled syrup until dissolved. Taste and adjust: add up to 1/2 tsp more citric acid for a brighter, more soda-like tang.

In a large pitcher, combine the chilled carbonated water with the cooled citrus simple syrup. Start by adding 1/3 cup of syrup, stir gently to combine, and taste. Add more syrup in 1–2 tablespoon increments until you reach the desired sweetness and lemon-lime balance. The recipe will generally use about 1/2 to 2/3 cup syrup (equivalent to the 1 cup sugar dissolved in 1 cup water diluted by the carbonated water) to achieve a Sprite-like sweetness when 4 cups carbonated water are used.

Stir in the fresh lemon and lime juices. Taste and adjust - add another 1/2 tbs lemon or lime juice if you want brighter citrus notes.

Fill four serving glasses with 1/2 cup ice each (about 2 cups total ice used for the batch). Pour the soda over the ice, dividing evenly. Garnish each glass with a lemon or lime slice and a mint sprig if desired.

Serve immediately while fizzy. If not serving right away, keep the mixed soda chilled and gently re-carbonate (if available) or pour just before serving to retain carbonation.