Fountain Soda Recipe

Chill glass and ingredients

If possible, chill the serving glass in the refrigerator or freezer for 5–10 minutes. Ensure carbonated water and syrup are cold.

Place 1 cup of cubed ice into the chilled glass, leaving room at the top for liquid and fizz.

Measure 2 fl oz of your chosen soda syrup and pour it over the ice. For typical fountain strength use the stated ratio (about 6:1 carbonated water to syrup); adjust to taste if you prefer sweeter or lighter.

Slowly pour 12 fl oz of cold carbonated water down the side of the glass or over the back of a spoon to minimize foaming. Pour gently until the glass is nearly full, leaving about 1/2 inch headspace.

Stir very gently one time with a long spoon to combine syrup and carbonated water without losing too much carbonation.

If using a garnish, place a lemon or lime wedge on the rim, or drop a maraschino cherry or orange slice into the drink. Serve immediately with a straw.

For a cream soda: add 1 tablespoon heavy cream or half-and-half to the syrup in the glass before adding carbonated water. Combine gently as above. Note: adding dairy will reduce some carbonation and change texture.

For extra flavor: add up to 1/2 tablespoon additional flavored syrup (vanilla, cherry, etc.) or about 1/2 teaspoon fresh citrus juice to the syrup before pouring carbonated water. Adjust to taste and stir gently.