Sprite Recipe

Make simple citrus syrup

Combine 1 cup granulated sugar and 1 cup water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture comes just to a simmer (do not boil hard).

Add the lemon zest and lime zest to the syrup. Reduce heat to low and let the mixture gently infuse for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice, and 1 teaspoon citric acid until dissolved. If using, add 1 teaspoon lemon extract and 1/2 teaspoon lime extract to boost bright citrus aroma.

Allow the syrup to cool to room temperature (about 20–30 minutes) to let the flavors meld. Strain the syrup through a fine mesh sieve into a clean jar or bottle, pressing on the zest to extract flavored syrup. Discard solids. Refrigerate the syrup if not using immediately; it will keep 1–2 weeks refrigerated.

Mix Sprite-style soda

Fill four tall glasses with ice (about 2 cups total). For each 1 cup (approx. 240 ml) of chilled carbonated water, add 2 tablespoons of the prepared citrus syrup. For a single 8 oz (approx. 1 cup) serving: pour 1/2 cup (4 fl oz) chilled carbonated water into the glass, add 2 tablespoons syrup, then top with another 1/2 cup carbonated water. Gently stir once to combine — avoid vigorous stirring to keep carbonation.

Taste and adjust sweetness/brightness: add an extra 1/2 teaspoon citric acid to brighten, or an extra 1 teaspoon syrup to sweeten. If you used extracts, adjust in 1/4 teaspoon increments.

Garnish each glass with lemon and lime slices. Serve immediately while cold and fizzy.