Sprite Recipe

Combine sugar and water

In a small saucepan, combine 2 tablespoons granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons water. Stir to combine.

Dissolve sugar

Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly until the sugar is fully dissolved and the liquid is clear (about 2–3 minutes). Do not let it boil vigorously.

Add citrus

Remove from heat. Stir in 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice, 1 teaspoon lemon zest and 1 teaspoon lime zest. Allow the syrup to steep for 5 minutes so the citrus oils infuse. Taste and, if you prefer sweeter, add up to 1 teaspoon more sugar while still warm and stir to dissolve.

Strain and cool

Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into a small bowl or jar to remove zest and any solids. Let cool to room temperature (about 10 minutes) or chill briefly in the refrigerator for 5–10 minutes until cool.

Fill a tall glass with about 1 cup of ice cubes.

Pour the cooled citrus-sweet syrup over the ice (use all of it for a single serving; adjust to taste if you prefer lighter or stronger citrus flavor).

Add 2 cups cold carbonated water (club soda or seltzer) to the glass. Stir gently once or twice to combine the syrup with the soda while preserving carbonation.

If using, add 1/2 cup extra club soda for a lighter flavor and a taller drink.

Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to the drink if you want a subtle rounded sweetness reminiscent of commercial lemon-lime sodas. Stir gently to incorporate.

Garnish with a lemon or lime wheel on the rim and a fresh mint sprig, if desired.

Serve immediately so the drink remains fizzy.