Sunkist Recipe

Make simple orange syrup

Combine 1 cup granulated sugar and 1 cup water in a small saucepan. Add the fresh orange zest, 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice, 1 teaspoon light corn syrup (if using), and a pinch of fine sea salt. Bring mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar fully dissolves (about 3–4 minutes). Do not boil vigorously; a gentle simmer to infuse zest is sufficient.

Once the sugar is dissolved and the syrup is fragrant with orange, remove the pan from heat and let steep for 10–15 minutes to intensify the orange flavor. Taste after 10 minutes and steep a bit longer if you want stronger orange aroma.

Strain the syrup through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a heatproof container to remove zest and any solids. Press lightly on the zest to extract juices, then discard solids. Cool the syrup to room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator until cold (about 20–30 minutes) if making ahead.

Assemble the Sunkist soda

Fill each serving glass (makes about 2 servings) with 1 cup ice. For each glass, add 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of the chilled orange syrup. Add 1/2 teaspoon fresh lemon juice to each glass to brighten the flavor.

Slowly pour 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) chilled club soda over the syrup and ice in each glass, stirring gently once with a long spoon to combine without losing too much carbonation. Taste and adjust: add up to 1 additional tablespoon syrup per glass if you prefer sweeter/stronger orange flavor.

If you prefer a lightly pulpy/juicier drink, muddle a thin orange slice in the bottom of the glass before adding ice, then proceed as above.

Garnish each glass with an orange wheel on the rim and a fresh mint sprig. Serve immediately while soda is fizzy.