How to Make a Refreshing Homemade Soda with Syrup
Nothing beats a refreshing homemade soda, and with just a few ingredients, you can craft a delightful drink using your own flavorful syrup. This simple recipe lets you customize your soda to suit your taste with endless combinations of juices and spices. Here’s how to create this fizzy treat.
Ingredients
For the Syrup:
- 1 cup juice (any kind)
- 1 cup sugar
- Whole spices such as cinnamon, cloves, or sliced ginger (optional)
For the Soda:
- ½ cup club soda or carbonated water
- 3 Tbsp syrup
- 1 Tbsp half & half
- 3 ice cubes or ¼ cup crushed ice
Yields: 1 serving
Directions
To Make the Syrup:
In a saucepan, combine juice and sugar. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it boils and the sugar dissolves completely. Transfer the syrup to a clean bottle and refrigerate. It will last up to six months if unopened or two weeks after opening. For an extra twist, add whole spices to the jar when bottling the syrup. To extend shelf life, mix in 1/8 tsp of ascorbic acid per pint of syrup for storage up to one year unopened.
To Make the Soda:
Combine club soda, syrup, and half & half in a glass. Add ice, stir gently, and garnish with whipped cream and a cherry if desired. For larger glasses, simply double the recipe.
For a vegan-friendly version, skip the half & half or use a non-dairy creamy alternative like almond or coconut milk.
This customizable drink is perfect for any occasion—experiment with different juices and spices for a personalized twist!