Summer just got a whole lot cooler with these 18 refreshing soda recipes that will quench your thirst and satisfy your sweet tooth. As the mercury rises, there’s nothing like cracking open a cold glass of homemade soda to beat the heat. And the best part? You can make them all in the comfort of your own home!
From fruity flavors like strawberry basil and watermelon lime, to spicy options like pomegranate ginger and grapefruit rosemary, we’ve got a recipe for every taste bud. Plus, many of these recipes use natural sweeteners and ingredients, so you can feel good about what you’re putting in your body. So why not try something new this summer and make some delicious homemade soda?
Homemade Cherry Cola
Create a refreshing twist on classic cola with this simple recipe that combines the sweetness of cherry and vanilla flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup cherry syrup (or 1/2 cup cherry juice)
– 1/2 teaspoon natural vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon cola nut powder (optional, but recommended for a more authentic flavor)
– Carbonated water or soda maker
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine water and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in cherry syrup or juice, vanilla extract, and cola nut powder (if using). Let cool to room temperature.
3. Strain the mixture into a large pitcher or jug to remove any sediment.
4. Add carbonated water or use a soda maker to create the fizz.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None, as this recipe doesn’t require cooking.
Enjoy your homemade cherry cola!
Sparkling Lemon-Lime Soda
Elevate your beverage game with this refreshing homemade sparkling lemon-lime soda recipe. A perfect blend of citrusy and fizzy, it’s a delightful drink for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4-5 lemons)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice (about 2 limes)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups sparkling water
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, mix together the water and citrus juices.
2. Add the sugar and stir until it’s fully dissolved.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, add the sparkling water and stir gently.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None (no cooking required)
Vanilla Cream Soda
This refreshing soda recipe combines the sweetness of vanilla with a hint of creaminess, perfect for hot summer days or as a unique twist on traditional sodas. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create this delicious treat at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (chilled)
– Soda water
Instructions:
1. Combine the water, sugar, and corn syrup in a medium saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Let the mixture cool completely.
5. Once cooled, stir in the chilled heavy cream until well combined.
6. Add soda water to the mixture and stir gently.
7. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Raspberry Ginger Ale
This recipe combines the sweetness of raspberries with the spicy kick of ginger to create a unique and revitalizing drink. Perfect for hot summer days or as a pick-me-up any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1/2 cup fresh ginger, peeled and sliced thinly
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, muddle the raspberries with a spoon or muddler to release their juice.
2. Add the sliced ginger and stir gently to combine.
3. Pour in the water and add sugar if desired.
4. Stir well to combine and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, fill glasses with ice and pour the Raspberry Ginger Ale over the ice.
Cooking Time: None required! Simply chill and serve.
Orange Creamsicle Soda
Brighten up your day with this refreshing homemade soda that captures the classic flavors of an orange creamsicle. This recipe is a perfect blend of citrusy and creamy, making it a great alternative to store-bought sodas.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1/2 teaspoon orange zest
– 1/4 teaspoon citric acid (optional)
– Carbonated water
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and 2 cups of water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the orange juice, heavy cream or half-and-half, and orange zest.
3. Let the mixture cool to room temperature.
4. Strain the mixture into a large pitcher or container.
5. Add carbonated water (about 1 cup per 2 cups of liquid) and stir well.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Root Beer Float
Classic Root Beer Float Recipe
A nostalgic treat that’s perfect for hot summer days or anytime you need a pick-me-up, this root beer float recipe is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. With just two ingredients, you can’t go wrong!
Ingredients:
– 2 scoops of vanilla ice cream
– 1 cup of root beer
Instructions:
1. Scoop the vanilla ice cream into a tall glass.
2. Pour 1 cup of root beer over the ice cream.
3. Stir gently to combine, if desired.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! Just assemble and serve.
This classic recipe is quick, easy, and delicious. You can’t beat the combination of creamy vanilla ice cream and fizzy root beer for a treat that’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. So go ahead, grab a glass, and enjoy this nostalgic favorite!
Strawberry Basil Soda
Quench your thirst with this unique and flavorful soda recipe that combines the sweetness of strawberries with the brightness of basil. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a refreshing pick-me-up any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups water
– Carbonated water (club soda or sparkling water)
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a blender, puree the strawberries until smooth.
2. Add the basil leaves and blend until well combined.
3. In a large pitcher, mix together the strawberry-basil puree and sugar until dissolved.
4. Add the water and stir to combine.
5. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
6. Just before serving, add carbonated water and stir gently.
7. Serve over ice and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep), 30 minutes (chilling)
Blueberry Mint Soda
This refreshing soda recipe combines the sweetness of blueberries with the cooling sensation of mint, perfect for hot summer days or as a unique twist on traditional soft drinks.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup lemon juice
– Carbonated water (soda water)
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine blueberries and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens slightly.
2. Remove from heat and stir in mint leaves. Let steep for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large pitcher or jug. Discard solids.
4. Add lemon juice and stir well.
5. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
6. To serve, pour chilled soda mixture over ice and top with carbonated water.
Cooking Time: None (assembling only)
Pineapple Coconut Soda
Add a touch of tropical flavor to your day with this refreshing pineapple coconut soda recipe. Made with just a few simple ingredients, this fizzy drink is perfect for hot summer days or as a unique addition to your next gathering.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup pineapple juice
• 1/2 cup coconut water
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon citric acid (optional)
• Sparkling water
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine pineapple juice and coconut water.
2. Add sugar and stir until dissolved.
3. If desired, add citric acid to balance the flavors.
4. Chill mixture in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
5. Just before serving, add sparkling water and stir gently.
Cooking Time: None (preparation time: 10-15 minutes)
Grapefruit Rosemary Soda
Elevate your soda game with this refreshing twist on a classic drink. The tartness of grapefruit is perfectly balanced by the herbal notes of rosemary, creating a unique and invigorating flavor experience.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup sugar
– 2 cups grapefruit juice (fresh or bottled)
– 1/4 cup fresh rosemary leaves
– Seltzer water
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine water and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in grapefruit juice and rosemary leaves. Let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large pitcher or jug. Discard the solids.
4. Add seltzer water to taste, adjusting the level of fizziness to your liking.
Cooking Time: None required!
Peach Iced Tea Soda
Beat the heat with this sweet and tangy twist on classic soda! This peachy keen recipe combines the warmth of tea with the fizziness of soda, perfect for a summer gathering or a relaxing evening at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 quart brewed peach tea (cooled)
– 1 cup club soda
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and sugar, dissolved)
– Sliced peaches for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the cooled peach tea and sugar. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Add the simple syrup and stir to combine.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, stir in the club soda.
5. Taste and adjust sweetness as needed.
6. Serve over ice with sliced peaches as a garnish, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready to serve in under an hour.
Watermelon Lime Soda
This sweet and tangy soda is perfect for hot summer days. With the combination of watermelon puree, lime juice, and sparkling water, you’ll be sipping on a refreshing treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cubed seedless watermelon
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups sparkling water
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a blender, puree the watermelon until smooth.
2. In a large pitcher, mix together the watermelon puree and lime juice.
3. Add the sugar and stir until dissolved.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
5. Just before serving, stir in the sparkling water.
6. Fill glasses with ice and pour the soda over the ice.
7. Stir gently and garnish with a lime wedge or watermelon slice, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Blackberry Sage Soda
Elevate your summer beverage game with this unique and flavorful Blackberry Sage Soda recipe, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a relaxing evening at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh blackberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup sparkling water
– 1/4 cup brewed sage tea (cooled)
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the blackberries and sugar until smooth.
2. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove seeds and pulp.
3. Add the lime juice and stir well.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
5. To serve, combine the chilled blackberry mixture with sparkling water and brewed sage tea in a large pitcher or individual glasses filled with ice.
Cooking Time: None ( Assembly only)
Lavender Honey Soda
Experience the sweet and floral taste of lavender infused with the warmth of honey in this refreshing soda recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup dried lavender buds
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1/2 cup lemon-lime soda (such as Sprite or 7-Up)
– Ice cubes
– Fresh lavender sprigs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine water and sugar. Heat over low heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and add dried lavender buds. Let it steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large pitcher or jug. Discard the lavender buds.
4. Add honey and stir until dissolved.
5. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
6. Just before serving, pour in lemon-lime soda and stir gently.
7. Serve over ice and garnish with fresh lavender sprigs, if desired.
Cooking Time: None (preparation only)
Apple Cinnamon Soda
Create a delicious and fizzy drink that combines the warmth of cinnamon with the sweetness of apples. This recipe is perfect for a cozy afternoon or as a unique addition to your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups apple juice
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cinnamon stick, broken into pieces
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Club soda, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the apple juice and water. Heat over medium heat until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Add the broken cinnamon stick and ground cinnamon to the pot. Stir to combine.
3. Remove from heat and let steep for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Strain the mixture into a large pitcher or individual glasses. Top with club soda.
5. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with additional cinnamon sticks if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Pomegranate Ginger Soda
Refresh your senses with this unique and flavorful soda recipe that combines the sweetness of pomegranates with the spicy warmth of ginger.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed pomegranate juice
– 1/4 cup fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 teaspoon citric acid (optional)
– Carbonated water (club soda or sparkling water)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the water and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add the pomegranate juice and sliced ginger to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large pitcher or jug. Discard the solids.
4. Allow the mixture to cool slightly before refrigerating it for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. To serve, mix in carbonated water (1:1 ratio) and adjust to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Chocolate Cherry Soda
This sweet treat combines the richness of chocolate with the tartness of cherry soda, creating a unique and refreshing drink perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create this fizzy fusion at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups sparkling water
– 1 cup cherry juice
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
– Cherry syrup or maraschino cherries for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, whisk together the cocoa powder and sugar until well combined.
2. Add the cherry juice and stir until smooth.
3. Pour in the sparkling water and stir gently to combine.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness as needed.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
6. Garnish with a splash of cherry syrup or a maraschino cherry, if desired.
Cooking Time: None!
Spiced Chai Soda
Elevate your beverage game with this warm and comforting Spiced Chai Soda recipe, perfect for cozying up on a chilly day. This flavorful drink combines the aromatic spices of traditional chai with the effervescence of soda.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup water
– 2 teaspoons loose-leaf black tea or 4 tea bags
– 1 cinnamon stick (about 2 inches long)
– 6-8 whole cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional, for some heat)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 liter club soda
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine water, tea or tea bags, cinnamon stick, cloves, ginger, and cardamom.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
3. Strain the mixture into a large pitcher or jug. Discard solids.
4. Add sugar and stir until dissolved.
5. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
6. Just before serving, add club soda and stir gently.
7. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Summary
Beat the heat this summer with these refreshing soda recipes! From fruity flavors like Strawberry Basil and Raspberry Ginger Ale to creamy concoctions like Vanilla Cream Soda, there’s something for everyone. Create unique drinks at home with simple ingredients and enjoy the perfect glass on a warm day. Try making a Root Beer Float or a Pineapple Coconut Soda for a taste of summer in every sip. With 18 recipes to choose from, you’ll never get bored! So grab your favorite glass and get started!
Leave a Reply