Homemade Craft Cola
This homemade craft cola recipe is a refreshing, natural alternative to store-bought sodas. Infused with citrus zest, warm spices, and sweetened with cane sugar, it offers a complex flavor profile. Perfect for customizing with your favorite ingredients, this recipe is easy to prepare and delivers a rich, bubbly drink that's both satisfying and healthier than traditional colas. Simply mix the flavorful syrup with sparkling water for a delightful homemade soda experience.
Ingredients
- 2 cups water
- 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
- 1 tablespoon grated lime zest
- 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
- 1 tablespoon dried lavender
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 vanilla bean split
- 2 cups cane sugar or honey/agave for alternatives
- 1/4 teaspoon citric acid
- Sparkling water for mixing
Instructions
- Prepare the Spices and Citrus: In a medium saucepan, combine the water, orange zest, lime zest, lemon zest, cinnamon sticks, coriander seeds, dried lavender, ginger, and vanilla bean.
- Simmer the Base: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the spices and citrus to infuse.
- Sweeten the Mixture: Add the cane sugar and stir until fully dissolved. Continue simmering for another 10 minutes.
- Strain and Cool: Remove the mixture from heat and strain it through a fine mesh sieve to remove the solids. Let the syrup cool to room temperature.
- Add Citric Acid: Once cooled, stir in the citric acid, which adds a slight tartness to the cola.
- Carbonation: To serve, mix 2-3 tablespoons of the cola syrup with a glass of chilled sparkling water. Adjust the amount based on your taste preference.
Notes
Nutrition Information:
- Servings: 8 glasses
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Calories per serving: 100 kcal