Homemade Cola
This homemade cola recipe is a simple blend of citrus and spices with sparkling water for a less ultra-processed version of your favorite soda. The syrup base makes between 4-6 servings.
Servings: 6 drinks
Ingredients
- 1 large orange
- 1 lemon
- 1 lime
- 1 cup brown sugar lightly packed
- 1 ¼ cups water
- 3 tablespoons freshly grated ginger root does not need to be peeled
- 1/2 cinnamon stick
- 1/4 teaspoon coriander
- ⅛ teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 pinch sea salt
- 16 ounces sparkling water
Instructions
- Using a peeler, remove the peel from the orange, lemon, and lime. Add all the ingredients except the sparkling water to a small to medium sized pot. Bring everything to a boil over medium high heat, then turn the heat down to maintain a simmer for 15 minutes. Remove the cinnamon stick. Turn off the heat and let cool for 15 minutes.
- Strain the syrup through a fine mesh strainer into a jar to use as a base. You will end up with around 1 cup of syrup. Pour about ¼ cup of syrup over ice and top with sparkling water - can use more or less depending on your preference for flavor and sweetness. Stir to combine. Add freshly squeezed lime juice on top (can garnish with a slice of lime).
Notes
- If you prefer a stronger citrus flavor, you can grate the citrus peels instead of peeling.
- Some readers reported success with using coconut sugar instead of brown sugar. I personally think the brown sugar is a more accurate flavor.
- Cola syrup will store well in the fridge for up to 7-10 days.
Nutrition
Serving: 2ounces | Calories: 135kcal | Carbohydrates: 33g | Protein: 0.4g | Fat: 0.1g | Saturated Fat: 0.03g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.03g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.01g | Sodium: 36mg | Potassium: 103mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 25g | Vitamin A: 11IU | Vitamin C: 13mg | Calcium: 48mg | Iron: 0.5mg
