Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup fresh strawberries or raspberries, hulled and quartered
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1/2 teaspoon alcohol-free vanilla extract
- 2 cups chilled sparkling water or club soda
- 2 cups ice cubes
- Fresh fruit slices or berries for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Combine the fruit, sugar, and water in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves and the fruit softens, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and mash the fruit with a fork or potato masher.
- Step 2: Strain the fruit mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, pressing down on the solids to extract all the juice. Discard the pulp. Allow the fruit syrup to cool completely.
- Step 3: In a separate small bowl, gently whisk together the heavy cream and vanilla powder until just combined. Do not over-whisk into whipped cream.
- Step 4: To assemble, fill two tall glasses with ice cubes. Divide the cooled fruit syrup evenly between the glasses, about 2-3 tablespoons per glass.
- Step 5: Slowly pour the chilled sparkling water over the syrup and ice in each glass. Gently stir once or twice. Finish by drizzling the vanilla cream over the top of each drink, allowing it to marble slightly. Garnish with fresh fruit if desired and serve immediately.
Notes
- Prepare the fruit syrup up to 3 days ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, making quick assembly a breeze whenever you crave a refreshing drink.
- For the best fizzy and creamy texture, always assemble your soda just before serving, as pre-mixing the sparkling water or cream will diminish its delightful freshness.
- Transform your backyard gathering or brunch into a special occasion by serving these vibrant sodas, offering extra fresh fruit slices for guests to personalize their garnish.
- Remember to gently whisk the heavy cream and vanilla until *just* combined; over-whisking will create stiff whipped cream that won't achieve that lovely marbling effect in your drink.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 fl oz (355ml)
- Calories: 205
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Protein: 36g