Carbonated Water with Cherries and Sugar

Introduction

You cook the cherries with water and white sugar until the liquid reduces to a thick syrup, then stretch it with carbonated water at a 1:5 ratio. The result is a simple homemade cherry soda that takes little hands-on work and fits well for a small batch drink or make-ahead syrup.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 3

Ingredients

• 1 cup (240 ml) water
• 20 frozen pitted cherries
• ½ cup (120 ml) white sugar
• Carbonated water, as needed

Instructions

1. Combine the water, cherries, and sugar in a pot.
2. Boil the mixture until it becomes a thick syrup.
3. Strain the mixture, and discard the solids. This should yield about 5 oz (150 ml) syrup.
4. To make the finished soda, mix 1 volume of syrup with 5 volumes of carbonated water.

Variations

• Replace the 20 frozen pitted cherries with fresh pitted cherries when they are in season. You get a similar result, though the syrup may taste slightly less concentrated.
• Swap part of the cherries for raspberries or blackberries. That shifts the soda toward a sharper, tarter berry flavor.
• Change the mixing ratio in the final step to 1:4 for a stronger, sweeter drink or 1:6 for a lighter soda. This affects sweetness and cherry intensity more than the syrup itself.
• Add a small squeeze of lemon juice to the finished glass. It brightens the cherry flavor and makes the soda taste less sweet.

Tips for Success

• Boil the cherry mixture until it looks syrupy but not candy-thick; it will continue to thicken slightly as it cools.
• Strain the syrup while it is still hot. It will pass through the strainer more easily and yield a clearer soda.
• Measure after straining and aim for about 5 oz (150 ml) syrup. If you have much more than that, simmer it a bit longer.
• Add the carbonated water just before serving so the drink keeps its fizz.
• Chill the syrup before mixing if you want a colder soda without watering it down with extra ice.

Storage and Reheating

Store the cherry syrup in a clean glass jar or other airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze it in a freezer-safe container or ice cube tray for up to 3 months.

The mixed soda does not store well once combined because the carbonation fades. If the chilled syrup becomes very thick, warm it gently in the microwave in short bursts or on the stovetop over low heat just until pourable.

FAQ

Can you use fresh cherries instead of frozen?

Yes. Pit them first and use the same amount; the flavor will be similar, though frozen fruit often gives a slightly deeper syrup.

How do you know the syrup is ready?

It should reduce to a thick, pourable consistency and lightly coat a spoon. The recipe also notes that you should end up with about 5 oz (150 ml) after straining.

Do you need to strain out the cherries?

Yes, if you want a smooth syrup that mixes cleanly into carbonated water. Leaving the solids in makes the drink cloudier and adds sediment.

Can you make it less sweet?

Yes. The simplest option is to use less syrup per glass when you mix the soda, which lowers the sweetness without changing the syrup itself.