Name: Cherry Vanilla Italian Soda
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup cherry syrup; 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup club soda or sparkling water; 1/4 cup half-and-half or heavy cream (optional for creaminess); Ice cubes; Whipped cream (optional, for topping); Maraschino cherry (optional, for garnish)

Jump to Recipe

This Cherry Vanilla Italian Soda is a refreshing and vibrant beverage that combines the sweet and tangy taste of cherries with the rich, creamy notes of vanilla. Made with simple ingredients and customizable to your preference, this drink is perfect for hot summer days, entertaining guests, or simply treating yourself to something delightful at home. Its fizzy texture and colorful presentation also make it a fun and elegant addition to any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This homemade Cherry Vanilla Italian Soda stands out for its bold flavors and ease of preparation. It’s not only more affordable than store-bought versions but also allows you to control the sweetness and intensity of flavor. Whether you’re serving this to children or dressing it up for adults with a splash of cream, this drink caters to a wide variety of preferences. Plus, it’s caffeine-free, making it a perfect choice for all ages.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cherry syrup (homemade or store-bought)
Vanilla syrup
Sparkling water or club soda
Ice
Optional: Half and half or heavy cream for a creamier version
Optional: Maraschino cherries and whipped cream for garnish

Directions

Fill a tall glass with ice.
Add cherry syrup and vanilla syrup to the glass.
Slowly pour sparkling water over the syrups, filling the glass nearly to the top.
Stir gently to combine.
If desired, top with a splash of half and half or heavy cream for a creamy texture.
Garnish with a maraschino cherry and a dollop of whipped cream before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields 1 serving and can easily be scaled up for multiple servings.
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: None
Total time: 5 minutes

Variations

Creamy Cherry Vanilla Soda: Add 1–2 tablespoons of heavy cream or half and half before serving.
Low-Sugar Option: Use sugar-free syrups and club soda to reduce calories.
Cherry Lime Soda: Add a splash of fresh lime juice for a tangy twist.
Boozy Version: Add a small amount of cherry liqueur or vanilla vodka for an adult version.
Fresh Cherry Garnish: Muddle a few fresh cherries at the bottom of the glass for added texture and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Italian sodas are best served fresh and do not store well once mixed, as the carbonation quickly fades. However, you can prepare the syrups in advance and refrigerate them in airtight containers for up to 1 week. When ready to serve, simply combine with ice and sparkling water.

FAQs

What is an Italian soda?

An Italian soda is a beverage made by combining flavored syrup with carbonated water, often served over ice. It can be topped with cream to make it richer.

Can I make this soda dairy-free?

Yes, simply omit the cream or use a dairy-free alternative like almond or oat milk if you prefer a creamy version.

Is it possible to make my own cherry syrup?

Absolutely. You can make cherry syrup by simmering fresh or frozen cherries with sugar and water, then straining the mixture to remove solids.

Can I use regular soda instead of sparkling water?

It’s not recommended, as regular soda already contains sweeteners and may alter the intended flavor balance.

How can I make this drink less sweet?

Use less syrup or choose sugar-free versions of cherry and vanilla syrups to reduce the sweetness.

Is this drink caffeinated?

No, this Cherry Vanilla Italian Soda is completely caffeine-free.

Can I use flavored sparkling water?

Yes, but keep in mind it may affect the final taste. Plain sparkling water ensures the cherry and vanilla flavors shine through.

What kind of glass is best for serving?

Tall glasses, such as highball or Collins glasses, are ideal for serving Italian sodas.

Can I use whipped cream from a can?

Yes, canned whipped cream is convenient and works well for garnishing this drink.

Is this drink suitable for kids?

Yes, it’s a kid-friendly beverage, especially if you skip the optional alcohol and use dairy or non-dairy cream for fun.

Conclusion

This Cherry Vanilla Italian Soda is an easy-to-make, customizable drink that brings a splash of fun and flavor to any setting. Whether you prefer it light and fizzy or rich and creamy, this recipe can be tailored to suit any taste. Enjoy it as a refreshing treat on a warm day or as a colorful addition to your next gathering.