High Fructose Corn Syrup Free Classic Grapefruit Sparkling Water
Bright, citrusy, and genuinely refreshing, this homemade sparkling drink is the kind of thing that makes you wonder why you ever reached for a can. The secret is a quick grapefruit syrup made from real sugar, fresh juice, and zest ā simmered just long enough to dissolve and infuse, then strained smooth before meeting a bottle of chilled sparkling water. Store-bought flavored sodas and sparkling drinks are notorious for sneaking in corn syrup or other sweeteners, so making your own puts you completely in control of what goes into the glass. The zest steeps into the syrup during cooling, which pulls out that aromatic, slightly bitter edge that makes grapefruit so distinctive and complex. Stirring gently when combining the syrup and sparkling water keeps the bubbles lively, so every pour stays effervescent right down to the last sip. Serve it over ice with a grapefruit wedge on the rim and it looks as good as anything you'd order at a nice brunch spot.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more āIngredients
4 servings
For the grapefruit syrup
- Ā½ cup granulated sugar
- Ā½ cup water
- 1 large grapefruit, zested juice and juiced (about Ā¾ cup juice)
To assemble
- 1 bottle (32 oz) sparkling water, chilled
- ice, for serving
For serving
- grapefruit slices or wedges, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Combine the sugar, water, grapefruit zest, and grapefruit juice in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is fully dissolved, about 3ā4 minutes. Do not boil.
- 2
Remove from heat and let the syrup steep for 15ā20 minutes, until cooled to room temperature and the zest flavor has infused.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!