Lactose Free Classic Grapefruit Sparkling Water
Bright, citrusy, and endlessly refreshing, this homemade sparkling drink is the kind of thing that makes a plain glass of water feel like a special occasion. The secret is a quick grapefruit syrup made by gently warming sugar, water, fresh juice, and zest together ā no boiling needed ā so the flavor stays vibrant and floral rather than bitter or flat. Steeping the zest for a full 15 to 20 minutes pulls out every bit of that aromatic citrus oil before you strain it away, leaving behind a beautifully clear, golden syrup. Everything in this recipe is naturally free of dairy and lactose, so there's nothing to double-check on a label or swap out. Stirring the syrup gently into chilled sparkling water keeps the bubbles lively, and a garnish of fresh grapefruit slices makes it look like something you'd order at a nice brunch spot. It's a great make-ahead option too ā the syrup can be prepared in advance and kept in the fridge until you're ready to pour.
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Learn more āIngredients
4 servings
For the grapefruit syrup
- Ā½ cup granulated sugar
- Ā½ cup water
- 1 large grapefruit, zested 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.
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