Italian Cream Soda

Homemade Berry Syrups

• • 1 part water

  • 1 part granulated sugar

  • 2 parts berries

Cook's Note: Although I've only made this with berries, I'm sure it would also work well with other fruits like peaches, mangoes and cherries. If using fruit with a high water content like watermelon, I would suggest adding less water.

Combine the water and sugar in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over high heat and stir to dissolve the sugar. Add the berries, return to a boil, then reduce to medium heat. Boil for 10 minutes. Reduce to low and simmer for 10 more minutes.

Remove from the heat; pour through a mesh strainer, pressing the fruit with the back of a spoon to extract all the liquid. Store in the refrigerator in a glass jar until chilled and ready to use.

Yields 1 1/2 cups syrup (if using 1 cup water, 1 cup sugar and 2 cups berries)

Recipe from Curly Girl Kitchen

Italian Cream Sodas

• • ice

  • 1-2 tablespoons syrup

  • club soda

  • splash of cream, half 'n' half or whole milk

Fill a tall glass halfway full of crushed ice. Pour the syrup over the ice (start with less, then add more to adjust to as sweet as you like). Add the club soda, filling an inch from the top of the glass. Add the cream.

Garnish with berries and a tall straw for stirring.

Recipe from Curly Girl Kitchen