Cherry Italian Cream Soda
A nostalgic fizzy drink made with homemade cherry syrup, cream soda, and topped with whipped cream, perfect for summer gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Cherry Syrup
- 2 cups cherry juice Can use bottled or canned cherry juice or fresh cherries.
- 1 cup granulated sugar Adjust sweetness to taste.
For the Soda
- 1 cup cream soda More can be added for topping.
- as needed whipped cream For topping.
- as needed maraschino cherries For garnish.
- as needed ice To fill the glass.
Instructions
Make the Cherry Syrup
- Pour 2 cups cherry juice and 1 cup sugar into a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir until the sugar dissolves.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes, watching carefully to avoid boiling over.
- Remove the pan from heat and let the syrup cool to room temperature. Transfer to a jar and chill if not using immediately.
Assemble the Soda
- Fill a chilled glass with ice.
- Pour in 2 tablespoons of cherry syrup.
- Top with cream soda to fill the glass.
- Stir gently to combine.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream and finish with a maraschino cherry on top. Enjoy immediately.
Notes
For a less sweet drink, adjust syrup to 1 tablespoon per glass. Homemade syrup can be made ahead and stored for up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator. Avoid storing assembled drinks, as carbonation and whipped cream won't hold up.