Strawberry Cream Soda Recipe

 Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 1/4 cup water

• 1/4 cup heavy cream

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 liter sparkling water or club soda, chilled

• Optional toppings: Whipped cream, fresh strawberries, mint sprigs

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Strawberry Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, and water. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce the heat to low and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the strawberries are soft and the liquid has slightly thickened.

2. Strain and Cool: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Carefully strain the strawberry mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl or jar, pressing on the solids to extract all the juice. Discard the solids. Allow the syrup to cool completely.

3. Mix the Cream Base: In a small pitcher or measuring cup, whisk together the heavy cream and vanilla extract.

4. Assemble the Drinks: Fill tall glasses with ice. Pour about 2-3 tablespoons of the cooled strawberry syrup into each glass. Top with sparklng water, leaving about an inch of space at the top. Gently drizzle about 1-2 tablespoons of the cream mixture over the soda. The cream will slowly cascade down through the drink, creating a beautiful effect.

5. Garnish and Serve: Top with whipped cream, a fresh strawberry slice, and a sprig of mint if desired. Serve immediately with a straw for mixing.

Yields: 4-6 servings