Blood Orange Italian Soda

Recipe at a glance

• Estimated yield: 1 soda, plus extra syrup
• Prep: about 10 minutes
• Cooking: about 15 minutes
• Additional time: about 30 minutes (resting, rising, chilling or freezing, where required)
• Total: about 55 minutes

Times and yields are planning estimates, not results from a documented kitchen test. Follow the texture and temperature checks in the method; optional overnight rests take longer. Measurements use US cups and spoons unless stated otherwise.

Blood Orange Italian Soda is a refreshing and flavorful non-alcoholic beverage made with blood orange syrup, sparkling water, and ice. It’s easy to make and perfect for serving at parties or enjoying on a warm day. Here’s a recipe for Blood Orange Italian Soda, including a homemade blood orange syrup:

Blood Orange Syrup:

• 1 cup blood orange juice (from about 4-5 blood oranges)
• 1 cup granulated sugar

Instructions for Blood Orange Syrup:

1. In a small saucepan, combine the blood orange juice and granulated sugar.
2. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar has completely dissolved.
3. Once the sugar has dissolved, reduce the heat to low and simmer gently for 10–15 minutes, until slightly thickened; avoid a vigorous rolling boil.
4. Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the syrup to cool. Transfer the cooled syrup to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Blood Orange Italian Soda:

• Crushed ice
• 2-3 tbsp blood orange syrup (or to taste)
• 8 oz sparkling water or club soda
• Optional: a splash of half-and-half or cream
• Optional garnish: blood orange slice and a sprig of fresh mint

Instructions for Blood Orange Italian Soda:

1. Fill a tall glass with crushed ice.
2. Pour 2-3 tablespoons of the blood orange syrup over the ice, adjusting the amount based on your desired sweetness.
3. Slowly pour the sparkling water or club soda into the glass, allowing it to mix with the blood orange syrup. Stir gently to combine.
4. For a creamy variation, add a splash of half-and-half or cream to the glass and stir gently.
5. Garnish the Blood Orange Italian Soda with a slice of blood orange and a sprig of fresh mint, if desired.
6. Serve immediately with a straw and enjoy your refreshing Blood Orange Italian Soda!

This recipe can be easily adapted to other flavors by substituting the blood orange juice with the juice of your choice to create a variety of delicious Italian sodas.

Storage and serving

Keep refrigerated at 40°F (4°C) or colder and use within three days, or sooner if an ingredient label requires it. Serve dressed salads promptly for best texture. For picnics, transport in an insulated cooler with ice packs and set out small portions. Limit perishable food to two hours out of refrigeration, or one hour above 90°F (32°C). Food-safety guidance.

The time estimate includes making and cooling a batch of syrup. The soda measures make one glass; refrigerate leftover syrup and use within three days.

Editorial update: October 23, 2026. Ingredient and method consistency reviewed; a documented kitchen test is still needed.