
Sweet bubbly and bursting with fresh berry flavor this Strawberry Dirty Sprite is the ultimate summer refreshment for any occasion Think vibrant picnics or backyard get togethers or just a treat to brighten up a regular afternoon This recipe comes together fast using just a handful of easy to find ingredients and every sip tastes like a mini celebration
My family begs me to make this for warm afternoons and I love whipping it up on the fly The combination of real strawberries with fizzy soda never fails to bring a smile and instantly cool everyone down
Ingredients
- Fresh strawberries: Sliced to give natural berry flavor and a pop of color Always go for bright red firm berries with a sweet scent for the best taste
- Lemon lime soda: Think Sprite or 7UP This brings a tangy sparkle Try to choose a soda with real sugar for a smoother taste
- Ice cubes: Keeps everything chilled and refreshing I like using larger cubes that melt slowly
- Strawberry syrup: Optional but perfect if you want extra vibrant color or a sweeter edge Choose a syrup made with real strawberries for best results
- Fresh strawberries for garnish: This makes every glass look festive and extra special A few whole berries on top always impresses guests
Step by Step Instructions
- Prep the Strawberries:
- Wash the strawberries thoroughly in cold water for the freshest flavor and a clean finish Slice into even pieces about quarter inch thick For a bolder taste muddle a few slices in your glass to draw out the juice before adding other ingredients
- Chill the Glass:
- Add ice cubes until your glass is half full This keeps the drink icy cold down to the last sip Larger cubes will melt more slowly so the drink stays fizzy longer
- Pour the Soda:
- Carefully pour your lemon lime soda over the ice til it fills most of the glass but leaves enough space to add your strawberry elements This prevents overflowing and lets you mix flavors evenly
- Sweeten with Syrup:
- Add a tablespoon of strawberry syrup if you want that deeper berry flavor and sweeter taste Gently stir with a spoon so the syrup blends without flattening the bubbles
- Garnish and Serve:
- Drop a few whole strawberries on top for an eye catching finish For an extra burst of summer color tuck a sliced berry onto the rim of your glass Serve immediately while everything is still chilled and bubbly

There is something about the smell of freshly sliced strawberries that takes me straight back to long summer days as a kid Sipping on this drink while sitting outside with friends is pure nostalgia and always puts me in a great mood
Storage Tips
Strawberry Dirty Sprite is best enjoyed right after preparing so you get all that lively fizz and bright fruit flavor If you need to make it ahead only slice your strawberries and refrigerate them Wait to add soda and ice until you are truly ready to serve
Ingredient Substitutions
No strawberry syrup No problem You can muddle extra strawberries and add a pinch of sugar for a natural extra burst of sweetness and flavor Alternatively raspberry or cherry syrup makes an interesting twist
Serving Suggestions
This drink looks beautiful in mason jars or tall highball glasses For parties I love to set up a DIY dirty sprite bar with various fruit and syrup options You can even swap in club soda or sparkling water and let each guest sweeten their own glass

A Little History
Dirty Sprite is a popular twist on classic soda mixing in fresh fruit or flavored syrups to create something unique The strawberry version is a nonalcoholic nod to trending mixology giving you festive color and flavor with zero fuss
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?
Yes, frozen strawberries can be used. Allow them to thaw slightly before muddling for best flavor release.
- → Is there a way to make this drink less sweet?
Omit the strawberry syrup, use unsweetened soda, or add extra ice to balance sweetness to your liking.
- → What lemon-lime sodas work well in this drink?
Both Sprite and 7UP are great options, but any similar lemon-lime soda will create a refreshing result.
- → How do I achieve a stronger strawberry taste?
Muddle extra strawberries in the bottom of your glass or add more strawberry syrup for richer flavor.
- → Is it possible to prepare this drink ahead of time?
Prepare the sliced strawberries and syrup in advance, but add soda and ice just before serving for best fizz.
- → Can I turn this into an adult beverage?
Add a splash of vodka or rum for a spirited twist, mixing gently to maintain the bubbly texture.