Italian Cream Soda Recipe: A Creamy, Fizzy Drink for Any Occasion
Nothing feels as fun and refreshing as an Italian soda—bubbly, sweet, and endlessly customizable! This simple drink combines flavored syrup, fizzy club soda, and optional cream for a deliciously smooth and refreshing treat. It’s the perfect way to cool down on a hot day or add a little excitement to your drink menu.
I first fell in love with Italian sodas at a small café that made them in every flavor imaginable. After trying one, I knew I had to recreate them at home. Now, they’re my go-to for parties, summer afternoons, and even as a fun alternative to traditional sodas. The best part? You can mix and match flavors for endless possibilities!

Your Grocery List
- Flavored syrup (3 tablespoons, any flavor like raspberry, vanilla, or strawberry)
- Club soda (1 cup, chilled)
- Ice cubes (1/2 cup)
- Heavy cream (2 tablespoons, optional for an Italian cream soda)
- Whipped cream (for topping, optional)
- Maraschino cherry (for garnish, optional)
Choosing Your Flavors
The beauty of Italian soda is that you can use any flavored syrup you like! Try fruity flavors like peach, blueberry, or mango for a tropical twist, or go classic with vanilla or caramel. You can even mix flavors—raspberry and vanilla make an amazing combo!
The Key to the Perfect Fizz
For the best bubbly effect, pour the flavored syrup over ice first, then slowly add the club soda. Stir gently to combine—too much stirring can make the soda go flat. If you’re making an Italian cream soda, pour the heavy cream in last and watch it swirl beautifully into the drink.
Make It Even Better
Want to take it up a notch? Swap the club soda for sparkling water for a lighter option, or use flavored sparkling water for an extra layer of taste. For a festive touch, top with whipped cream and a maraschino cherry!
Pairing Ideas
What Kind of Pizza Goes Well with Italian Soda?
A bubbly Italian soda pairs perfectly with a cheesy white pizza or a classic pepperoni slice for a refreshing contrast.
Drink Pairings
Serve alongside iced tea for a non-alcoholic drink duo, or pair it with a light cocktail for an elevated treat.
Dessert Pairings
Enjoy with a creamy panna cotta, fruit tart, or a simple scoop of gelato for the perfect sweet finish.
Storage Tips
Italian soda is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store the flavored syrup in the fridge for months! Just mix with club soda when ready to serve.
Recipe Timing
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
Fun Facts
Despite its name, Italian soda isn’t actually from Italy! It was invented in the U.S. by an Italian-American company in the 1920s.
Allergen Warnings
This recipe is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free if you skip the heavy cream. Check syrup labels for potential allergens.
Vegetarian or Vegan Substitutes
For a vegan Italian cream soda, use coconut cream or oat milk instead of heavy cream. Most flavored syrups are already vegan-friendly!
Italian Soda
Equipment
- Tall glass
- Spoon or straw
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons flavored syrup any flavor like raspberry, vanilla, or strawberry
- 1 cup club soda chilled
- 1/2 cup ice cubes
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream optional, for Italian cream soda
- whipped cream for topping, optional
- maraschino cherry for garnish, optional
Instructions
- Fill a tall glass halfway with ice cubes.
- Pour the flavored syrup over the ice.
- Slowly pour the chilled club soda into the glass, stirring gently to combine.
- If making an Italian cream soda, slowly pour in the heavy cream and watch it swirl into the drink.
- Top with whipped cream and a maraschino cherry if desired. Serve immediately with a straw.