Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Strawberry Dirty Sprite is the ultimate summer cocktail—refreshing, sweet, and boozy all in one glass. It combines the crisp fizz of Sprite with a homemade strawberry syrup, coconut rum, and fruit juice, creating a sweet and fruity drink that looks as good as it tastes. The addition of mint, lemon, and fresh strawberries gives it a fresh and vibrant flavor, while a splash of grenadine or purple food coloring adds a fun “dirty” look. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ, hanging out by the pool, or looking for a drink that makes a statement, this cocktail is the perfect choice.

Ingredients

For a Pitcher (serves about 6-8):
2 liters of Sprite or lemon-lime soda (regular, not diet)
1 cup fruit juice (such as apple juice, cranberry juice, or pineapple juice)
1/4 cup coconut rum (Malibu works great)
2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced (plus extra whole ones for garnish)
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
2 tablespoons sugar
Handful of fresh mint leaves
Ice cubes
1 lemon, thinly sliced for garnish

Optional Add-ins:
Purple food coloring (just a drop or two if you want that “dirty” purple tint)
Splash of grenadine for extra sweetness
Jolly Rancher candies for a sweeter version

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Make the Strawberry Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine sliced strawberries, sugar, and 1/4 cup of water. Simmer over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, smashing the berries as they soften.
Remove from heat, let it cool for about 10 minutes, then strain through a fine-mesh sieve, pressing on the solids to extract all the juice. Chill the syrup in the fridge.
Prepare the Pitcher: In a large pitcher (make sure it’s large enough for ice!), combine the fruit juice, coconut rum, and lemon juice.
Add the chilled strawberry syrup and stir well.
Add Mint: Clap the fresh mint leaves between your hands to release the oils, then add them to the pitcher.
Add ice cubes to the pitcher, then slowly pour in the Sprite, stirring gently to keep the fizz intact.
If using, add a drop or two of purple food coloring and gently swirl the mixture.
Garnish with lemon slices, fresh strawberries, and mint leaves for a beautiful presentation.
Serving: Pour the drink into glasses filled with ice and garnish each glass with a strawberry on the rim and a sprig of mint. For extra flair, sugar the rims of your glasses using a lemon wedge and pink sugar.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8
Prep time: 10 minutes (not including syrup chilling)
Cook time: 5-7 minutes (for the syrup)
Total time: 15-20 minutes

Variations

Strawberry Dirty Sprite Slushie: Blend the entire drink with extra ice for a slushy version, perfect for hot days.
Berry Berry Dirty: Swap half of the strawberries for blackberries or blueberries to add complexity to the flavor and give the drink a purple-red hue.
Tropical Dirty Sprite: Add a splash of pineapple juice and use more coconut rum than vodka for a tropical twist.
Virgin Version: Skip the alcohol and add more lemon juice and a dash of vanilla extract for a refreshing non-alcoholic version the whole family can enjoy.
Spicy Twist: Add a few slices of jalapeño to the strawberry syrup while cooking for a subtle kick of heat.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the strawberry syrup in the fridge for up to 3 days. The rest of the drink should be mixed just before serving to maintain the fizz from the soda.
Reheating: This drink is best served chilled and fresh, so it’s not ideal for reheating. Prepare the syrup in advance and add the soda right before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries! Let them thaw slightly before making the syrup to help release the juices.

2. How long does this drink last?

This drink is best enjoyed the same day to keep the soda fizzy. It may go flat if stored for too long.

3. Can I use a different soda?

You can! Try Sierra Mist, 7UP, or lemon-lime sparkling water. Just note that each soda may change the flavor profile a little, so experiment to find your favorite.

4. Do I have to make the strawberry syrup?

You don’t have to, but it really elevates the flavor. Using fresh strawberries in syrup gives the drink a more natural taste compared to using strawberry soda.

5. Can I make this drink into a slushie?

Absolutely! Blend the ingredients with extra ice to make a refreshing slushy version, perfect for hot summer days.

6. Can I use a different kind of rum?

Coconut rum is ideal for this recipe, but you can use other flavored rums, like pineapple or mango rum, for a different twist.

7. How do I keep the drink from getting watered down?

Instead of ice cubes, freeze some strawberries ahead of time and use them in place of ice cubes to keep the drink cold without watering it down.

Conclusion

Strawberry Dirty Sprite is a fun, colorful, and delicious drink that will instantly elevate your summer gatherings. The blend of coconut rum, fruit juice, fresh strawberries, and Sprite is irresistible and incredibly refreshing, making it the perfect drink for pool parties, BBQs, or just a casual hangout. With endless variations and the option for a non-alcoholic version, it’s a versatile recipe everyone can enjoy. Just don’t forget to garnish it with strawberries, mint, and lemon for that extra touch of fancy! Enjoy responsibly!