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sonic ocean water recipe

Sonic Ocean Water Recipe (Blue Coconut Drink)

A refreshing tropical blue beverage copycat that captures the essence of Sonic Drive-In's famous drink. This simple homemade version requires just a few ingredients and delivers the same sweet, coconutty flavor without leaving your house.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 Serving
Calories: 85

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cold water
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar or 3 tablespoons simple syrup
  • 1/4 cup coconut syrup Torani or Monin brands work best
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice about half a lime
  • 1/4 teaspoon coconut extract optional for extra coconut flavor
  • 3-4 drops blue food coloring
  • 2 cups cold club soda or sparkling water
  • as needed ice cubes
For Garnish
  • as needed maraschino cherries optional
  • as needed lime wedges optional

Equipment

  • cocktail shaker or mason jar
  • measuring spoons

Method
 

Step 1: Create the Coconut Base
  1. In a large pitcher, combine the cold water, sugar, coconut syrup, and lime juice. Stir until the sugar completely dissolves, about 1-2 minutes. Pro tip: Use room temperature water initially if you're having trouble dissolving the sugar, then chill afterward.
Step 2: Add Color and Flavor Enhancers
  1. Add the blue food coloring and coconut extract (if using). Start with 2-3 drops of food coloring and adjust to reach your desired ocean blue shade. Remember that the color will lighten slightly when you add the club soda, so make it a touch darker than your final goal.
Step 3: Chill the Mixture
  1. For best results, refrigerate the base mixture for about 30 minutes before serving. This step is optional but helps the flavors meld together and ensures your final drink will be perfectly cold.
Step 4: Add Carbonation
  1. Just before serving, gently stir in the club soda or sparkling water. Avoid vigorous stirring which can cause the carbonation to dissipate quickly. For individual servings, you can add the base to glasses and top each with carbonated water.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
  1. Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the sonic ocean water recipe over the ice. Garnish with maraschino cherries and lime wedges for that authentic tropical look. For an extra special touch, add a colorful paper umbrella or straw.