Galentine’s Day has emerged as a beloved unofficial holiday that many cherish even more than Valentine’s Day. Originating from pop culture and inspired by friendship—thanks to Leslie Knope—this festive occasion offers a delightful reason to gather your closest friends, don something pink, and celebrate those who support you throughout the year.
Unlike Valentine’s Day, Galentine’s Day is largely free from pressure or expectations—it’s all about laughter, delectable snacks, and having a great time. Whether you’re hosting a lavish brunch, enjoying a cozy movie night at home, or simply indulging yourself after a long week, Galentine’s Day is an opportunity for joy, connection, and a touch of extravagance.
Every fabulous Galentine’s celebration calls for a signature drink. Ideally, it should be visually appealing for photographs and irresistibly tasty, prompting you to reach for another glass. And if it also embodies the quintessential pink and red hues of the holiday? Even better.
While scrolling through social media for Galentine’s Day inspiration, I stumbled upon an enchanting pink-and-red dirty soda from Thirst Drinks. This bubbly and creamy concoction seemed like the ultimate dessert mocktail.
Currently, I’m enjoying my dirty soda phase and have been experimenting with various soft drinks, creamers, and even cold foam to craft light and delightful beverages. The Thirst Drinks mocktail begins with a citrus soda, layered with syrups and cream, and topped with a cherry—a perfect treat for any occasion.
Read on for an in-depth review of this delightful drink along with all the details needed to recreate it in your own home.
Related: 20 Valentine’s Day Breakfast, Dinner and Dessert Ideas the Whole Family Will Love
Galentine’s Day Dirty Soda Ingredients
Courtesy Angel Albring
(Courtesy Angel Albring)
The base of this Galentine’s drink consists of three flavored syrups that bring both vibrancy and sweetness to the mix. You’ll need cherry syrup, vanilla syrup, and cranberry syrup, in addition to Fresca or Sprite and coconut cream coffee creamer. While the maraschino cherries for garnish are optional, they certainly add a delightful touch.
Related: I Tried Every Flavor of Chobani Coffee Creamer To Find the Best One for Your Morning Brew
How To Make This Galentine’s Day Soda
This drink is easy to whip up, making it perfect for hosting guests or satisfying sudden cravings. Start with a tall glass—or a mason jar—and fill it generously with ice.
Courtesy Angel Albring
(Courtesy Angel Albring)
Next, pour equal parts cherry, vanilla, and cranberry syrups into the glass, then slowly add the soda—Fresca is recommended, but I opted for Sprite. Be sure to stop just before reaching the rim to allow space for the creamer. The carbonation lifts the syrups, creating a beautiful gradient of pink and red.
Gently pour in the coconut cream coffee creamer, allowing it to cascade and blend naturally. A light stir will mix the flavors while keeping the drink airy and frothy, finishing off with the cherries as garnish.
Courtesy Angel Albring
(Courtesy Angel Albring)
The beauty of this drink lies in its versatility. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, simply add more syrup; for a creamier texture, increase the amount of creamer; and if you want extra fizz, feel free to top it off with more Sprite. This beverage encourages experimentation with flavors.
Don’t be alarmed if the creamer separates slightly when mixed in; this is common with dairy in acidic drinks, but it doesn’t impact the flavor whatsoever.
Related: I Tried 8 Popular Sprite Flavors and the Winner Won by a Landslide
My Honest Thoughts About This Viral Drink
This drink is aesthetically pleasing, with vibrant pink and red hues layered in a mason jar that instantly conveys a sense of celebration. It feels festive yet effortless, which is precisely what I look for in a recipe.
Flavor-wise, I was pleasantly surprised. The cherry and cranberry provide a delightful balance of tartness and sweetness, while the vanilla contributes a warm undertone, and the Sprite keeps it refreshing. The coconut creamer truly elevates the drink; I added more than the creator suggested, resulting in a wonderfully frothy and creamy texture that I found irresistible. It was smooth and light, reminiscent of a milkshake without being too heavy.
Courtesy Angel Albring
(Courtesy Angel Albring)
What stood out to me was the well-balanced flavor profile of the drink. It avoids becoming overly sweet, with the carbonation ensuring each sip remains refreshing. Plus, this drink doesn’t have to be limited to February. Its bright flavors and pastel colors make it perfect for spring brunches or summer afternoons on the porch.
Related: I Tried Making ‘Hot Chocolate Coke’—and It’s My Family’s New Favorite Holiday Drink
3 Tips for Making This Galentine’s Soda
Courtesy Angel Albring
(Courtesy Angel Albring)
1. Switch things up
The beauty of this drink lies in its adaptability. If you’re missing any of the three syrups, feel free to substitute. Raspberry could replace cherry, and strawberry would bring even more fruity flavor. If cranberry syrup is too tart for your liking, consider using pomegranate syrup for a milder option.
2. Serve it your way
For a lighter finish, drizzle the creamer slowly and skip stirring to maintain the layered effect. Using clear glasses or mason jars enhances the drink’s appearance, making it feel extra special.
3. DIY it
If you’re entertaining a group, consider setting up a mini drink station with various syrups, allowing everyone to personalize their own soda. It’s a fun way to engage guests and lets them create their favorite flavors, as the fizz diminishes quickly, and the real enjoyment is in that first fresh pour and the stunning colors in the glass.
Key Takeaways
- Galentine’s Day is the perfect occasion to celebrate friendships.
- This dirty soda is visually appealing and easy to customize to taste.
- Add your favorite flavored syrups for a tailored experience.
- The drink’s vibrant colors make it suitable for any festive gathering.
- Experiment to find your ideal balance of sweetness, creaminess, and fizz.
FAQ
What flavors can I use if I don’t have the recommended syrups?
You can substitute raspberry for cherry or strawberry for a flavorful twist.
Can I make this drink non-alcoholic?
Yes, this recipe is inherently non-alcoholic and perfect for any gathering.
How can I make this drink look more festive?
Use clear glasses to showcase the layered colors and add garnishes like colorful straws or fruit slices.
Is it okay if the creamer separates in the drink?
Yes, it’s normal for dairy to separate in acidic beverages, and it won’t affect the taste.
This drink not only allows for creativity but also is a festive way to bond with friends. Celebrate your friendships with a delightful drink that fits any occasion throughout the year!