Sonic Ocean Water Recipe

5 from 1 vote

May 14, 2024

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This copycat recipe for Sonic Ocean Water is refreshing, light, non-alcoholic and perfect for sipping on while hanging at the pool or running errands this summer. It’s the perfect coconut-y lemon-lime drink! If you’re a fan of refreshing summer drinks, you’ll need to try my Virgin Pina Coladas!

Why You’ll Love This Copycat Sonic Ocean Water Recipe

This Sonic copycat recipe is a quick and easy summer non-alcoholic drink that has quickly become my go to favorite. It’s a copycat recipe from Sonic Drive-in. Made with lemon-lime soda (Sprite), simple syrup (sugar + water) and a taste of coconut extract with a little festive touch of blue food coloring (highly recommend) and a cherry on top! It’s super refreshing!! Bonus: It’s totally kid-friendly!

Make it Diet-Friendly

If you’re wanting a lower calorie, diet friendly version of Sonic Ocean Water, I have good news for you! You can use a diet version of any lemon-lime soda you prefer. I like to use Sprite Zero.

sprite, coconut extract and food coloring on counter

Ingredients Needed for Sonic Ocean Water

Just a handful of ingredients are needed to make this delicious blue drink! It’s refreshing, tasty, and always welcome on a hot summer day! Here’s what you need:

Lemon-lime soda: The bubbly base of this refreshing drink. I like to use Sprite, Sprite Zero or Sierra Mist.
Coconut extract: Provides that signature taste of coconut without the hassle of cracking open a coconut. Find it in the baking aisle with the other extracts.
Simple syrup: A sweetener that ensures the perfect balance of flavors. You can find this in the liquor aisle at the grocery store or make my homemade version!
Blue food coloring: Just a few drops create the vibrant blue color reminiscent of the ocean. Food coloring can usually be found down the baking aisle near the extracts and spices.
Maraschino cherries (optional): Add a pop of color and sweetness to garnish your drink.
Ice: Because what’s a cool drink without some ice to keep it chilled?

Variations:

Make it fun and serve in fun-shaped glasses.
Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less simple syrup.
For an adult beverage twist, add a splash of Malibu coconut rum.
Make a large batch and serve as a party punch at a birthday party or summer bbq.

How to Make Sonic Ocean Water

Making this Ocean Water drink is really simple, but full recipe details and measurements are found below in the printable recipe card.

1. Combine Ingredients

In the bottom of a liquid measuring cup, stir sprite, simple syrup, coconut extract and a few drops of blue food coloring together.

2. Pour + Garnish + Serve

Divide ice between four serving glasses and pour the ocean water mixture into each cup. Top with maraschino cherry and serve.

stirred sonic ocean water in liquid measuring cup

Storage Directions

Store leftover drink in the fridge for 2-3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Be aware that the carbonation in the soda will diminish with storage. You can also use the leftovers to make a slushy or popsicles.

Making Ahead of Time

Like most drinks, it’s best when consumed quickly after mixing up, but can be made up to a day ahead of time and kept in the fridge.

FAQ For This Sonic Ocean Water Drink

Can I use a different flavor other than coconut extract?

Yes. If you want to try a different flavor extract…try pineapple extract! It’ll still give you the tropical vibes and pairs well with sprite! You can also adjust the amount of coconut (or pineapple) extract, depending on how strong you prefer.

What is a simple syrup? How do I make it?

Simple syrup is sugar and water mixed together, creating a syrup. You can find it in the liquor department of any grocery store or at a liquor store. You can also make it yourself and its WAY cheaper than buying it. The most common ratio of simple syrup is equal parts sugar and water.

Love Sonic Ocean Water? Other Summery Drinks to Try:

Whether you’re reminiscing about beach days or just craving a taste of the tropics, this Sonic Ocean Water recipe is sure to hit the spot. Say goodbye to long lines and hello to making your own Sonic ocean water at home! It’s one for the whole family! The printable recipe card is below. Have a good one, friends! 🙂

If you make this recipe, I would really appreciate it if you would give it a star rating and leave your review in the comments! If you have a picture of your finished dish, post it on Instagram using the hashtag #laurenslatest and tagging me @laurens_latest.

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5 from 1 vote