Roy Rogers Drink

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Roy Rogers Drink is a nostalgic beverage that’s both refreshing and easy to make. It combines the sweetness of cola with the fruity taste of grenadine, creating a balanced and flavorful mocktail that everyone can enjoy. If you prefer a less sweet version, you can easily tweak the recipe by adding club soda and a squeeze of citrus, giving the drink a zesty kick. Plus, garnishing it with maraschino cherries or citrus wedges makes it look just as good as it tastes. Perfect for any occasion, the Roy Rogers Drink is a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults.

Ingredients

For A Classic Roy Rogers Drink:

• Ice
• 1 cup (8 oz.) cola soda (like Coca Cola)
• 1 tablespoon (1/2 oz.) grenadine syrup
• Optional garnish: maraschino cherries, lemon or lime wedges

For A Less Sweet Roy Rogers Drink:

• Ice
• 3/4 cup (6 oz.) cola soda (like Coca Cola)
• 1 tablespoon (1/2 oz.) grenadine syrup
• Squeeze lemon or lime juice (1/2 tablespoon)
• 1/4 cup (2 oz.) club soda
• Optional garnish: maraschino cherries, lemon or lime wedges

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

Directions

1. For a Classic Roy Rogers Drink:
   • Fill a glass with ice.
   • Pour 1 cup of cola soda into the glass.
   • Add 1 tablespoon of grenadine syrup and stir gently to combine.
   • Garnish with a maraschino cherry and a slice of lemon or lime, if desired.
2. For a Less Sweet Roy Rogers Drink:
   • Fill a glass with ice.
   • Pour 3/4 cup of cola soda into the glass.
   • Add 1 tablespoon of grenadine syrup.
   • Squeeze in about 1/2 tablespoon of lemon or lime juice for a tart twist.
   • Add 1/4 cup of club soda for some fizz and stir gently.
   • Garnish with a maraschino cherry and a lemon or lime wedge.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes one serving. The total preparation time is just about 5 minutes, making it a perfect quick drink option for any occasion. You can easily double or triple the recipe if you’re serving a group.

Variations

• Roy Rogers with Lime: Add extra lime juice or garnish with a lime wedge for a more citrus-forward flavor.
• Citrus Twist: Use orange soda or lemon-lime soda instead of cola for a different twist on the classic Roy Rogers.
• Roy Rogers Mocktail Punch: Multiply the ingredients for a larger batch, perfect for parties. You can also add more grenadine for a sweeter, more vibrant drink.
• Sugar-Free Version: Use a sugar-free cola soda and a lower-calorie grenadine to make this drink a lighter option.

Storage/Reheating

Since the Roy Rogers Drink is best served fresh with ice, it’s not recommended to store it once prepared. However, you can prepare the grenadine syrup in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. When making a large batch, store the drinks in the fridge but avoid adding ice until ready to serve.

FAQs

Can I use diet cola for a lower-calorie version?

Yes, using diet cola will reduce the calories and sugar content while still giving you the familiar taste of the classic Roy Rogers Drink.

How can I make this drink less sweet?

For a less sweet version, use less grenadine syrup and add a splash of club soda or sparkling water for a more balanced drink.

Can I use homemade grenadine syrup?

Yes, homemade grenadine made from pomegranate juice and sugar works wonderfully in this drink and can provide a more natural flavor.

How long can I store grenadine syrup?

Homemade grenadine syrup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Can I make a large batch of Roy Rogers Drink?

Yes, simply multiply the ingredients to make a large batch. Be sure to add the soda just before serving to maintain the fizz.

What is the best type of cola to use?

Classic cola sodas like Coca-Cola or Pepsi work best for this drink. If you prefer a different flavor, try using flavored colas such as cherry cola.

Can I make this drink without grenadine?

If you don’t have grenadine, you can use cranberry juice or even raspberry syrup as an alternative for a similar sweet and fruity flavor.

Conclusion

The Roy Rogers Drink is a timeless, refreshing beverage that is perfect for any occasion. With its sweet cola base, fruity grenadine syrup, and optional garnishes, it’s a simple but delicious mocktail that everyone can enjoy. Whether you stick with the classic version or make a lighter, less sweet variation, it’s a fun and easy drink to serve at parties or enjoy as a treat. Make it your own by adding extra garnishes or experimenting with soda flavors—either way, the Roy Rogers is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

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