Start by filling your tall glass almost to the top with ice. I prefer using pebble ice because it absorbs flavors better than regular cubes. If you want an extra-cold drink, chill your glass in the freezer for 5 minutes beforehand. The more ice you use, the better the drink will taste.
Pour 2 tablespoons of raspberry syrup directly over the ice. Watch as it begins to coat the ice and create beautiful pink swirls. The syrup should settle at the bottom, creating the foundation for your dirty soda. Don't worry if it looks uneven at this stage.
Slowly drizzle 2 tablespoons of coconut cream over the syrup and ice. Pour it gently to create nice layers rather than mixing everything immediately. The cream will create a beautiful contrast against the pink syrup. This step gives the drink its signature "dirty" appearance.
Squeeze half a lime directly into the glass, aiming for about 1 tablespoon of juice. The lime adds a bright, tangy note that balances the sweetness perfectly. Always use fresh lime rather than bottled juice for the best flavor. Remove any seeds that might fall in.
Add ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract to enhance the overall flavor profile. The vanilla doesn't overpower but adds a subtle depth that makes this drink special. Pure vanilla extract works much better than artificial flavoring. This small addition makes a big difference.
Fill the remaining space with Sprite or your favorite lemon-lime soda. Pour slowly to maintain some layering effect initially. Once filled, give everything a gentle stir to combine all the flavors. The drink should turn a beautiful pink color with creamy swirls throughout.
Top your dirty soda with a fresh raspberry and add a colorful straw. The garnish isn't just for looks – it adds an extra burst of berry flavor. Serve immediately while the drink is fizzy and cold. Take a photo before drinking because this looks amazing!