Name: Pear and Vanilla Spritzer
Total time: PLACEHOLDER
Ingredients: ½ vanilla bean; 2 Bosc pears , peeled, halved, and cored; 3 cups seltzer , chilled

Why This Recipe Works

For a sugar-free drink inspired by cream soda, we processed vanilla bean with ripened pears and combined it with bubbly seltzer. We opted to use vanilla bean instead of vanilla extract because while the latter worked in this recipe and is traditionally beneficial in baking, it tasted slightly of alcohol. For enhanced body and added complexity to complement the vanilla flavor, we used pears. The pears tasted vaguely of warm spices and became thick and velvety in the food processor, which added a nice texture to our final drink when the seltzer was stirred in.

Before You Begin

Be sure that the pear is perfectly ripe for easy prep and a delicious final product. The puree will hold well in the fridge for up to 1 day. It may get slightly darker as the day progresses.

Instructions

Cut vanilla bean in half lengthwise. Using tip of paring knife, scrape out seeds; discard empty pod. Process pears and vanilla seeds in food processor until smooth, scraping down sides of bowl as needed, about 90 seconds. Strain mixture through fine-mesh strainer into pitcher. (Puree can also be stored in airtight container in refrigerator for up to 2 days; transfer puree to pitcher before proceeding.)

Just before serving, gently stir seltzer into puree until combined. Pour into ice-filled glasses. (You can also make a single portion by combining ¼ cup puree and ¾ cup seltzer in glass before adding ice.)