In a saucepan, heat water and sugar over medium heat until sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. This is your vanilla syrup.

Let the syrup cool, then store it in the fridge until ready to use.

To serve, add 3–4 tablespoons of syrup to a glass filled with ice.

Add a tiny drop of food coloring if you want that dreamy pink tone.

Pour in sparkling water and gently stir.

Optional: Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the full cream soda float aesthetic.

Garnish with a maraschino cherry, vintage straw, or whipped cream for extra flair.