Chapman drink

Refreshing, Fizzy & Perfect for Any Occasion

If there’s one drink that instantly screams good vibes, it’s Chapman. This iconic Nigerian mocktail is fruity, fizzy, slightly bitter, and ridiculously refreshing. Whether you’re hosting friends, relaxing at home, or just tired of plain soft drinks, Chapman is the upgrade your glass needs.

What I love most about Chapman is how customizable it is. You can keep it simple or dress it up with fresh fruits, herbs, and homemade syrup. Either way, it always delivers that bold, refreshing taste we all know and love.

Best part? You don’t need any fancy equipment just ice, a few ingredients, and a tall glass.

Why You’ll Love This Chapman Recipe

Refreshing and fizzy without being too sweet
Easy to make in minutes
Perfect non-alcoholic party drink
Customizable with fresh fruits and syrup
Loved by both kids and adults

Ingredients

Lemon (thinly sliced)
Cucumber (thinly sliced)
Orange (thinly sliced)
Ice cubes (lots of it)
Fanta
Sprite
Grenadine syrup – (Grenadine syrup is traditionally made from pomegranate and adds sweetness and color to drinks, as explained here.)
(or Zobo syrup as a substitute)
Angostura bitters (optional)
Fresh mint leaves (optional)

How to Make Chapman

Step 1: Prepare the Fruits

Slice your lemon, cucumber, and oranges into thin rounds. Set aside.

Step 2: Build the Drink

In a tall jar or pitcher, add plenty of ice. Chapman is best served ice-cold, so don’t be shy with the ice.

Step 3: Add the Soft Drinks

Pour in the Fanta first, followed by Sprite. Adjust the quantity depending on how strong or light you want the drink.

Step 4: Sweeten & Flavor

Add grenadine syrup for color and sweetness.

If you don’t have grenadine, Zobo syrup works perfectly and adds a deeper, richer flavor.

To make Zobo syrup:
Wash dried hibiscus (zobo) leaves, boil with water and sugar until slightly thick, then allow to cool.

Step 5: Optional Extras

Add a few drops of Angostura bitters if you have it totally optional but gives that classic Chapman bitterness.

Toss in your sliced fruits and mint leaves.

Step 6: Mix & Serve

Stir everything well, serve chilled, and enjoy immediately.

Pro Tips for the Best Chapman

Always use lots of ice
Chill your soft drinks before mixing
Don’t overdo the grenadine, balance is key
Zobo syrup gives a more authentic Nigerian twist, read about the benefits here
Add mint last to keep it fresh

If you enjoy refreshing homemade drinks, you’ll also love my Zobo Drink Recipe and Tigernut Milk.

Serving Suggestions

Serve in tall glasses with extra ice
Garnish with orange slices and mint
Perfect alongside small chops, suya, or finger foods

Storage Tips

Chapman is best enjoyed fresh.
If making ahead:

Mix everything except Sprite
Refrigerate for up to 12 hours
Add Sprite just before serving to keep it fizzy

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make Chapman without grenadine?

Yes! Zobo syrup is a great substitute and adds a deeper, more traditional Nigerian flavor.

Is Angostura bitters necessary?

No, it’s optional. It adds a slight bitterness but the drink still tastes great without it.

Can I make Chapman in large batches?

Absolutely. Use a large pitcher and scale up the ingredients. Add Sprite last to maintain fizz.

Is Chapman alcoholic?

No, this is a non-alcoholic mocktail. However, adults can add alcohol if they choose.

Final Thoughts

Chapman is more than just a drink — it’s a vibe. Bright, refreshing, and endlessly customizable, it’s perfect for any gathering or even a quiet day at home when you want something special.

Once you try this version with fresh fruits and syrup, plain soft drinks will never hit the same again.

Looking for more drink ideas? Check out my Nigerian Drinks Collection for inspiration.