In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the white sugar to create a quick caramel, cooking until it reaches a deep amber color.
Carefully whisk in the water and brown sugar until dissolved.
Add the zest and juice of the orange, lemon, and lime, along with the cinnamon sticks and star anise. Simmer for a few minutes to infuse the flavors.
Remove from heat and let the syrup cool for about 30 minutes.
Stir in the vanilla extract and apple cider vinegar. Adjust the vinegar amount based on your preference for a sharper Coke profile (more vinegar) or a lighter Pepsi profile (less vinegar).
Strain the syrup through a fine mesh sieve into a bottle or jar, discarding the solid aromatics.
To serve, pour 1 to 2 ounces of the homemade cola syrup into a glass filled with ice. Top with sparkling water and garnish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
Cook it hands-free.
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