Dr. Pepper Recipe

Combine concentrated flavors

In a small bowl or jar, mix vanilla extract, a single drop of almond extract, cherry syrup (or grenadine), blackberry preserves (or concentrated syrup), and prune or prune concentrate until smooth. Stir in molasses to add depth — use the back of a spoon to fully incorporate the preserves and molasses so there are no lumps.

Add citrus and spices

Add the finely grated orange zest and fresh lemon juice to the flavor mix. Sprinkle in the pinch each of ground cinnamon, allspice, and freshly grated nutmeg. Stir thoroughly and taste a small smear on a spoon — the balance should be fruity, slightly spicy, and a touch of bitter/orange. Adjust by adding more cherry or blackberry syrup for fruitiness, or more lemon for brightness. Set aside.

If the granulated and brown sugars are not fully dissolved in the simple syrup, warm 2 tablespoons of water in the microwave or on the stove until just hot (not boiling). Stir in granulated sugar and dark brown sugar until dissolved to make a quick syrup. Allow to cool to room temperature.

In a serving glass or small pitcher, combine the cooled soda sweetener (the sugar syrup you just made and the 1 tablespoon prepared simple syrup) with the prepared flavor concentrate. Stir to combine thoroughly so the small amount of concentrates are evenly dispersed.

Fill a 12–16 oz serving glass with ice if desired (about 1 cup). Pour in 2 cups (about 16 fl oz) of very cold carbonated water slowly down the side of the glass to preserve carbonation. Add the combined sweetened flavor mixture to the carbonated water. Stir gently with a long spoon once to integrate — avoid vigorous stirring to keep fizz.

Taste and adjust: if you want it sweeter, add up to 1/2 teaspoon more simple syrup; for more cherry note, add 1/4 teaspoon cherry syrup; for more depth, add a tiny additional drop of molasses (check after stirring).

Garnish with a maraschino cherry and an orange slice on the rim. Serve immediately while cold and fizzy.