Pepsi Recipe

1. Combine sugars and water

In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and 3/4 cup water. Stir to distribute the sugars evenly.

2. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until the sugars dissolve completely (about 3–5 minutes). Do not boil vigorously—aim for a light simmer to create a simple syrup.

3. Once the sugars are dissolved, reduce heat to low and add the lemon juice, vanilla extract, orange zest, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Stir to combine.

4. Simmer gently on low for 4–6 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse. If using brewed black tea or cola flavor concentrate, stir it in during the last minute of simmering.

5. Remove the pan from heat and let the syrup cool for about 10 minutes. If using powdered caffeine, dissolve it into a tablespoon of warm syrup or water first (measuring carefully) and then whisk into the warm syrup. Note: only use food-grade caffeine and be cautious with dosing; 50 mg is optional and intended as a single-serving additive.

6. Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean jar to remove zest and any solids. Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate. Syrup will keep chilled for up to 2 weeks.

7. Fill a tall glass with 1 cup of ice cubes.

8. Pour 2 tablespoons (adjust to taste) of the prepared cola syrup over the ice. This recipe's ingredient list uses 1/2 cup of syrup for a slightly stronger single serving; start with 2 tbsp and add more if you prefer a sweeter/stronger cola flavor.

9. Slowly pour 2 cups (about 480 ml) of cold carbonated water into the glass over the back of a spoon or down the side to preserve carbonation and encourage gentle mixing. Stir once gently to combine—avoid vigorous stirring to keep fizz.

10. Taste and adjust: add additional syrup 1 teaspoon at a time for more sweetness/flavor or a splash of lemon/lime juice for brightness. If you added powdered caffeine to the syrup, remember the drink will contain that caffeine amount per serving.

11. Garnish with a lemon or lime slice if desired and serve immediately chilled.