Pepsi - Fountain Recipe

1. Standard fountain mix

Use a typical fountain mix ratio of 1 part Pepsi syrup to 5 parts carbonated water. This is the industry-standard starting ratio for Pepsi fountain beverages and produces a balanced sweetness and flavor.

2. Adjust ratio slightly to taste if you prefer sweeter (increase syrup up to 1:4) or lighter (decrease syrup toward 1:6). Record adjustments for consistency.

3. Chill the carbonated water and the syrup. For best results, keep both at refrigerator temperature (around 2–5°C / 36–41°F). Cold ingredients help maintain carbonation and proper mixing.

4. If using a commercial fountain dispenser: confirm the syrup bag or concentrate is properly connected to the syrup line and the carbonator is producing chilled, pressurized CO₂ water. Prime lines if the dispenser has been idle so syrup and water flow evenly.

5. If preparing manually (home method): measure 1 part Pepsi syrup into a chilled mixing pitcher. For a single 12 fl oz (355 ml) serving using the 1:5 ratio, use about 59 ml (2 fl oz) syrup and 296 ml (10 fl oz) carbonated water. Adjust measurements proportionally for other serving sizes.

6. Slowly pour the chilled carbonated water over or into the syrup while gently stirring with a long spoon or bar spoon to combine. Stir just enough to mix — over-stirring will dissipate carbonation.

7. Fill a serving glass with ice cubes if desired (about 1 cup). Pour the mixed Pepsi over the ice. Leave a little headspace for fizz. If serving without ice, pour into a chilled glass straight from the mixing pitcher or dispenser.

8. Garnish with a lemon wedge only if desired. Squeeze gently for a hint of citrus and discard the wedge if it overpowers the flavor.

9. Serve immediately. For fountain-dispenser service, ensure the dispenser nozzle is cleaned and wiped between pours to avoid cross-contamination and ensure proper foam control.

10. If using a fountain machine: keep syrup refrigerated as recommended by supplier, replace syrup bags before they run dry, and maintain CO₂ pressure according to equipment specs for consistent carbonation.

11. Taste periodically and maintain the 1:5 baseline. If drink tastes flat, check CO₂ levels and the temperature of the water. If too sweet, decrease syrup slightly; if too sour or weak, increase syrup slightly.