Monster Energy Recipe

Dissolve dry ingredients

In a small heatproof cup or bowl, combine the cane sugar and dextrose with the citric acid. Add 2 tablespoons of hot (not boiling) water and stir until the sugars and citric acid are fully dissolved. This creates a concentrated sweet-tart syrup that will blend more evenly into carbonated water.

Mix powders and actives

In a separate small bowl, combine the taurine powder, L-carnitine (if using), and caffeine powder (measure carefully). Add the B-vitamin blend and green tea extract if using. Stir to combine. If you are using brewed espresso instead of powdered caffeine, omit adding powdered caffeine and set aside the espresso to cool.

Combine syrups and actives

Into a clean 16 fl oz (about 480 ml) mixing vessel, pour the dissolved sugar/citric concentrate. Add the powder mix (taurine, L-carnitine, caffeine, vitamins). Stir thoroughly until powders are as fully dissolved as possible. If powders remain grainy, dissolve them in 2–3 tablespoons of warm water first, then add.

Add flavor

Stir in the natural flavor concentrate (about 1 teaspoon). Taste a small sample; flavor concentrates vary in strength, so adjust by adding up to another 1/2 teaspoon if a stronger flavor is desired. Keep in mind the final beverage will be diluted with carbonated water.

Chill and carbonate

If your mixing vessel is not cold, chill the mixture briefly (5–10 minutes) in the fridge. Add ice to a 16 fl oz serving glass if desired. Carefully pour 12 fl oz (about 360 ml) of cold carbonated water into the mixing vessel or glass, slowly to retain carbonation. Stir gently with a bar spoon to combine; avoid vigorous stirring to preserve fizziness.

Transfer the assembled drink to a serving glass if mixed in a separate vessel. Add a lime wedge or lemon twist on the rim if desired. Serve immediately over ice. Consume responsibly—this recipe yields roughly 160 mg caffeine per 12 fl oz serving (equivalent to many energy drinks). Do not combine with alcohol. Keep out of reach of children and pregnant individuals; adjust caffeine amounts to suit tolerance.