Dr. Pepper Recipe

Make the flavor concentrate

In a small saucepan over low heat, combine granulated sugar and light corn syrup with 2 tablespoons of water (not listed separately). Stir until sugar dissolves and mixture is just warm (do not boil). Remove from heat.

Infuse aromatics

Add vanilla extract, almond extract, orange zest, lemon zest, prune juice, maraschino cherry juice, cola syrup or strong brewed black tea concentrate, ground allspice, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground cardamom, and salt to the warm sugar mixture. Stir until fully incorporated. Let the concentrate cool to room temperature (about 10–15 minutes) to allow the flavors to meld.

Strain (optional)

If you prefer a perfectly clear soda, strain the cooled concentrate through a fine-mesh sieve or coffee filter into a small bowl to remove any zest or solids. Press gently on solids to extract flavor, then discard solids.

Assemble the soda

Place ice in a tall glass. Measure 3 tablespoons of the prepared flavor concentrate into the glass, then pour 2 cups (about 480 ml) of chilled carbonated water over the concentrate. Stir gently with a long spoon to combine, taking care not to flatten the carbonation. Taste and, if you prefer it sweeter or stronger, add another teaspoon of concentrate (made from the same batch) or a splash more cola syrup.

Garnish the glass with an orange slice on the rim and drop in a maraschino cherry. Serve immediately with a straw.