Pepsi Recipe

Prepare syrup base

Combine 1 cup water and both sugars (1 cup granulated + 1/4 cup brown) in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugars dissolve completely.

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Let simmer for 6–8 minutes to slightly thicken — you want a light syrup (not as thick as simple syrup used for cocktails).

If using caramel color by making caramel: in a separate small skillet, carefully melt 1–2 tablespoons of sugar over medium heat until it darkens to a deep amber, then carefully add 1–2 tablespoons water to dissolve and pour into the syrup for color. Alternatively stir in 1 teaspoon molasses for color and depth.

Add the cinnamon stick, grated nutmeg, ground coriander, and orange zest to the simmering syrup. Let them steep in the warm syrup for 5 minutes off the heat to infuse flavor.

Remove from heat. Strain the syrup through a fine mesh sieve to remove solids. While still warm, stir in the lime juice, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and citric acid (if using). Taste and adjust: add up to another 1/2 teaspoon citric acid or a little more citrus if you prefer brighter acidity.

Cool the syrup to room temperature, then transfer to a clean jar. Refrigerate; syrup will keep 2–3 weeks refrigerated.

Chill a tall glass. Fill the glass with 1 cup of ice cubes.

Measure 1 tablespoon of the prepared cola syrup and pour it over the ice. (Adjust 1/2–1 1/2 tbs to taste; commercial Pepsi is sweeter/stronger so increase syrup if desired.)

Carefully pour 2 cups (about 470 ml) of chilled carbonated water over the syrup. Pour gently to preserve carbonation.

Stir gently once to combine syrup and water, being careful not to flatten the fizz.

Garnish with an optional lemon wedge or a thin slice of lime. Serve immediately, with a straw if desired.