Mountain Dew Recipe

Mountain Dew (copycat soda)

1. 1

   Make a concentrated syrup

   In a small saucepan combine the granulated sugar and corn syrup with 2 tablespoons of water. Heat over medium-low, stirring constantly, until the sugar fully dissolves and the mixture thickens slightly (about 3–4 minutes). Do not boil vigorously. Remove from heat and let cool for 3–5 minutes.

2. 2

   Add acids and citrus

   Stir the citric acid into the warm syrup until dissolved. Add the fresh lime juice, lemon juice, and orange juice to the syrup and mix thoroughly. Taste carefully — this is the flavor base; it should be bright, tart, and slightly sweet.

3. 3

   Add caffeine and color (optional)

   If using caffeine powder, dissolve the measured caffeine into a teaspoon of warm water first, then stir into the syrup until fully dissolved. Add 2 drops yellow food coloring and 1 drop green coloring, stir to achieve the characteristic light neon-yellow-green color. Adjust color by single-drop increments if needed.

4. 4

   Combine with carbonated water

   Fill a tall pitcher or large glass with 3 cups of very cold carbonated water. Add the prepared syrup to the carbonated water and stir gently with a long spoon to combine — avoid vigorous stirring to preserve carbonation. Taste and adjust: add up to 1 tablespoon more syrup (or more citrus) for sweeter/stronger flavor, up to 1 teaspoon more citric acid for extra tang.

5. 5

   Serve

   Pour over ice if desired and serve immediately. Garnish with a thin lime wheel or wedge if you like. Makes approximately 1 large serving (about 12 fl oz).