Pepsi Recipe
Make Pepsi Recipe in just 30m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Pepsi-style cola syrup (concentrate)
Soda assembly
Method
Pepsi-style cola syrup (concentrate)
- 1
Make simple syrup base
Combine 2 cups granulated sugar and 1 cup water in a small saucepan. Heat over medium, stirring frequently until sugar fully dissolves. Once dissolved, bring to a gentle simmer for 2 minutes to ensure a clear syrup. Remove from heat.
- 2
Add color and primary flavors
While the syrup is still warm, stir in 2 tablespoons caramel color and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until fully incorporated. Add 1 teaspoon fresh lime juice and stir. These provide the characteristic color and part of the cola profile.
- 3
Add acidity and optional caffeine
Carefully stir in 1 teaspoon food-grade phosphoric acid solution (10%). If using caffeine, add 1 teaspoon of a pre-dissolved food-grade caffeine solution now. Mix thoroughly. Note: Do not handle concentrated acids or caffeine powders directly; use ready-made food-grade solutions and follow safety guidance.
- 4
Add cola flavor blend
Add 1 teaspoon of a natural cola flavor blend (see notes). Stir the syrup thoroughly and taste a small amount diluted in cold water (1 tsp syrup in 2 tbsp water) to judge balance. Adjust: a few drops more lime or vanilla can be added for brightness if needed.
- 5
Cool and store
Allow the syrup to cool to room temperature. Transfer to a clean bottle or jar and refrigerate. Syrup keeps 2–3 weeks refrigerated. This concentrate makes approximately 4 cups of syrup and will be diluted to serve.
Soda assembly
- 6
Chill: Ensure carbonated water is very cold. Fill a tall glass with ice if desired.
- 7
Measure and mix: For a balanced cola, start with a ratio of 1 part syrup to 4 parts carbonated water. For one serving using this concentrate, add 1/2 cup (4 tablespoons = 1/4 cup) syrup to 2 cups cold carbonated water. Stir gently to combine, preserving carbonation.
- 8
Taste and adjust: Taste the soda. If too sweet, add a splash more sparkling water; if flat in flavor, add a small extra amount (1/2 teaspoon) of syrup or a drop more phosphoric acid solution for brightness. Avoid vigorous stirring to prevent loss of fizz.
- 9
Garnish and serve: Add a wedge of lemon or lime on the rim if desired. Serve immediately while cold and fizzy.