Dr.pepper Recipe

Combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, corn syrup and 1/2 cup water in a small saucepan over medium heat.

Stir gently until sugars dissolve and mixture comes to a gentle simmer. Do not boil vigorously; simmer 3–4 minutes to form a clear syrup.

Remove from heat and let cool 5 minutes while you prepare flavor ingredients.

Prepare citrus zest

Finely grate about half an orange and half a lemon to yield approximately 1 tablespoon combined zest; avoid white pith.

In a heatproof bowl or small jar, combine vanilla extract, almond extract, black cherry syrup, prune juice, licorice root powder, ground cinnamon, grated nutmeg, allspice, cola concentrate (if using), and citrus zest.

Add the warm syrup to the flavor mixture and stir thoroughly to dissolve and marry flavors. Taste carefully once blended (syrup will be concentrated).

If you want a clearer syrup, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove zest and any particulates; press gently to extract liquid.

While syrup is still warm or at room temperature, stir in citric acid and phosphoric acid solution (or white vinegar substitute). Mix well and taste a small drop diluted in 1 tablespoon of water to check acidity — it should be bright but not overly sour.

Adjust acidity in 1/8 tsp increments if needed. Remember this is a concentrate; final beverage will be diluted with sparkling water.

To serve, fill a glass with ice. Add 2–3 tablespoons of the Dr Pepper syrup concentrate per 8 ounces (1 cup) of sparkling water. Typical ratio: 1 part syrup to 12–16 parts sparkling water by volume; start with 2 tbsp syrup to 1 cup water and adjust to taste.

Stir gently to combine and taste. Add more syrup if you prefer stronger flavor, or more sparkling water if too sweet.

Garnish with a fresh maraschino or black cherry if desired and serve immediately while fizzy.

Store remaining syrup concentrate in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Re-stir before use as some ingredients may settle.