Dr. Pepper Recipe

Inspired by Papizza Co.

Time10m

Serves1

355 mL CALORIES / SOFT DRINK CAN

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Frequently paired with

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sweet · crisp · bright acidity

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Ingredients

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Soda (makes one 355 mL can)

1 1/2 cup (355 ml) Carbonated water (chilled)

2.71 tbsp (40 ml) High-fructose corn syrup (or cane sugar syrup)

2 tsp Caramel color (liquid)

0.41 tsp (2 ml) Phosphoric acid solution (0.5% final)

1.22 tsp (6 ml) Natural and artificial flavor blend (Dr Pepper style)

0.02 tsp (0.1 ml) Caffeine solution (optional, 0.03% final)

0.2 tsp (1 ml) Citric acid (10% syrup)

0.04 tsp (0.2 ml) Sodium benzoate solution (preservative, 0.05% final) (optional)

4 cubes Ice (for serving)

1 to taste Lime wedge (optional, for garnish)

Method

Soda (makes one 355 mL can)

Prepare flavor base

In a small clean glass or measuring cup, combine the high-fructose corn syrup (or sugar syrup) with the caramel color, natural/ artificial flavor blend, citric acid syrup, phosphoric acid solution, caffeine solution (if using), and sodium benzoate solution (if using). Stir gently until uniform. This creates a concentrated syrup (approximately 50–55 ml total).

Chill carbonated water

Ensure the 355 ml of carbonated water is very cold (ideally 2–5°C). Keep it sealed or poured gently to preserve carbonation.

Combine syrup and carbonated water

Pour the prepared syrup gently into a tall chilled glass. Slowly add the 355 ml chilled carbonated water down the side of the glass to minimize foaming and loss of carbonation. Stir once very gently with a long spoon to incorporate the syrup evenly without knocking out too much fizz.

Taste & adjust

Taste carefully. If you prefer sweeter, add up to 5 ml more syrup (sugar) and stir gently. If you want a sharper tang, add a tiny additional 0.25–0.5 ml citric acid solution or squeeze a small amount of the lime wedge.

Serve

Add 3–4 ice cubes to a serving glass (optional). Pour or transfer the mixed soda over the ice. Garnish with the lime wedge if desired. Serve immediately to preserve carbonation.

Notes on ingredients

The quantities for acids, caffeine, and preservative are given as small measured solutions to approximate the balance found in a commercial Dr Pepper-style soft drink. For home recreation, use food-grade ingredients and adjust to taste. This recipe approximates the flavor profile and carbonation of a 355 mL can.