Midnight Malibu Dirty Soda

It was midnight and my friend Sarah was over, both of us craving something sweet but not quite dessert. We raided the fridge and found Dr Pepper, then got experimental with coconut cream and blackberry syrup from the morning pancakes. The first sip was this gorgeous revelation of creamy coconut meeting bright berry against that familiar pepper spice, and we stood at the kitchen counter laughing because wed accidentally created something restaurant-worthy.

Last summer I made these for a patio dinner party, setting up a little DIY station so people could adjust their own sweetness levels. Watching everyone take that first curious sip, then immediately ask for the recipe, was such a joy. Now its the drink my friends request most when they come over, that perfect not quite soda, not quite cocktail thing that hits the spot every single time.

Ingredients

• Dr Pepper: The backbone of this drink with its signature spiced sweetness that plays surprisingly well with coconut
• Blackberry syrup: Use homemade if you can for that fresh bright note, but good storebought works perfectly fine
• Coconut cream: The thick stuff from a can, not the thin coconut milk, this creates that gorgeous float on top
• Vanilla extract: Just a half teaspoon bridges all the flavors together and makes it taste like something special

Instructions

Quickly chop vegetables, mince herbs, and blend sauces for faster, everyday meal preparation.

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Build the base:

Fill a tall glass with ice cubes, leaving room at the top, then pour in cold Dr Pepper until about three quarters full

Add the berry swirl:

Drizzle in your blackberry syrup and watch it create those beautiful ribbons through the soda

Make the cream float:

Whisk together coconut cream and vanilla in a small cup until smooth, then slowly pour over the back of a spoon so it floats on top

Combine and serve:

Stir gently with a straw to create a marbled effect, then enjoy immediately while still cold

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My roommate walked in while I was photographing one of these for Instagram and immediately demanded I make her one. Now its our Friday night tradition, something we look forward to all week, that moment when we can finally sit down and sip something sweet and creamy and just talk about everything.

Getting The Sweetness Right

Start with one tablespoon of blackberry syrup and taste before adding more. Different brands have wildly different sweetness levels, and you can always add but you cant take it back. I learned this the hard way after making one that was cloyingly sweet and had to start completely over.

Playing With The Base

While Dr Pepper is classic, root beer creates this incredible vanilla forward version that tastes like a grown up float. Cola works beautifully too, giving you something that reminds me of those fancy Italian cream sodas from coffee shops but made in your own kitchen in minutes.

Serving Suggestions

I love serving these in tall glasses with plenty of ice so everyone can see those gorgeous layers before they stir. Fresh blackberries on top make it feel extra special, though honestly its just as good straight up.

• Use a straw so you can taste the layers as they combine
• Stir right before drinking for the full marbled experience
• Make these right before serving since the cream eventually melts into the soda

Stir sauces, sauté vegetables, and serve meals gently while adding a charming touch to everyday cooking.

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Theres something so satisfying about a drink that looks impressive but takes zero effort to make. This is the kind of recipe that makes you feel like a creative genius without actually having to try that hard.

Recipe FAQs

→ What makes this a 'dirty soda'?

Dirty soda refers to the trend of mixing cream or flavored syrups with soda, creating a creamy, sweetened beverage that transforms ordinary soft drinks into indulgent treats.

→ Can I use a different soda?

Absolutely. While Dr Pepper provides a unique flavor profile, cola, root beer, or even cherry soda work wonderfully. Each creates a slightly different taste experience.

→ Is the coconut cream necessary?

The coconut cream provides the signature creamy texture and tropical notes. You could substitute heavy cream or half-and-half, though the flavor profile will change slightly.

→ How do I make homemade blackberry syrup?

Simmer equal parts blackberries and sugar with a splash of water until the berries break down and the mixture thickens. Strain through a fine mesh and let cool before using.

→ Can this be made ahead?

This beverage is best enjoyed immediately while the soda is carbonated and the cream is fresh. The components can be prepped ahead, but assemble just before serving.

→ What's the best way to achieve the marbled effect?

Pour the coconut cream slowly over the back of a spoon to help it float on top. When ready to drink, stir gently with a straw to create the swirled marbled appearance.