How To Make Cherry Dr. Pepper Soda At Home

Craving that bold, cherry-infused kick of Dr. Pepper but want to ditch the artificial flavors and high-fructose corn syrup? Enter homemade Cherry Dr. Pepper—a soda that’s not only easy to make but packed with real fruit flavors and just the right amount of fizz. This DIY version brings together tart cherries, earthy prune juice, and a touch of molasses for a drink that’s deep, complex, and utterly refreshing!

What Makes This Cherry Dr. Pepper Stand Out?

While traditional sodas rely on artificial flavoring, this recipe delivers bold, natural flavors. Tart cherry juice gives it a vibrant fruitiness, while prune juice adds the earthy depth that’s key to Dr. Pepper’s signature taste. A molasses-infused brown sugar syrup rounds it out with a caramel-like richness. Top it with sparkling water, and you’ve got a drink that’s robust, refreshing, and undeniably delicious.

Ingredients Needed

• Tart Cherry Juice: The star of the show. Tart cherry juice brings a natural, vibrant cherry flavor with just enough acidity to balance the sweetness.
• Prune Juice: Yes, prune juice. It may sound unusual, but it adds the deep, earthy undertones that make Dr. Pepper so distinctive.
• Brown Sugar-Molasses Simple Syrup: A rich, caramel-like sweetness that ties everything together and mimics the subtle spice of classic Dr. Pepper.
• Almond Extract: A key player in replicating that signature Dr. Pepper taste. It brings a nutty, slightly floral note that enhances the overall complexity.
• Vanilla Extract: Smooths out the flavor profile and adds a touch of warmth to balance the fruitiness.
• Orange Juice: A hint of citrus brightens everything up, adding a subtle zing that keeps the flavors from feeling too heavy.

How to Make Cherry Dr. Pepper Soda

Make the Simple Syrup

Start by dissolving brown sugar and molasses in water over medium heat. Once it simmers, remove from heat and let it cool. This syrup is the backbone of the soda’s rich, slightly smoky sweetness.

Mix the Soda Syrup

In a pitcher, combine tart cherry juice, prune juice, cooled simple syrup, almond extract, vanilla extract, and a splash of orange juice. Stir well to blend all the flavors together.

Assemble Your Drink

Fill a glass with ice, pour in the cherry soda syrup, then top it off with sparkling water. Stir gently and sip away.

Store for Later

Any leftover soda syrup can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to five days... If it'll last that long!

Other Fruity Drink Recipes To Try

Strawberry Syrup

This homemade strawberry syrup is perfect for drizzling over pancakes, stirring into drinks, or adding a burst of fresh berry flavor to desserts.

Hibiscus Italian Cream Soda

A floral, slightly tart take on the classic Italian cream soda. This vibrant drink is refreshing and creamy all at once.

Carrot with Orange Juice

This juice is what I reach for when I am under the weather, although it's delicious enough that I would drink it every day. Orange, carrot, and ginger, oh my!