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Pepsi-Clear Drink recipe

Cocktail glass

Introducing the refreshing Pepsi-Clear drink recipe - a fruity blend of Everclear alcohol, raspberry vodka, and Dr. Pepper soda. Impress your guests with this easy-to-make drink using a shaker with a strainer. Perfect for any occasion, this delicious and crisp beverage will leave your taste buds wanting more. Try it now!


Pepsi-Clear Ingredients

Pepsi-Clear Equipment

  • shaker with strainer - get rid of large pieces of ingredients (ex: fruit parts, seeds)

Pepsi-Clear Recipe

  1. fill a shaker halfway with ice cubes to cool the ingredients properly
  2. shake till perfectly chilled
  3. pour into glass

The Popularity of Pepsi-Clear

If you haven't heard of Pepsi-Clear, you're not alone. This drink has been a bit of a hidden gem in the cocktail world, but it's gaining popularity fast. So what is it, and why is it so special?

History and Origins

Pepsi-Clear first appeared on the scene in the early 2000s, and it quickly became a favorite among bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts. The drink is said to have originated in the southern United States, but its exact origins are a bit of a mystery.

Some say that Pepsi-Clear was created as a response to the popularity of the "clear" trend in the 90s and early 2000s (think Crystal Pepsi and Zima). Others believe that it was simply a happy accident, born out of experimentation with different ingredients.

Famous For

One of the things that makes Pepsi-Clear so unique is its combination of ingredients. The drink is made with Everclear alcohol, raspberry vodka, and Dr. Pepper soda. This unusual mix of flavors creates a drink that is sweet, fruity, and surprisingly strong.

Pepsi-Clear is also known for its distinctive appearance. The drink is a deep red color, thanks to the raspberry vodka, and it has a frothy, almost creamy texture.

Geographic Popularity

While Pepsi-Clear may not be a household name just yet, it has gained a strong following in certain parts of the United States. The drink is particularly popular in the southern states, where it is often served at bars and restaurants.

Ingredient Roles

As we mentioned earlier, Pepsi-Clear is made with three main ingredients: Everclear alcohol, raspberry vodka, and Dr. Pepper soda. Each of these ingredients plays an important role in the overall flavor and texture of the drink.

Everclear Alcohol

Everclear is a grain alcohol that is known for its high alcohol content. In Pepsi-Clear, it serves as the base for the drink, adding a strong kick to the sweet and fruity flavors of the other ingredients.

Raspberry Vodka

Raspberry vodka adds a sweet, fruity flavor to the drink, as well as a bright red color. It is a key ingredient in creating the distinctive appearance of Pepsi-Clear.

Dr. Pepper Soda

Dr. Pepper soda adds a unique flavor to Pepsi-Clear, with its blend of 23 different flavors. It also helps to balance out the sweetness of the other ingredients and give the drink a bit of fizz.

How to Garnish

When it comes to garnishing Pepsi-Clear, less is definitely more. The drink is already quite flavorful and visually striking, so it doesn't need a lot of extra adornment.

A simple wedge of lime or lemon is a nice touch, as it can help to balance out the sweetness of the drink. You could also add a few fresh raspberries on top for a pop of color and flavor.

Variations

While the classic version of Pepsi-Clear is delicious on its own, there are plenty of variations that you can try to mix things up. Here are a few ideas:

Virgin/Mocktail Version

To make a non-alcoholic version of Pepsi-Clear, simply leave out the Everclear and raspberry vodka. You can replace them with a bit of raspberry syrup and some club soda for a similar flavor and texture.

Gluten-Free Version

Most versions of Everclear are gluten-free, but it's always a good idea to double-check the label just to be sure. If you're looking for a gluten-free raspberry vodka, try Tito's or Absolut.

Vegan Version

Pepsi-Clear is already vegan-friendly, as none of the ingredients contain animal products. Just be sure to check the label on your Dr. Pepper soda to make sure it's vegan as well.

Keto Version

If you're following a keto diet, you can still enjoy Pepsi-Clear with a few simple substitutions. Replace the Dr. Pepper soda with a diet version, and use a sugar-free raspberry syrup instead of raspberry vodka.

Low-Calorie Version

To make a lighter version of Pepsi-Clear, simply use a diet Dr. Pepper soda and a low-calorie raspberry vodka. You could also try using a flavored sparkling water instead of the soda for a lower calorie count.

Common Mistakes When Making

While Pepsi-Clear is a relatively simple drink to make, there are a few common mistakes that you'll want to avoid:

  • Using too much Everclear: This drink is already quite strong, so be careful not to overdo it on the Everclear. Stick to the recommended amount (1 oz) to avoid overpowering the other flavors.
  • Skipping the strainer: Because Pepsi-Clear contains bits of fruit (from the raspberry vodka), it's important to use a shaker with a strainer to remove any large pieces. This will help to create a smooth and creamy texture.
  • Not adjusting the sweetness: Depending on the brand of Dr. Pepper soda you use, you may need to adjust the sweetness of the drink. If it's too sweet for your taste, try adding a bit of lime or lemon juice to balance it out.

With these tips in mind, you'll be able to make a perfect glass of Pepsi-Clear every time. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to the drink, it's easy to see why this cocktail has become a favorite among bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts alike.

If you are going to order Pepsi-Clear in a bar, don’t forget to mention all the ingredients to the bartender. Pepsi-Clear can be served with different ingredients in different places.