Dr. Pepper’s new “Creamy Coconut” soda is bringing pride and joy to Utah, where coconut-flavored soda is, informally, the state’s signature drink.
The big picture: “Dirty” sodas — originally cola mixed with coconut syrup — are widely considered a Utah innovation, spawning an array of soda shop chains that mix flavors in enough elaborate concoctions to support Stanley’s entire cup production line.
Driving the news: Dr. Pepper announced the new, limited-release flavor Tuesday, with regular and diet options.
Zoom in: Coconut is key to Utahns’ enthusiasm, with diet cola and sugar-free coconut syrup earning extra affection here.
- Cherry cola is, of course, a flavor pairing that long predates Utah’s coconut craze.
What they’re saying: “Huge day for Utah,” Method Communications’ executive Tyler Monson posted on X.
Reality check: Coca-Cola briefly released a coconut-infused variety in its “Creations” line last year.
- Yes, but: It’s now out of production, the company’s website states.
Context: Flavor-mixed sodas are a good fit in a market where the dominant religion eschews coffee, tea and alcohol.
Meanwhile, Dr. Pepper also is selling a coconut-lime “dirty soda creamer” in partnership with Coffee Mate.
