It's cozy drink season, when pumpkin spice lattes, chai teas, caramel macchiatos, and hot apple cider all take their turn in the spotlight. But this year, one unlikely beverage is joining the lineup: whipped Dr Pepper. Thanks to a viral trend, the iconic soda is being reconstructed as a creamy, airy, sweetened fall drink.
The Rise of Whipped Dr Pepper
Whipped Dr Pepper first gained traction earlier this year, with several variations popping up on TikTok and Instagram. Some versions blend frozen cubes of Dr Pepper with the soda to create a frosty, float-like texture. Others, like the one currently sweeping social media, rely on a rich homemade cream topping for a cafe-inspired finish.
What’s in a Salted Maple Whipped Dr Pepper?
The most popular twist, a salted maple whipped Dr Pepper, comes from creator Amanda Mae (@amandamae_home), who’s known for her seasonal drink recipes and cozy kitchen content.
The recipe starts with a simple homemade foam topping that rivals any coffeehouse creation, made by combining heavy cream, maple syrup, and sea salt, then beating until light and frothy using a milk frother or small blender. Once whipped, the topping takes on a smooth, buttery texture similar to soft whipped cream.
To assemble, fill a glass with ice and pour in 8- to 10-oz. of Dr Pepper. Spoon the maple cream on top, creating a layered effect that’s both visually appealing and texturally rich. A dusting of nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice adds the finishing touch. The result is a drink that tastes like fizzy fall.
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A Perfect Balance of Fall Flavors
Social media users have praised the trend for its balance of sweet, spicy, and creamy flavors, which complement Dr Pepper’s signature blend of 23 spices. The maple topping softens the soda’s boldness and adds a buttery, caramel-like note that feels distinctly autumnal.
The Salted Maple Whipped Dr Pepper is easy to make with just a few pantry ingredients and requires no espresso machine or barista skills, making it accessible for DIYers looking to join in on the fun.