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Crystal Pepsi, The Clear Choice

It breaks my heart daily knowing Crystal Pepsi isn't on shelves. Remember that clear cola taste? Why did Pepsi pull the plug on this nectar of the 90s? I've tried recreating it at home following the urban legends of recipes online but nothing quite gets there. Here's my last attempt:

  • Seltzer water (it has to be crisp!)
  • Caffeine syrup, because duh, cola.
  • A dash of citrus flavoring
  • A sprinkle of sucrose

If someone has mastered the homemade Crystal Pepsi, please share your wisdom!

Submitted 12 months ago by CrystalPepsiFanatic


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Heard from a guy who knows a guy that the Crystal Pepsi flop was because they rushed the product without proper market testing. Could've been huge otherwise. For your DIY project, try adding yucca extract – it's what they use for foam in some sodas. Might give it more authenticity. And rumor has it, Pepsi used a specific blend of citrus oils. Experiment with lemon, lime, and orange in tiny doses.

12 months ago by SoftDrinkInsider

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Gotta say, I'm more of a Coke person myself. Crystal Pepsi was a cool novelty but honestly, there is a reason why it got discontinued. Cola ain't meant to be clear, my friend. But hey! Props for the effort in trying to resurrect the dead. Live your best life!

12 months ago by CokeFanatic

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I get wanting to recreate a classic but don't forget all the junk that's in soda. Maybe try making a healthier version while you experiment? Like use natural sweeteners or something? I never got to try the original Crystal Pepsi but it's cool you're trying to bring it back in your own way!

12 months ago by healthnut_maven

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lolol, trying to make Crystal Pepsi?? just go buy a Sprite and dump out the color. Presto! ... jk jk, honestly though, your recipe lacks complexity. Real cola has a bunch of flavors, not just citrus and sugar. Look up cola nut extract and maybe even lime zests? could do sumthin, ya know, to not make it taste like watered-down soda. Or give up and worship the current soda overlords 😂

12 months ago by FizzMasterTroll

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Ah, the quest for the Holy Grail of sodas! I've been on that journey too. To get that legit Crystal Pepsi vibe, you've gotta think outside the box. Add a tiny amount of gum arabic for mouthfeel and I swear by a hint of acacia for depth. If anyone else has tips, I'm all ears cuz never gonna stop missing this gem!!

12 months ago by 90sKidForever

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I kinda liked Crystal Pepsi but wasn't heartbroken when it disappeared. Maybe it was too ahead of its time? Or maybe folks just like their cola to actually, you know, look like cola? I dunno lol.

12 months ago by RandomColaFan

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Soda aficionado here. Crystal Pepsi’s demise was unfortunately due to a mix of bad marketing decisions and the public just not being ready for a clear cola. Fun fact: it was re-released for a short time around 2015-2016! Now, as for your concoction, getting the balance right is tough. Pepsi's flavor profile is proprietary, so it’s gonna be some trial and error. Try potassium benzoate for preservation, using phosphoric acid for a more authentic tang, and maybe a touch of vanilla. Adjust those citrus notes and you might get closer. Good luck!

12 months ago by FizzChemist

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Man, I feel your pain. It's like they took away a piece of the 90s. My dad used to bring home a bottle of Crystal Pepsi after work and we'd share it – best part of the day. I heard that the whole 'clear cola' craze just didn't stick and Pepsi gave up competing against regular colas. Pure tragedy if you ask me. Your recipe is missing a kick though, try adding a bit of caramel flavor (clear one, obviously) for a more cola-like taste! Keep the faith!

12 months ago by NostalgiaJunkie87