Ingredients

Scale

To prepare a classic Dirty Dr Pepper, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that come together to create the perfect balance of sweetness, fizz, and smoothness. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 oz. amaretto liqueur – This almond-flavored liqueur is the key ingredient that provides the nutty, slightly sweet undertones that help mimic the taste of Dr Pepper.
½ oz. spiced rum (optional, for added depth) – While not always included, spiced rum adds a warm, slightly vanilla-cinnamon undertone that enhances the drink’s complexity.
½ pint light beer (lager or pilsner works best) – A light beer provides the right amount of carbonation without overpowering the drink with bitterness or heaviness.
½ pint cola (Coke or Pepsi preferred) – The cola is essential for the drink’s sweetness and caramelized flavor, which pairs beautifully with the amaretto and beer.
Ice (if serving as a mixed drink instead of a bomb shot) – Keeping the drink cold enhances its refreshing quality and prevents it from tasting too sweet or syrupy.

For garnish (optional):

Maraschino cherry – Adds a pop of color and a touch of extra sweetness.
Lemon wedge – A squeeze of lemon can provide a subtle citrusy brightness that balances the sweetness of the drink.

Instructions

Method 1: Bomb Shot Style

This preparation method is best suited for parties, drinking games, or casual get-togethers, as it involves a fun and interactive way of consuming the drink. The process is quick and easy, making it perfect for large gatherings.

Step 1: Fill a pint glass halfway with light beer, ensuring that there’s enough room left in the glass for the additional ingredients without causing it to overflow when the shot is dropped in.

Step 2: In a separate shot glass, carefully pour 1 oz. of amaretto. If using spiced rum, mix ½ oz. of spiced rum into the shot glass as well to add extra depth to the drink.

Step 3: Hold the shot glass above the pint glass and drop it in, allowing the amaretto to mix with the beer instantly.

Step 4: Quickly top off the glass with cola, which helps create the signature Dr Pepper-like flavor. Drink immediately for the best effect, as this preparation method is designed to be consumed quickly before the carbonation dissipates.

Method 2: Mixed Cocktail Style

For those who prefer a more balanced, smoother sipping experience, the mixed cocktail version is the ideal choice. This method allows you to enjoy the flavors without the quick consumption required for a bomb shot.

Step 1: Fill a highball glass with ice, ensuring that it is well chilled before adding any liquids.

Step 2: Pour 1 oz. of amaretto into the glass, followed by ½ oz. of spiced rum if you want to add extra warmth and complexity to the drink.

Step 3: Add ½ pint of light beer to the glass, pouring it slowly to prevent excessive foaming.

Step 4: Gently top off the drink with ½ pint of cola, pouring it over the back of a spoon to maintain the layers if desired.

Step 5: Stir the drink lightly to combine all the ingredients and garnish with a maraschino cherry or a lemon wedge if desired. Enjoy at a leisurely pace while savoring the complex flavors.

Notes

✔ Always use a light beer to avoid overwhelming the drink’s sweetness with too much bitterness.

✔ Cola choice matters—while the drink doesn’t contain actual Dr Pepper, brands like Coke or Pepsi help create the most authentic flavor.

✔ When making the bomb shot version, drink it quickly before the carbonation dissipates, ensuring the best taste and experience.

✔ For the mixed cocktail version, gently stir the drink to maintain the perfect balance of flavors while keeping the fizz intact.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes

Nutrition

Calories: 200-250
Sodium: 15mg
Protein: 0g