As I poured the vibrant layers of my newest concoction, I felt an instant wave of nostalgia. The Midnight Malibu Dirty Soda isn’t just a drink—it’s a mini vacation in a glass.
You’ve got fizzy Dr Pepper, creamy coconut, and bold blackberry all swirling together like a beach sunset. It’s smooth, sweet, refreshing, and just the right kind of different. I love making this for chill nights, weekend hangouts, or when I just need a mental getaway. Let’s get into it!
Why I Love This Recipe
I first made the Midnight Malibu Dirty Soda on a hot summer night when I was craving something cold and tropical. I wanted something fun and fizzy but also creamy—and this hit every note. It’s been a go-to ever since.
- Tropical vibes in every sip
- Layered and beautiful—totally Instagram-worthy
- No fancy tools or cooking skills needed
- Easy to tweak for whatever mood I’m in
What You’ll Need
- 1 can Dr Pepper (cold)
- 2 tablespoons Coconut Cream (thick and creamy)
- 1–2 tablespoons Blackberry Syrup (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ teaspoon Vanilla Extract (pure)
- 1 cup Ice Cubes
Optional Garnish
- A few Fresh Blackberries
- 1 Slice of Pineapple
Pro Tips
- Use cold soda to keep the drink fizzy longer.
- Don’t skip the coconut cream + vanilla blend. It adds rich flavor and that signature look.
- Float the cream slowly using a spoon for the best layer effect.
- Adjust syrup to your taste. Some like it tangier, some sweeter.
- Serve right away. This drink’s all about fresh, fizzy vibes.
Tools Needed
- Tall glass
- Small mixing cup
- Spoon (for layering)
- Measuring spoons
Substitutions & Variations
- Coconut milk instead of cream for a lighter version
- Raspberry or strawberry syrup instead of blackberry
- Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamy dessert drink
- Use sparkling coconut water instead of Dr Pepper for a lighter twist
- Add a splash of lime juice if you like a tangy finish
Make Ahead Tips
- Mix Dr Pepper + syrup up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate.
- Blend coconut cream + vanilla and store in fridge for up to 3 days.
- Store all components separately. Assemble when ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Fill Your Glass with Ice
Fill a tall glass with 1 cup of ice cubes, leaving about 1 inch of space at the top.
Step 2: Add the Dr Pepper
Pour cold Dr Pepper into the glass until it’s about ¾ full. The bubbles should start fizzing right away.
Step 3: Add Blackberry Syrup
Drizzle 1–2 tablespoons of blackberry syrup over the soda. Watch it swirl down like a purple sunset.
Step 4: Mix Coconut Cream + Vanilla
In a separate cup, stir together 2 tablespoons coconut cream and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 5: Float the Cream Mixture
Slowly pour the coconut-vanilla mix over the back of a spoon so it floats gently on top of the soda.
Step 6: Stir & Garnish
Use a straw or spoon to gently swirl the drink once or twice. Top with a few blackberries or a pineapple slice.
Tips for Leftovers & Storage
- Best served right after making
- Store leftover Dr Pepper + syrup mix for 3 days in the fridge
- Keep extra coconut cream + vanilla mix in a sealed container for 1 week
- Do not store fully assembled drink—it’ll lose fizz and layering
Servings & Time
Makes: 2 tall glasses
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Macros (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200
- Carbs: 34g
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Sugar: 29g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Potassium: 150mg
- Vitamin C: 2mg
- Calcium: 2mg
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
The fizzy Dr Pepper adds carbonation that lifts the drink and gives it that refreshing feel. The thick coconut cream floats because it’s denser and fat-rich, creating a creamy top layer without mixing too quickly. Blackberry syrup adds both color and acidity, which balances the sweetness and creaminess, making every sip pop.
Common Mistakes
- Using room temp soda—kills the fizz fast.
- Pouring cream too fast—you lose the layered look.
- Adding too much syrup—can make it too sweet or heavy.
- Stirring too much—makes the drink look muddy.
What to Serve With
- Crispy Coconut Shrimp – tropical match made in heaven
- Mini Sliders – balances out the sweetness
- Fresh Fruit Salad – keeps things light
- Spicy Tacos – contrast the creamy soda with heat
- Dark Chocolate Brownies – berry + chocolate = yum
FAQ
What’s the best coconut cream to use?
Use full-fat, canned coconut cream for the richest, smoothest texture.
Can I make this dairy-free?
It already is! But you can use coconut milk if you want a lighter feel.
Is it okay to make this without the syrup?
You can, but it won’t have that berry pop. Sub in raspberry or strawberry syrup if needed.
Can I serve this in a pitcher?
Yes! Just keep the soda and syrup pre-mixed, then add ice and coconut mix right before serving.
Can I make this ahead?
Yep. Prep each part and keep them chilled. Assemble fresh to keep the fizz and layers.
Final Thoughts
Midnight Malibu Dirty Soda is more than just a drink—it’s a tropical escape in a glass. It’s vibrant, creamy, fizzy, and ridiculously easy to make. Try it once, and I promise it’ll become your go-to whenever you need a little sunshine in your day. Give it a try and let me know how yours turns out! Leave a comment with your version or any questions—I love hearing from you!
