Organic Cola Concentrate (Natural Coke Alternative)
Commercial Coke contains high fructose corn syrup and artificial caramel color. This DIY version uses organic coconut sugar and blackstrap molasses for natural sweetening and coloring, eliminating processed corn syrup while maintaining the classic cola flavor profile through organic vanilla, cinnamon, and citrus oils.
Based on: Coke Original Taste
· Makes approximately 30 servings (12 fl oz each)
· Serving: 12 fl oz (355 ml)
Why This Recipe is Seed Oil Free
Commercial Coke Original Taste from Coke often contains inflammatory seed oils like canola, soybean, or sunflower oil. This homemade version replaces them with healthier fats like butter, ghee, coconut oil, or avocado oil — giving you the same great taste without the processed oils.
The original Coke Original Taste may also contain artificial dyes. Check it on DyeFreeCheck to find out.
Natural caramel coloring and adds subtle mineral complexity instead of artificial caramel color
Redmond Real Salt
1/4 teaspoon (1.5g) · Redmond Real Sea Salt Fine
Provides the 45mg sodium per serving and enhances overall flavor balance
Instructions
Step 1. Create the sugar syrup base: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine 1,170g (5.25 cups) organic coconut sugar with 3 cups (720ml) filtered water. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon until sugar completely dissolves (about 8-10 minutes). Do not let it boil vigorously as this can create unwanted caramelization. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature - this is your simple syrup base.
Step 2. Prepare the flavor concentrate: In a small glass bowl, combine 45ml (3 tablespoons) organic vanilla extract, 4g (2 teaspoons) organic cinnamon powder, 1.5g (1/4 teaspoon) Redmond Real Salt, and 30ml (2 tablespoons) blackstrap molasses. Whisk vigorously for 2 minutes until the cinnamon is fully incorporated and no lumps remain. The mixture should be dark brown and aromatic.
Step 3. Add citrus oils carefully: Essential oils are potent - measure precisely using a medicine dropper or small measuring spoon. Add 2.5ml (1/2 teaspoon) organic lemon essential oil and 1.25ml (1/4 teaspoon) organic lime essential oil to the flavor mixture. Whisk immediately for 30 seconds to prevent oil separation. The mixture should smell bright and citrusy with vanilla undertones.
Step 4. Incorporate acid and caffeine: Add 2.5ml (1/2 teaspoon) food-grade phosphoric acid and 1g (about 1/4 teaspoon) organic caffeine powder to the flavor mixture. Whisk thoroughly for 1 full minute - caffeine powder can clump, so ensure complete dissolution. The mixture should taste tart and slightly bitter from the caffeine.
Step 5. Combine and mature: Pour the cooled sugar syrup into the flavor concentrate. Stir vigorously with a large spoon for 2-3 minutes until completely homogenous. The final concentrate should be dark brown, aromatic, and slightly thick. Transfer to a clean glass jar or bottle and let it mature in the refrigerator for 24 hours - this allows flavors to meld and develop the complex cola taste.
Step 6. Usage instructions: To serve, mix 2 tablespoons (30ml) of concentrate with 12 fl oz (355ml) of cold carbonated water in a tall glass. Stir gently to combine - over-stirring will reduce carbonation. Serve over ice immediately. The concentrate should be stored refrigerated and used within 3-4 weeks for best flavor. Shake concentrate before each use as natural settling may occur.
Step 7. Carbonation options: Use a SodaStream, home carbonation system, or high-quality sparkling water like San Pellegrino. For best results, carbonate plain filtered water to high fizz level, then add the cold concentrate. This prevents excessive foaming and maintains proper carbonation levels throughout consumption.
Storage
Store concentrate in refrigerator for up to 4 weeks in airtight glass container. Shake before each use. Do not freeze as this may cause flavor separation.
Cost Comparison
Cost per serving (homemade)$0.83
Cost per serving (store-bought)$1.25
Savings34%
Initial investment is higher due to buying concentrates and oils that last for many batches. After first purchase, subsequent batches cost primarily coconut sugar ($19) making long-term cost per serving about $0.65.