Coca-Cola Original contains refined white sugar, artificial caramel coloring (E150d), and phosphoric acid. DIY version uses organic cane sugar, natural molasses for color, and organic citric acid for a cleaner, healthier cola without artificial additives.
Based on: Coca-Cola Original Taste
· Makes approximately 60 servings (enough for 60 cans worth)
· Serving: 330ml prepared cola (22ml syrup + 308ml carbonated water)
Why This Recipe is Seed Oil Free
Commercial Coca-Cola Original Taste from Coca-Cola 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.
Provides the stimulant effect of original cola (about 34mg per serving)
Sparkling water for serving
As needed for individual servings · Any unflavored sparkling water or SodaStream
Carbonation base for final cola drink preparation
Instructions
Step 1. Create the sugar syrup base by combining 2100g organic cane sugar with 1000ml filtered water in a heavy-bottomed saucepan. 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 crystallization. The mixture should be clear and slightly thickened. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature (about 30 minutes).
Step 2. Prepare the spice blend by combining 12g ground cinnamon with 2g ground nutmeg in a small bowl. Whisk together thoroughly to ensure even distribution. This dry blend will be easier to incorporate and prevents clumping when added to the liquid.
Step 3. Create the flavor concentrate by adding the spice blend to the cooled sugar syrup along with 45ml vanilla extract and 60ml blackstrap molasses. Stir vigorously for 3-4 minutes until molasses is completely incorporated and no streaks remain. The mixture should be deep brown and aromatic.
Step 4. Add the citric acid component by dissolving 15g organic citric acid in 60ml warm filtered water (about 40°C) in a separate small bowl. Stir until completely dissolved (about 2 minutes). Add this solution to the main syrup mixture and stir well. The citric acid provides the tangy bite replacing phosphoric acid.
Step 5. Incorporate essential oils carefully using a clean dropper or pipette. Add 3ml lime oil (36 drops), 2ml lemon oil (24 drops), and 1.5ml orange oil (18 drops) while stirring constantly. Essential oils are potent - count drops carefully as too much will make the cola bitter. Stir for 2-3 minutes to ensure oils are evenly distributed.
Step 6. Add caffeine safely by first dissolving 1.2g organic caffeine powder in 30ml warm water in a small container, stirring until completely dissolved (about 3-4 minutes). This prevents caffeine from clumping. Add to the main syrup and stir thoroughly for 2 minutes. This provides approximately 34mg caffeine per serving, matching commercial cola levels.
Step 7. Strain and store the finished syrup by pouring through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into sterilized glass bottles or jars. This removes any undissolved spice particles for a smooth final product. Store in refrigerator for up to 3 months. The syrup will keep longer than commercial products due to high sugar content but lacks preservatives so refrigeration is essential.
Step 8. To serve, mix 22ml (about 1.5 tablespoons) of cola syrup with 308ml chilled sparkling water in a glass filled with ice. Stir gently to combine - vigorous stirring will reduce carbonation. Taste and adjust syrup ratio if needed (some prefer stronger or weaker cola flavor). Serve immediately for best carbonation and flavor experience.
Storage
Store cola syrup in refrigerator in airtight glass containers for up to 3 months. Syrup may crystallize slightly if too cold - let come to room temperature and stir before use. Do not freeze as this will alter texture and flavor.
Cost Comparison
Cost per serving (homemade)$0.39
Cost per serving (store-bought)$1.25
Savings69%
Initial investment of $150 covers multiple batches with significant long-term savings. Bulk organic ingredients provide better value and eliminate artificial additives found in commercial cola.