Cozy Colas: Dirty Soda Recipes for Fall

Move over PSL. There is a new trending fall drink.

As we settle into autumn, familiar flavors return to the table like the warm spices of cinnamon and seasonal produce like apple and pumpkins. For years, coffee and cider have been celebrated beverages of the season, but this year it’s soda. 

The “dirty soda” phenomenon, long rooted in Utah’s drive-thru culture, has entered the mainstream thanks to the rise of influencers from the region, Hulu’s mega popular “Secret Lives of Mormon Wives,” and the rapid expansion of “Swig,” a popular custom soda drive-thru. Indy got its own few locations in the last year. This past summer’s graduation season saw the chocolate fondue fountain get replaced by “dirty soda bars” encouraging guests to create their own concoction at backyard parties. The trend is even being elevated by bartenders who see it as a potential path to a sophisticated, non-alcoholic cocktail.

By layering syrups, creams, and spices, a simple soda transforms into something complex with the fizz carrying the flavors in new, surprising ways. Imagine a cinnamon-spiced Coke or an apple flavored soda brightened with pie spices, or even lean into crisp, spooky nights with a wizardly buttery “beer.” These drinks deliver fall comfort in a new, refreshing form. 

Check out a few of our favorite fall takes on Dirty Sodas. Each just needs the following ingredients and a simple stir to combine before you give them a try. Celebrate the flavors of the season with this fun trend!

Buttery Beer

This is a blend of rootbeer and butterscotch is sure to set the Halloween vibes.

12 ounces rootbeer

1 teaspoon butterscotch syrup

2 tablespoons vanilla creme

Creamsicle 

A creamsicle is slightly “summer,” but we love the look of its bright orange for a Halloween party. Put in clear cups marked with sharpie Jack-o’-lantern faces for extra holiday fun.

12 ounces Orange soda

2 tablespoons vanilla creamer

Cinnamon Vanilla Cola

The mix of creamy and spicy make this a great pick for a fall treat. Kick it up for a tailgate or bonfire by making it a little boozy with a shot of RumChata.

12 ounce Cola

1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

1 teaspoon vanilla simple syrup

2 tablespoons Half and Half

Campfire Cola

This indulgent treat is perfect for a bonfire night or late season camping.

12 ounces Cola

2 tablespoons heavy cream

1 teaspoon vanilla syrup or toasted marshmallow syrup (Toasted Marshmallow syrup is hard to find–you may need to get online.)

Marshmallow fluff and chocolate drizzle are fun additions to line the cup!

Apple Pie

No need to wait for a day at the orchard for this one. A riff on this is using seasonal “Crisp Apple” Ollipop subbed for the soda and juice for a slight hack, yet similar idea!

12 ounces cream soda

1/2 cup apple cider or apple juice

1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

2 tablespoons vanilla coffee creamer

Chai Cream

Get the warm flavors of chai in this refreshing dirty soda. Perfect for a fall day!

12 ounces cream soda

½ cup chai concentrate

1 teaspoon vanilla simple syrup

2 tablespoons heavy cream