Why Jessi Draper’s Favorite Dirty Soda Has “TSLOMW” Cast at Swig

Forget Don Draper—it’s Jessi Draper from The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives who’s caught my attention. Recently, the reality star and entrepreneur shared her favorite dirty soda recipe with Tasty.

Person sipping iced coffee through a straw, wearing a casual button-up shirt, with strawberries and a peanut butter sandwich nearby

What Exactly is Dirty Soda?

Dirty soda originated in Utah around 2010, created by blending fountain sodas with flavored syrups, coffee creamer, and other unique ingredients.

Close-up of a hand pouring syrup into a tall glass of iced coffee. Strawberries are nearby on a table. Text: 'English toffee syrup.'

Its inception was influenced by Utah’s significant number of members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, known as Mormons. While they abstain from alcohol, coffee, and tea, soft drinks are acceptable, leading to the creation of dirty soda.

Dirty soda only recently gained national attention, thanks in part to viral TikToks and appearances on TSLOMW, which regularly featured the popular Utah dirty soda chain, Swig.

Two women holding colorful drinks with straws, standing in front of Swig-themed decor, smiling and interacting

Last year, I reviewed New York’s first dedicated dirty soda shop, Cool Sips, which opened in 2024. Since then, brands like Pepsi, Mountain Dew, and Mug have begun offering dirty soda-inspired beverages. Chains like McDonald’s and Taco Bell have also been experimenting with dirty soda items on their menus.

Limited edition Twizzlers Straws in coconut, lime, and vanilla flavors, packaging shows a drink with a lime slice — Adriana Chavez

Now, let’s return to Jessi. Her dirty soda features Dr. Pepper, coffee creamer, and two unique syrup flavors. I had to give it a try myself.

Close-up of a bubbly iced drink in a glass labeled 'Jessi's Dirty Soda.'

Ingredients

To make Jessi’s dirty soda, gather the following:

Dr. Pepper Diet can, Chobani vanilla coffee creamer, Torani English toffee syrup, and Torani strawberry syrup bottles on a countertop — Adriana Chavez

STEP 1: Fill a glass with crushed ice.

A clear glass jar filled halfway with ice, placed on a marble surface — Adriana Chavez

STEP 2: Pour in Dr. Pepper.

Adriana Chavez

STEP 3: Add a capful of toffee syrup.

Hand pouring liquid from a bottle cap into a glass jar filled with iced cola — Adriana Chavez

STEP 4: Then, add a capful of strawberry syrup.

Hand holding a small cap pouring liquid into a jar filled with ice and dark beverage on a marble surface — Adriana Chavez

STEP 5: Finally, add the vanilla creamer.

Cream being poured into a glass jar of iced coffee — Adriana Chavez

STEP 6: Mix well, sip, and adjust to your taste.

Adriana Chavez

I added another splash of strawberry syrup and some cream until I attained the desired shade of Jessi’s drink.

How Did It Taste?

Here’s my review: I enjoyed this much more than anticipated. The combination of ingredients might seem unconventional to those not familiar with dirty soda, but nothing felt out of balance while drinking it. The flavors melded beautifully, though identifying individual notes was challenging. Despite boosting the strawberry syrup for a more pronounced flavor, the vanilla creamer dominated the overall taste. Adding further syrup would have made it excessively sweet. Ultimately, I would compare its flavor to a Good Humor Strawberry Shortcake Bar or a root beer float.

Iced dirty soda in a glass jar on a marble surface — Adriana Chavez

Note that, while enjoying a dirty soda, the cream may separate a bit. A quick stir will easily blend it back together.

Hand stirring iced coffee in a mason jar with a metal straw — Adriana Chavez

While nothing beats a classic soda for a casual drink at home, I’d definitely order this next time I’m at Cool Sips. Who knows, maybe Jessi will invite me to join her at Swig—I wouldn’t even ask for complimentary services at JZ Styles.

Person holding iced coffee in front of a laptop screen displaying a woman speaking in a video — Adriana Chavez

Have you ever tried dirty soda? Share your thoughts in the comments!

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Key Takeaways

Dirty soda originated in Utah around 2010.
This drink combines fountain sodas, flavored syrups, and cream.
It’s especially popular among members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Jessi Draper has shared her favorite recipe featuring Dr. Pepper and unique syrups.
Dirty soda is growing in popularity nationwide, with various brands featured in fast-food menus.

FAQ

What is dirty soda?

Dirty soda is a beverage that mixes fountain soda with flavored syrups and cream.

Where did dirty soda originate?

It originated in Utah, influenced by the local culture and the consumption preferences of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Can I customize the flavors of dirty soda?

Yes, you can adjust syrup flavors and cream amounts to suit your preference.

Is dirty soda sweet?

It can be sweet, depending on the syrups used, but you can customize it to be less sweet.

Where can I find dirty soda?

Many regional shops serve it, and major chains like McDonald’s and Taco Bell have started including it on their menus.