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Credit: Collette Reitz
Dirty sodas, a trend rising in popularity across the country, are quickly becoming accessible at chains like Dunkin’ and McDonald’s. With their recent launches, these drinks reflect regional flavors and preferences. I set out to explore the unique interpretations of dirty soda from both brands, eager to discover how they compare.
Whenever I drink soda, my one request is that it has lots of ice (pebble ice, if I can get it), but I might soon require my soda to also be “dirty,” thanks to two new offerings from Dunkin’ and McDonald’s. Dirty soda isn’t a new idea — if you’re familiar with Swig, you know it’s been all the rage in certain parts of the country for years — but getting a dirty soda from a particular Boston-born coffee chain or the Golden Arches is very new; they dropped on April 29 and May 6, respectively.
With this drinkable phenomenon now so easily available to me in Chicago, I had to try both chains’ interpretations of dirty soda. Here’s what I thought about the respective versions from McDonald’s and Dunkin’ and how they stack up to each other.
Credit: Collette Reitz
What Is Dirty Soda?
The first time I saw someone pour creamer into a glass of soda, I didn’t think: I gotta have that. But after trying these sips, maybe I should’ve. The basic recipe for a dirty soda is a soda base, cream, and usually a flavored syrup.
Shops like Swig, which opened in 2010, have dozens of different flavor combos. In popular media, you might see dirty sodas and Swig featured in various Utah-based shows. According to Eater, dirty sodas trace back to Utah’s Mormon culture: Practicing Mormons generally don’t drink coffee or other “hot drinks” due to their beliefs, which led to the creation of dirty soda to satisfy cravings for something sweeter and more dynamic.
According to The Wright State Guardian, there have been discussions within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints about whether the prohibition on “hot drinks” includes caffeine at large. However, it was clarified in 2012 that the restriction specifically applies to coffee and tea, thus allowing for dirty soda.
Credit: Collette Reitz
My Honest Review of the Dunkin’ Dirty Soda
Dunkin’ opts for “coffee milk” rather than traditional cream and merges it with Pepsi, finishing it with sweet cold foam. This drink appeared incredibly creamy, boasting a light tan hue. My initial sip revealed a rich, layered flavor. Despite the thick cold foam, the distinct taste of Pepsi shone through, complemented by the coffee milk on the back of my palate. However, this beverage is undeniably sweet, and subsequent sips tasted progressively creamier and sweeter, making for an inconsistent flavor experience.
The aroma was intensely sweet. While I appreciated the hint of coffee from the coffee milk, I would likely make a few adjustments upon ordering again, such as requesting less coffee milk and a lighter touch with the cold foam.
Credit: Collette Reitz
My Honest Review of McDonald’s Dirty Dr. Pepper
In contrast, McDonald’s dirty soda resembles classic soda more closely, with a deep caramel hue and notable carbonation. The Dirty Dr. Pepper combines Dr. Pepper with a hint of vanilla flavor and is topped with cold foam. The vanilla aroma was prominent as I took a whiff, and the first sip delivered a satisfying soda flavor. While I initially struggled to identify it as Dr. Pepper, the taste resembled a soda float, which I found delightful. In this drink, the soda truly shines, making it more enjoyable to keep sipping.
My Final Thoughts on the New Dirty Sodas
For my taste, the McDonald’s Dirty Dr. Pepper stands out as the more soda-forward choice that I’d likely order again. However, the intriguing coffee milk in the Dunkin’ Dirty Soda could tempt me to revisit it with my suggested modifications. While I wouldn’t say I’m immediately craving either drink, I’ve developed a curiosity about dirty sodas.
Key Takeaways
- Dirty soda combines soda, cream, and flavored syrup, evolving into a popular beverage option.
- Dunkin’s version features coffee milk blended with Pepsi and sweet cold foam.
- McDonald’s Dirty Dr. Pepper showcases a stronger soda flavor with vanilla undertones.
- Both drinks cater to different flavor profiles, appealing to diverse preferences.
- Adjustments can enhance the flavor experience depending on individual taste.
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FAQ
What is dirty soda?
Dirty soda is a beverage that combines soda, cream, and flavored syrups, often served over ice.
Where did dirty sodas originate?
Dirty sodas have roots in Utah’s Mormon culture, evolving as a caffeine-free alternative for those who abstain from coffee and tea.
How do Dunkin’ and McDonald’s dirty sodas differ?
Dunkin’ features coffee milk and Pepsi, while McDonald’s uses Dr. Pepper with vanilla flavor, resulting in distinct taste experiences.
