Coca-Cola fans are embracing creativity, using the company's Freestyle machines to craft unique soda combinations that have gained traction on social media. These user-generated recipes range from revivals of limited-edition flavors to entirely new creations, fueling a trend of "secret menu" drinks.
The recent surge in interest centers on recreating CherryBaby101, a popular flavor previously offered as part of Coca-Cola's "Internet's Favorite Mix" collection for Freestyle machines. Fans have shared recipes for the discontinued drink, with one widely circulated combination involving equal parts Cherry Sprite, Vanilla Sprite, and Grape Fanta, which many claim closely resembles the original.
The Coca-Cola company has acknowledged the trend, commenting on social media posts related to the "Internet's Favorite Mix." Other businesses with Freestyle machines, such as AMC Theatres and Wendy's, have also engaged with the trend online. Wendy's offers exclusive flavors like Dave's Cherry Cream Soda, while patrons have shared their own Wendy's-specific mixes, such as spicy nuggets paired with Cherry Sprite and Orange Coke, or Peach Sprite.
Beyond the CherryBaby101 revival, a variety of other custom soda mixes are circulating. These include combinations like Cherry Coke with Vanilla Coke, Mr. Pibb with Dr. Pepper, and a creamsicle-like blend of orange Hi-C with vanilla Hi-C. Singer Dua Lipa also shared a more unconventional Diet Coke recipe featuring pickle juice and jalapeños, which garnered attention and was even attempted by celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay.
This trend follows other recent social media food and drink crazes, such as the "Kool-Aid Pineapple" and "Fluffy Coke," where users create elaborate preparations of popular beverages. Coca-Cola has continued to evolve its Freestyle machine offerings, with a new version, the Freestyle Mini, reportedly in development.