Sipping on soda is a journey back in time, filled with memories of childhood and nostalgia. With legacy brands that have stood the test of time, the first taste of soda often harks back to those carefree days of youth. While traditional flavors hold a special place in our hearts, brands are constantly innovating by infusing new twists on familiar tastes.
This year, Pepsi surprised us all with a Shirley Temple-inspired Cherries and Cream cola. Meanwhile, Dr Pepper stepped up their game with a Blackberry variation reminiscent of the blue raspberry flavors we adored in our younger years. And now, Coca-Cola is joining the fun by introducing a super nostalgic take on their classic formula: Orange Cream.
Last year saw a resurgence in popularity of the ice cream truck-inspired flavor combination, so it’s no wonder that Coca-Cola decided to jump on the bandwagon. Described as a blend of “refreshing orange and smooth, creamy vanilla flavors,” this new concoction aims to delight our taste buds with a trip down memory lane.
Curious to know how this Orange Cream Coca-Cola fares in the taste department? Our team embarked on a tasting journey to provide you with our unfiltered insights. So, if you’re eager to discover the flavor profile of this intriguing soda, read on.
The moment you crack open a bottle of Orange Cream Coca-Cola, you’re greeted with a burst of orange fragrance that fills the air. However, upon taking that first sip, the citrus notes seem to fall a bit short. “I’m getting more of the orange scent than the actual taste,” remarks our Food Editor, Taylor Ann Spencer. “Not sure if I’m let down or content with that observation.”
The presence of orange in the drink is subtle, lending a hint of candy-like sweetness to the overall experience. Don’t anticipate a sharp or fresh citrus kick—this orange flavor leans more towards the artificial sweetness found in its frozen treat counterpart.
On the flip side, the creamy vanilla essence shines through, adding a touch of luxury to the original recipe. Rather than resembling an Orange Creamsicle, the soda leans more towards a creamy soda with a delicate citrus undertone. While it may not perfectly mirror the inspiration, the creamy vanilla infusion adds a welcomed layer of richness to the beverage.
It’s noteworthy that Orange Cream Coca-Cola boasts a sweeter profile compared to the classic rendition. The heightened sweetness proved to be a deterrent for some of our editors, preventing them from fully committing to a full can. However, if you have a penchant for cream soda-style flavors, your palate might welcome this new offering with open arms.
While Orange Cream Coca-Cola might not perfectly capture the essence of the original recipe, it presents a playful twist on the iconic soda that merits at least one taste test. Additionally, for those watching their sugar intake, a zero sugar version of the new flavor is also available. Officially hitting the shelves today at major retailers across the
