
The news that Coca-Cola is discontinuing its Spiced flavor has left many with a craving that needs satisfying. While we mourn the loss of this unique twist on a classic, it’s also an opportunity to get creative in the kitchen. This article provides a collection of Coca-Cola-inspired recipes, focusing on how to recreate the spiced sensation at home and explore other delicious dishes that capture the essence of Coca-Cola’s signature sweetness and fizz. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure and discover new ways to enjoy your favorite soda!
**Understanding the Spiced Flavor Profile**
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s analyze what made Coca-Cola Spiced so appealing. It’s more than just regular Coca-Cola; it featured a warming blend of spices like cinnamon, clove, and a hint of ginger, creating a complex and comforting taste. The goal of these recipes is to emulate that layered flavor profile, offering a similar experience without relying on the discontinued product.
**Recreating the Spiced Sensation: DIY Coca-Cola Spiced Syrup**
The best way to recapture the Spiced Coca-Cola experience is to make your own spiced syrup. This allows you to control the intensity and customize the flavors to your liking. Here’s how:
**Ingredients:**
* 2 cups Coca-Cola (classic)
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 2 cinnamon sticks
* 1 teaspoon whole cloves
* 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
* 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* 1/4 teaspoon orange zest (optional, for brightness)
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a medium saucepan, combine the Coca-Cola, sugar, cinnamon sticks, cloves, ginger, nutmeg, and orange zest (if using).
2. **Simmer:** Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally until the sugar is completely dissolved.
3. **Reduce:** Reduce the heat to low and let the syrup simmer gently for 20-25 minutes, or until it has thickened slightly. The syrup should coat the back of a spoon.
4. **Strain:** Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the syrup cool completely. Once cooled, strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the spices and orange zest.
5. **Store:** Pour the syrup into a clean, airtight container (a glass jar works well). Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
**Using the Spiced Syrup:**
* **Coca-Cola Spiced Soda:** Mix 1-2 tablespoons of the spiced syrup with 8-10 ounces of plain Coca-Cola or club soda for a refreshing spiced soda. Adjust the amount of syrup to your preference.
* **Cocktails:** Add a splash of the spiced syrup to your favorite cocktails for a unique twist. It pairs well with rum, whiskey, and bourbon.
* **Coffee:** Stir a spoonful of the spiced syrup into your morning coffee for a warm and comforting beverage.
* **Baking:** Use the spiced syrup to flavor cakes, cookies, and other baked goods. It adds a delicious depth of flavor.
**Beyond the Syrup: Coca-Cola Inspired Recipes**
While the spiced syrup helps recapture that specific flavor, Coca-Cola’s unique taste lends itself to various culinary applications. These recipes utilize Coca-Cola as a key ingredient, creating surprisingly delicious results.
**1. Coca-Cola BBQ Sauce**
This sweet and tangy BBQ sauce is perfect for grilling chicken, ribs, or pulled pork. The Coca-Cola adds a unique depth of flavor that you won’t find in store-bought sauces.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup Coca-Cola
* 1 cup ketchup
* 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
* 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
* 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
* 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
* 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
* 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a medium saucepan, combine all the ingredients.
2. **Simmer:** Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
3. **Reduce:** Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until it has thickened to your desired consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. **Taste and Adjust:** Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more brown sugar for sweetness, vinegar for tanginess, or cayenne pepper for heat.
5. **Cool and Store:** Let the sauce cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
**2. Coca-Cola Braised Short Ribs**
Slow-braising short ribs in Coca-Cola creates incredibly tender and flavorful meat. The Coca-Cola tenderizes the meat and adds a subtle sweetness that complements the richness of the beef.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 pounds beef short ribs
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 large onion, chopped
* 2 carrots, chopped
* 2 celery stalks, chopped
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
* 1 cup Coca-Cola
* 1 cup beef broth
* 2 tablespoons tomato paste
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* 1 bay leaf
* Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
**Instructions:**
1. **Sear the Short Ribs:** Season the short ribs generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Sear the short ribs on all sides until browned. Remove the short ribs from the pot and set aside.
2. **Sauté Vegetables:** Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. **Add Tomatoes and Liquids:** Stir in the diced tomatoes, Coca-Cola, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. **Braise the Short Ribs:** Return the short ribs to the pot, making sure they are mostly submerged in the liquid. Cover the pot and transfer it to a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C).
5. **Cook:** Braise the short ribs for 3-3.5 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender. Check occasionally and add more beef broth if needed to keep the short ribs submerged.
6. **Shred and Serve:** Remove the short ribs from the pot and shred the meat with two forks. Discard the bay leaf. Skim any excess fat from the surface of the sauce. Return the shredded meat to the sauce and stir to combine.
7. **Garnish and Serve:** Garnish with fresh parsley and serve over mashed potatoes, polenta, or rice.
**3. Coca-Cola Cake**
This moist and decadent cake is a Southern classic. The Coca-Cola adds a unique flavor and helps to create a light and fluffy texture.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 cups all-purpose flour
* 2 cups granulated sugar
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
* 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
* 1 cup Coca-Cola
* 1/2 cup buttermilk
* 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
* 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
**Frosting:**
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
* 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
* 6 tablespoons Coca-Cola
* 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prep:** Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
3. **Melt Butter and Cocoa:** In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the cocoa powder and stir until smooth. Remove from heat.
4. **Add Coca-Cola:** Stir in the Coca-Cola to the butter and cocoa mixture. Bring to a simmer, then remove from heat.
5. **Combine Wet and Dry:** Pour the Coca-Cola mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
6. **Add Buttermilk, Eggs, and Vanilla:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Add this mixture to the batter and stir until just combined.
7. **Pour and Bake:** Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
8. **Bake:** Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. **Cool:** Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
**Make the Frosting:**
1. **Melt Butter and Cocoa:** In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the cocoa powder and stir until smooth. Remove from heat.
2. **Add Coca-Cola:** Stir in the Coca-Cola to the butter and cocoa mixture. Bring to a simmer, then remove from heat.
3. **Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla:** Gradually add the powdered sugar to the cocoa mixture, beating with an electric mixer until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract. Add chopped pecans if you like them.
4. **Frost the Cake:** Once the cake is completely cool, frost it with the Coca-Cola frosting.
**4. Coca-Cola Glazed Ham**
This recipe uses Coca-Cola to create a sweet and flavorful glaze for ham. The Coca-Cola caramelizes during baking, creating a beautiful and delicious crust.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 (8-10 pound) fully cooked ham
* 1 cup Coca-Cola
* 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
* 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
* 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prep:** Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Remove the ham from its packaging and place it in a roasting pan.
2. **Score the Ham:** Using a sharp knife, score the ham in a diamond pattern, about 1/4 inch deep.
3. **Make the Glaze:** In a saucepan, combine the Coca-Cola, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and cloves. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the brown sugar is dissolved.
4. **Brush with Glaze:** Brush the ham with about half of the glaze.
5. **Bake:** Bake the ham for 12-15 minutes per pound, or until heated through. Baste with the remaining glaze every 30 minutes.
6. **Rest:** Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
**5. Coca-Cola Marinated Chicken Wings**
The Coca-Cola tenderizes the chicken and provides a sticky, sweet glaze. These wings are perfect for parties or game day.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 pounds chicken wings
* 1 cup Coca-Cola
* 1/4 cup soy sauce
* 2 tablespoons honey
* 2 tablespoons ketchup
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
* 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
**Instructions:**
1. **Marinate Chicken Wings:** In a large bowl, whisk together the Coca-Cola, soy sauce, honey, ketchup, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. **Add Chicken Wings:** Add the chicken wings to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight.
3. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
4. **Arrange Wings:** Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the chicken wings in a single layer on the baking sheet.
5. **Bake:** Bake the chicken wings for 30-40 minutes, or until they are cooked through and the skin is crispy. Flip the wings halfway through cooking.
6. **Broil (Optional):** For extra crispy skin, broil the wings for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
7. **Serve:** Serve the Coca-Cola marinated chicken wings hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired.
**6. Coca-Cola Float Variations**
Let’s not forget the classic Coca-Cola float! Experiment with different ice cream flavors to find your perfect combination. Here are a few suggestions:
* **Classic Float:** Coca-Cola with vanilla ice cream.
* **Chocolate Overload:** Coca-Cola with chocolate ice cream and chocolate syrup.
* **Caramel Delight:** Coca-Cola with salted caramel ice cream and caramel sauce.
* **Peanut Butter Bliss:** Coca-Cola with peanut butter ice cream and a drizzle of peanut butter.
* **Spiced Float:** Use the homemade spiced syrup (see recipe above) in your Coca-Cola before adding vanilla ice cream.
**7. Coca-Cola Jell-O Salad**
A retro recipe that is surprisingly refreshing and always a crowd-pleaser.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 (6 ounce) package Coca-Cola flavored gelatin
* 2 cups boiling water
* 1 (20 ounce) can crushed pineapple, undrained
* 1 cup miniature marshmallows
* 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Dissolve Gelatin:** In a large bowl, dissolve the Coca-Cola gelatin in the boiling water. Stir until the gelatin is completely dissolved.
2. **Add Pineapple:** Stir in the crushed pineapple (with its juice).
3. **Chill:** Refrigerate for about 2 hours, or until the gelatin is partially set.
4. **Stir in Marshmallows and Nuts:** Stir in the miniature marshmallows and chopped nuts (if using).
5. **Refrigerate:** Return the mixture to the refrigerator and chill for several hours, or until completely set.
6. **Serve:** Cut into squares and serve chilled.
**8. Coca-Cola Meatloaf**
The Coca-Cola keeps the meatloaf moist and adds a subtle sweetness.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 pounds ground beef
* 1 cup bread crumbs
* 1/2 cup chopped onion
* 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
* 1 egg, beaten
* 1/2 cup Coca-Cola
* 1/4 cup ketchup
* 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
**Glaze:**
* 1/2 cup ketchup
* 1/4 cup Coca-Cola
* 1 tablespoon brown sugar
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, onion, green bell pepper, egg, Coca-Cola, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just combined. Do not overmix.
3. **Shape Meatloaf:** Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan.
4. **Make Glaze:** In a small bowl, combine the ketchup, Coca-Cola, and brown sugar for the glaze.
5. **Add Glaze:** Spread the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
6. **Bake:** Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
7. **Rest:** Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
**9. Coca-Cola Brownies**
Adds a deep chocolate flavor and extra fudginess.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup all-purpose flour
* 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
* 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/2 cup Coca-Cola
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. **Combine Dry:** In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. **Combine Wet:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. **Combine Wet and Dry:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. **Stir in Coca-Cola:** Stir in the Coca-Cola until the batter is smooth.
6. **Pour into Pan:** Pour the batter into a greased and floured 8×8 inch baking pan.
7. **Bake:** Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs.
8. **Cool:** Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.
**10. Coca-Cola Granita**
A refreshing and icy treat, perfect for hot days.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 cups Coca-Cola
* 2 tablespoons lemon juice (optional, for added zing)
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a shallow baking dish (about 9×13 inches), combine the Coca-Cola and lemon juice (if using).
2. **Freeze:** Place the dish in the freezer for about 30 minutes. The edges will begin to freeze.
3. **Scrape:** Use a fork to scrape the frozen edges toward the center of the dish, creating icy crystals.
4. **Repeat:** Return the dish to the freezer and repeat the scraping process every 30 minutes for about 2-3 hours, or until the entire mixture has formed into small, icy crystals.
5. **Serve:** Serve the Coca-Cola granita in chilled glasses or bowls.
**Tips and Variations**
* **Adjust Sweetness:** Adjust the amount of sugar in the recipes to suit your personal preference.
* **Experiment with Spices:** Feel free to experiment with different spices in the spiced syrup, such as cardamom, star anise, or allspice.
* **Use Diet Coca-Cola:** You can often substitute Diet Coca-Cola in these recipes, but be aware that it may affect the flavor and texture.
* **Add a Kick:** For an adult twist, add a shot of rum, whiskey, or bourbon to the Coca-Cola-based drinks.
* **Vegan Options:** Substitute vegan butter and other dairy alternatives to make the cake and other recipes vegan.
**Conclusion**
While the discontinuation of Coca-Cola Spiced may be disappointing, it’s also a chance to explore the versatility of Coca-Cola in the kitchen. These recipes offer a delicious way to recapture the spiced flavor and discover new and exciting ways to enjoy your favorite soda. So, get creative, experiment with flavors, and have fun cooking! Remember, the possibilities are endless when it comes to Coca-Cola-inspired cuisine. Happy cooking!