Flaming Dr. Pepper

The Flaming Dr Pepper consists of a shot glass filled with amaretto topped with a small float of high-proof rum or overproof spirit, which is then ignited. The flaming shot glass is quickly dropped into a glass of beer, and the resulting flavor is said to mimic Dr Pepper soda despite containing no actual Dr Pepper.

The taste illusion comes from the combination of amaretto's cherry-almond sweetness and the caramel, yeasty qualities of the beer, which together approximate the distinctive spiced cola flavor profile of Dr Pepper. The brief flaming step caramelizes a small amount of the spirit and adds a subtle toasty warmth to the finished drink.

Safety is essential when preparing any flaming cocktail. The high-proof rum float should be ignited carefully with a long lighter, and the shot glass should be dropped into the beer glass immediately after ignition to extinguish the flame. Guests should never attempt to drink from a glass while it is still burning, and both bartender and guests should keep hair and clothing away from the flame.