The Vintage Dr Pepper Drink Experiencing a Comeback

While soda is thought to be a classic summer drink, cool and refreshing on a warm day, did you know it can also be enjoyed heated up? You may have never heard of it, but the Schuss-Boomer is a retro cocktail with hot Dr Pepper as the base. Yes, hot Dr Pepper. And what’s more, the winter warmer is experiencing a bit of a comeback. So break out the slow cooker, pull up a chair, and let’s dive into the history of the Schuss-Boomer.

What Is a Schuss-Boomer?

According to the Dr Pepper Museum, the Schuss-Boomer was invented in September 1958. The story goes that Wesby R. Parker, the then-president of the Dr Pepper Company, was visiting a bottling facility in the middle of a blizzard. While there, a salesman joked about needing a hot drink to sell during this type of weather, which inspired Parker to begin experimenting with ways to serve warm Dr Pepper.

Before long he had created the perfect concoction, a blend of warmed Dr Pepper and fresh lemon slices, which resulted in a spiced, soothing drink that could be marketed to the masses.

After an initial hesitation from staff, who were used to marketing Dr Pepper as crisp and cool, Parker’s idea took off, and advertisements soon began circulating urging consumers to try the hot Dr Pepper drink. They often used the taglines “Devilishly Different” or “Winter Warmer”.

The combination of warm Dr Pepper and lemon grew in popularity, and it became a favorite mixer for rum, consequently gaining the name Schuss-Boomer (a 1950s term for a skier who schusses quickly down the slopes). Though the Schuss-Boomer’s popularity seemed to die down sometime after the ’60s, Hot Dr Pepper is experiencing somewhat of a comeback on social media.

What does it taste like, you ask? It may sound odd, but the warm spice notes in Dr Pepper’s signature 23 flavors only become more pronounced when heated. The lemon brightens things up, and the rum—well, that just makes everything a little cozier. Think of the Schuss-Boomer like the lazy man’s Hot Toddy.

How to Make a Schuss-Boomer

If you want to recreate the beloved Schuss-Boomer at home, you only need three ingredients:

• A can of Dr Pepper
• Fresh lemon slices
• Your favorite rum (optional)

All you need to do is place a lemon slice and a shot of rum (if you want it spiked) to a mug. Then add the Dr Pepper to a small pot and heat until warm but not boiling. Carefully pour it into the mug and let it sit for a minute or two to allow the lemon to steep. Enjoy immediately.

For a larger batch, you can scale up the recipe and serve it in a slow cooker to keep it warm. It’s the perfect party drink that’s guaranteed to get people talking.