Smalls Sliders Brings Back Dr Pepper Swirl and Launches Dirty Dr Pepper to Tap Into Booming Dirty Soda Trend

Smalls Sliders is doubling down on its partnership with Dr Pepper, bringing back a fan-favorite milkshake and introducing a new drink that taps into one of the fastest-growing beverage trends. The Dr Pepper Swirl, a hand-spun shake made with a creamy vanilla base and ripples of Dr Pepper syrup, returns to the menu nationwide after a limited-time run last year. Joining it for the first time is the Dirty Dr Pepper, which combines ice-cold Dr Pepper with real strawberry puree and a splash of creamy vanilla. Both limited-time items are available through October 11.

The move comes as consumer interest in dirty sodas—typically soda mixed with cream, syrups, or fruit purees—has skyrocketed. According to Yelp data cited in the announcement, searches for dirty soda climbed 600% year over year and hit an all-time high in May 2026. By adding its own version, Smalls Sliders is positioning itself to capture a slice of this booming demand. The Dirty Dr Pepper offers a refreshing, sweet alternative to traditional sodas and milkshakes, while the returning Swirl provides a nostalgic, creamy treat that has already proven popular with customers.

"Guests talk about the Dr Pepper Swirl all year, so we are excited to bring it back and give guests a second way to sip," said Michael Alberici, Chief Marketing Officer for Smalls Sliders. "The Swirl is creamy, nostalgic and hand-spun, and the Dirty Dr Pepper arrives right as guests are chasing dirty sodas everywhere they go."

The limited-time offerings are designed to pair with Smalls Sliders' core menu of fresh, cooked-to-order cheeseburger sliders and seasoned waffle fries. The brand, known for its signature Smorange-colored shipping containers called "Cans," has grown rapidly since its first location in 2019 and now has more than 375 Cans open or under development across 30 states. Backed by investors including 10 Point Capital and former NFL star Drew Brees, Smalls Sliders continues to expand its footprint and innovate its menu to attract new customers and keep loyal fans engaged.

For those looking to try the new drinks or learn more about the brand, additional information is available at www.smallssliders.com. Dr Pepper, a brand of Keurig Dr Pepper, Inc., has been a staple in American beverages since 1885 and offers a variety of flavors. More details about Dr Pepper can be found at DrPepper.com or keurigdrpepper.com.

The reintroduction of the Dr Pepper Swirl and the debut of the Dirty Dr Pepper highlight how beverage trends can influence quick-service restaurant menus. As dirty sodas continue to gain traction, Smalls Sliders' timely launch could drive traffic and reinforce its reputation for offering innovative, craveable items. With the limited-time window ending October 11, the brand is creating urgency for customers to visit and experience these new flavors before they disappear.