Pepsi Vanilla & Cream is here for the holidays in 2 versions

The limited-time cola comes in Original and Zero Sugar, in 12-packs and 20-ounce bottles. One early taster says the Zero Sugar version is the creamier one.

Pepsi has a new holiday flavor, and it’s a cozy one.

Pepsi Vanilla & Cream launched nationwide on Monday, Oct. 19, for a limited time, PepsiCo announced. It comes in two versions, regular and Zero Sugar, and you can find it in 12-packs of cans and 20-ounce bottles.

The flavor is exactly what it sounds like: Pepsi cola with vanilla and cream flavors added in. The Zero Sugar version has no sugar and no calories.

“Pepsi has always known how to make great-tasting cola even more exciting,” said Gustavo Reyna, Pepsi’s vice president of marketing.

What does Pepsi Vanilla & Cream taste like?

Creamy, with a little holiday spice, according to Sporked, which got early cans from Pepsi.

Sporked gave the regular version 8 out of 10 and called it a creamy take on classic Pepsi that fits the season. The Zero Sugar version got 7.5 out of 10. It’s actually creamier than the regular one, Sporked said, probably because the artificial sweeteners hit harder, but it’s also a lot sweeter.

One heads-up: the cans show a cookie, but don’t expect a cookie or baked-good flavor. It’s vanilla cream, not snickerdoodle.

How long will Pepsi Vanilla & Cream be around?

Pepsi is calling it a limited-time holiday flavor and didn’t give an end date. Plan on it sticking around through the holiday season, then disappearing.

That could change if it sells well. Pepsi’s last creamy flavor, Wild Cherry & Cream, was a hit, and Sporked’s reviewer said a strong holiday showing could convince Pepsi to keep Vanilla & Cream around.

Where can you buy Pepsi Vanilla & Cream?

It’s rolling out nationwide in the U.S., so look anywhere that sells Pepsi: grocery stores, big-box stores, convenience stores and gas stations. Pepsi didn’t name specific retailers.

Since it’s a new release, some stores may get it before others. If you don’t see it yet, check back in a week or two.

How do you make a Pepsi Vanilla & Cream float?

Easy. Grab a tall glass, add two scoops of vanilla ice cream, then slowly pour Pepsi Vanilla & Cream over the top. Pour it slowly so the foam doesn’t spill over.

The vanilla in the ice cream doubles up on the vanilla in the soda, so it tastes like a melted holiday milkshake. Sporked’s reviewer said he planned to make one with his next can.

For a lighter version, use the Zero Sugar cola and a no-sugar-added ice cream.

What other new Pepsi flavors are coming?

Pepsi has been busy. Pepsi Strawberry Shortcake is reportedly coming in February 2027, and a Pepsi Zero Sugar Zero Caffeine is reportedly on the way in 2027, too.

Creamy sodas are having a moment in general. Dr Pepper has an Ice Cream Float flavor coming in 2027, and plenty of brands have added “and cream” versions of their classics in the last few years.

And if you’re a KFC regular, you’ll have to get your Pepsi fix somewhere else soon. KFC is switching from Pepsi to Coca-Cola after nearly 40 years.

Is Pepsi Vanilla & Cream worth trying?

If you like cream soda, vanilla Coke or a classic float, probably yes. It’s a seasonal treat that won’t be around forever, and the 20-ounce bottle is an easy way to try it before buying a whole 12-pack.

If you were hoping for something more Christmas-y, like peppermint or gingerbread, this isn’t that. It’s more cozy dessert than holiday spice cabinet.

Has Pepsi made a vanilla cola before?

Yes. Vanilla cola isn’t new. Coca-Cola launched Vanilla Coke in 2002, and Pepsi answered with its own Pepsi Vanilla the next year.

The difference this time is the cream. Vanilla & Cream is meant to taste smoother and more dessert-like, closer to a cream soda than a straight vanilla cola.

Article compiled and written by Kambrea Pratt (editor-in-chief), Derek Gibbs (beat editor) and the Pirates & Princesses newsroom. Pirates & Princesses is part of WebReef Media.

Pirates and Princesses is your destination for Disney news, theme park updates, and the pop culture you love. From Disney cruises and travel tips to Disney fashion, food, collectibles, and movie news, PNP covers it all. Visit us at piratesandprincesses.net for daily coverage. Follow PNP on Facebook and Instagram, and listen to the Pirates & Princesses podcast on Apple Podcasts and YouTube.

Hat Tips:

• PepsiCo (Oct. 19, 2026), the launch date, formats, flavor and quote

• Sporked, Griffin Parker (Oct. 19, 2026), the taste test, ratings and Wild Cherry & Cream comparison

AI Disclosure: All articles are assigned, edited and reviewed by an experienced human editor before posting. Like most modern newsrooms, WebReef Media uses a variety of AI tools to help with accuracy and efficiency. Ways AI may be used in article creation include research, grammar, fact-checking and ideation, as well as occasional AI generated or enhanced thumbnails or graphics. No articles are generated or posted without human oversight or involvement.