Smalls Sliders is betting on the enduring appeal of Dr Pepper with the return of its Dr Pepper Swirl milkshake and the debut of a new Dirty Dr Pepper beverage. Both limited-time items are available at Smalls Sliders locations nationwide through October 11, the company announced.
The Dr Pepper Swirl, which had a limited run last year, is a hand-spun shake made with a creamy vanilla base and ripples of Dr Pepper syrup. Its return follows sustained customer demand. “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 new Dirty Dr Pepper starts with an ice-cold Dr Pepper, adds real strawberry puree, and finishes with a splash of creamy vanilla. The drink enters the menu as the dirty soda category gains mainstream traction: Yelp searches for dirty soda climbed 600% year over year and hit an all-time high in May 2026, according to the press release.
The launch matters because it positions Smalls Sliders within a fast-growing beverage trend while also capitalizing on a proven fan favorite. By offering both a nostalgic shake and a trendy dirty soda, the brand aims to drive foot traffic and reinforce its reputation for playful, limited-time offerings. The drinks pair with Smalls Sliders’ fresh cooked-to-order sliders and seasoned waffle fries.
Smalls Sliders operates from its signature Smorange-colored shipping containers, called “Cans.” The brand has grown from its first location in 2019 to more than 375 Cans open or under development across 30 states. It was founded by restaurateur Brandon Landry and is backed by 10 Point Capital and former NFL star Drew Brees as investors. For more information, visit www.smallssliders.com.
Dr Pepper, a brand of Keurig Dr Pepper, Inc., is the oldest major soft drink in the United States. Since 1885, its 23 flavors have earned a loyal following. The brand is available in Regular, Diet, Caffeine Free, Cherry, Zero Sugar, Cream Soda, Blackberry, and Strawberries & Cream varieties. For more information, visit DrPepper.com or keurigdrpepper.com.
Frequent Sliders members receive early access to new menu drops, and guests can join the loyalty program online or in the Smalls Sliders app. The dual launch underscores how beverage innovation and nostalgia are increasingly central to fast-food marketing strategies, especially as consumers seek out customizable, social-media-friendly drinks.
