A new viral drink trend is sweeping TikTok, combining protein shakes with Diet Coke, and users are surprised by how much they enjoy it. Utah-based fourth-grade teacher Rebecca Gordon, who popularized the “protein Diet Coke” mix, shared her recipe on TikTok, which has since gained over 2.5 million views. Gordon simply mixes a vanilla protein drink with her go-to 40-ounce Diet Coke, and the result exceeded her expectations. She described the combination as smooth and likened the flavor to a soda-ice cream float, adding that it reminded her of Utah’s famous “dirty soda” beverages, which mix soft drinks with flavored syrups and creamers.
Gordon’s video has inspired others to try the trend, including content creator Marla Catherine Smiley, who put her own twist on the drink by using Diet Dr. Pepper, coconut syrup, and vanilla protein. Smiley, a non-soda drinker, found the protein addition appealing as it helped “hit protein goals.” She described the drink as cutting the carbonation but overall fun and tasty, especially for those into fitness.
The trend has become popular not only with “dirty soda” fans but also with those conscious about protein intake. Gordon and Smiley both believe the drink appeals to a wide audience, from gym enthusiasts to casual soda drinkers, and is here to stay.
With more people trying the drink, Gordon noted that protein drinks are becoming harder to find at local gas stations as the trend continues to grow. She looks forward to experimenting with more flavors and soft drink combinations, with Baja Blast on her list of next mixes to try.
