The phrase "A&W sweet cream" can be misleading, as it refers to different products with distinct ingredient lists depending on whether you are talking about the canned soda or a specialty item served at an A&W restaurant. This guide breaks down the specific components of each to provide clarity on what exactly goes into your favorite creamy, indulgent drink.
Canned A&W Cream Soda Ingredients
Contrary to what the name might suggest, standard canned A&W Cream Soda is typically dairy-free. The creamy taste is primarily derived from natural and artificial vanilla flavors, combined with other ingredients that create the desired texture and sweetness.
Key ingredients often include:
- Carbonated Water
- High Fructose Corn Syrup and/or Sugar
- Sodium Benzoate (Preservative)
- Caramel Color
- Citric Acid
- Yucca Extract (helps create foam)
- Natural and Artificial Flavors
The A&W Restaurant Root Beer Sweet Cream Shake
In contrast to the canned soda, the A&W Root Beer Sweet Cream Shake offered at some restaurant locations is made with actual dairy. For example, in Canada, this shake uses 100% Canadian dairy, making it unsuitable for those avoiding milk products.
A&W Cream Soda vs. A&W Sweet Cream Shake: A Comparison
| Feature | A&W Canned Cream Soda | A&W Root Beer Sweet Cream Shake (Restaurant) |
|---|---|---|
| Dairy Content | No (dairy-free) | Yes (contains milk and cream) |
| Primary Flavor Source | Natural and artificial vanilla flavors | Natural vanilla and actual dairy cream |
| Product Type | Carbonated soft drink | Blended, non-carbonated shake |
| Creamy Effect From | Yucca extract for foam and vanilla flavoring | Real dairy cream and ice blended together |
| Caffeine | Often caffeine-free (check label) | Caffeine content is dependent on ingredients |
| Availability | Available in grocery stores | Only available at participating A&W restaurants |
Understanding the 'Cream' in Dairy-Free Soda
The perception of creaminess in the dairy-free soda comes from the combination of its ingredients. Yucca extract aids in producing a stable foam that mimics a creamy texture, while a blend of natural and artificial vanilla flavors provides a rich, dessert-like taste without the use of milk products. This modern formulation differs from some historical cream soda recipes that did include dairy.
Conclusion
To summarize, the ingredients in A&W products referred to as 'sweet cream' vary significantly. The canned A&W Cream Soda is a dairy-free beverage utilizing sweeteners, vanilla flavorings, and yucca extract for its signature taste and texture. The A&W Root Beer Sweet Cream Shake, particularly in Canada, contains real dairy. Always check the product label for the most accurate ingredient information, especially concerning dietary needs.
Note: Ingredient lists can vary by region and formulation. Always check the label of the specific product you are purchasing for the most accurate information. For further nutritional details on their various products, you can visit the A&W corporate website. A&W Restaurants
