The speculation is rife: two tantalizing milkshakes flavored with Dr Pepper are rumored to launch this fall, and the web is aflutter with curiosity. An erstwhile classified promotional image was unveiled earlier this week by snack enthusiast @snackolator, showcasing two varieties - a classic Dr Pepper flavor and a Creamy Coconut one - set to make a splash within the next month.

The strange thing is, they haven't been claimed by any fast-food chain so far. "@snackolator wrote, "'Set to roll out in August, but no confirmed chains/locations as of today per my exchange with them at the National Restaurant Show." This annual affair often witnesses previews of the food service industry's imminent innovations.

Predictably, this led to an outbreak of conjectures on the internet. A horde of social media users are assuming that Wendy's is potentially behind this, pointing at past Frosty campaigns' similar style and color scheme. However, some are betting on Whataburger, Arby’s, Jack in the Box, or even McDonald’s.

Users like @kozmobandz were all for Wendy's: "This whole ad feels like Wendy’s," while @chrissythesagittarius hoped for McDonald's, fantasizing about the heavenly blend with their vanilla soft serve. At this stage, however, all guesses are merely casting stones in the dark.

Though we are yet to discover the partnering restaurant chain, the flavors sure seem meticulously selected. With Dr Pepper's recent announcement of the renaissance of its fan-favorite Creamy Coconut drink – a variant that made its debut last year and soon acquired a massive fanbase, this shake strategy might provide loyal customers a refreshing way to savor the soda flavor in a different form. It also helps Dr Pepper increase its visibility during the peak season.

Product popularity among younger consumers is on the rise for Dr Pepper. Per Piper Sandler's Spring 2025 Taking Stock With Teens survey, Dr Pepper has topped Gen Z's favorite soft drink, defeating Coca-Cola and Pepsi. But it's not just limited to the Gen Z demographic. Last year, Dr. Pepper won the title of the second most popular soda in America, outpacing Pepsi in national rankings. Also, TikTok has seen a surge in DIY drinks and new flavor combinations starring Dr Pepper as the base.

In the world of fast food, limited-edition desserts have started enjoying the spotlight recently. McDonald's Grimace Shake, seasonal Sonic Slushes, and Jack in the Box's Oreo-style creations are all examples indicating how frozen drinks can grab public attention.

Meanwhile, the idea of Dr Pepper shakes isn't entirely novel. In the past, Whataburger released a seasonal Dr Pepper shake to much fanfare. With the introduction of a Creamy Coconut version, it would add an interesting twist – if the initial taste testers are to be believed, it may not undoubtedly be kept under wraps for long.

With no official confirmation from either Dr Pepper or its parent company, Keurig Dr Pepper, the scheduled release remains a mystery. The only certainty is that the milkshakes are slated to launch in August, as per @snackolator’s discussion at the National Restaurant Show.

Whether it's Wendy's, Whataburger, or an altogether different player, the buzz is clear: this summer's most gossiped-about frozen drink may very well be tested as we speak. The comeback of a much-beloved soda coupled with an elusive milkshake? Definitely quite a limited-edition treat to anticipate.