A fuel composition comprises at least a tetramethylcyclohexane having a quaternary carbon atom in the cyclohexane ring and optionally, a fuel component. The tetramethylcyclohexane can be used as a fuel component or as a fuel additive in the fuel composition. The fuel composition may further comprise a conventional fuel component selected from a diesel fuel, jet fuel, kerosene or gasoline. Methods of making and using the fuel composition are also disclosed.