Cherry Dr. Pepper Cake Recipe
There is something simply magical about the Cherry Dr. Pepper Cake Recipe that makes it a standout dessert for every occasion. This delightful cake combines the rich, moist texture of chocolate with the unexpected yet perfectly balanced cherry-infused fizz of Dr. Pepper soda, creating a flavor profile that’s both nostalgic and uniquely refreshing. Topped with a luscious cherry frosting and decorated with bright maraschino cherries and chocolate shavings, this cake is as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the palate. Whether you’re baking it for a family gathering, a birthday, or just a special treat, the Cherry Dr. Pepper Cake Recipe promises to bring smiles and cravings for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in the Cherry Dr. Pepper Cake Recipe plays a vital role, from the rich chocolate base to the sweet, tangy cherries that brighten each bite. Together, they create a harmony of flavors and textures that’s hard to resist. Let’s dive into the essentials you’ll want to have at hand before you start baking.
- Chocolate cake mix: Using a dry mix ensures a consistent texture and chocolaty foundation for the cake.
- Dr. Pepper Cherry soda: The star ingredient that adds a fun fizz and cherry undertone, keeping the cake moist and flavorful.
- Maraschino cherries: These bring bright bursts of sweetness and festive color both inside the batter and as garnishes.
- Unsalted sweet cream butter: Softened butter is key for a creamy, smooth frosting without overpowering the other flavors.
- Powdered sugar: Provides the perfect base sweetness and structure for the frosting’s velvety texture.
- Maraschino cherry juice: A secret touch in the frosting that enhances cherry flavor and helps achieve the right consistency.
- Chocolate shavings: Adds a lovely decorative touch and an extra layer of chocolate goodness on top.
How to Make Cherry Dr. Pepper Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Make sure to spray your 9×13-inch baking dish generously with baking spray to prevent sticking and to help the cake bake evenly. This simple preparation step sets the stage for a perfectly baked cake with an easy release.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl or a stand mixer, combine the dry chocolate cake mix with the Dr. Pepper Cherry soda. The soda adds moisture and that unmistakable cherry flavor that defines this cake. Mix everything until smooth and fully incorporated, about 1 to 2 minutes. Then, halve most of the maraschino cherries and gently fold them into the batter—this scattered fruit adds delicate sweetness and a lovely texture contrast after baking.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Pour your luscious cherry-chocolate batter into the prepared pan, smoothing out the top for an even bake. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This step is thrilling, as you start sensing the rich aromas that will fill your kitchen.
Step 4: Cool the Cake
Once baked, it’s crucial to let the cake cool completely in the pan. This careful cooling process prevents your dreamy frosting from melting and sliding off later—patience here pays off with a gorgeous finish.
Step 5: Prepare the Cherry Frosting
While the cake cools, whip up the frosting by beating softened butter until creamy and light. Gradually add powdered sugar and a few tablespoons of cherry juice from the jar of maraschino cherries. This cherry juice is a small but brilliant touch to infuse the frosting with cherry flavor and control its consistency. Keep mixing until smooth, stiff, and spreading-ready. If the frosting feels too thin, add more powdered sugar slowly to get that perfect hold.
Step 6: Frost the Cake
Spread the cherry frosting evenly over the cooled cake using an angled spatula. This technique helps you achieve a smooth, polished surface that’s both inviting and beautiful. The rich frosting perfectly complements the fluffy cake below with creamy cherry decadence.
Step 7: Decorate
Sprinkle chocolate shavings across the frosting for a touch of elegance and crunch. Then, arrange the reserved whole maraschino cherries on top as you like. It’s like placing jewel-like details on a masterpiece—your Cherry Dr. Pepper Cake Recipe is now a stunning centerpiece.
Step 8: Chill and Serve
Pop the finished cake into the refrigerator for at least one hour to let the frosting set firmly. Chilling enhances flavors and makes slicing neat and tidy. Once set, slice, serve, and enjoy the magical combination you just created!
How to Serve Cherry Dr. Pepper Cake Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra pop, garnish with fresh or maraschino cherries and a few extra chocolate shavings before serving. Whipped cream on the side or a drizzle of cherry syrup can elevate the presentation and add luscious texture layers.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla or cherry ice cream. Light fruit salads or a berry compote provide a fresh contrast, enhancing the cake’s rich and sweet profile without overpowering it.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your Cherry Dr. Pepper Cake Recipe in perfect layers by slicing it into squares and stacking them with a thin layer of frosting or fresh cherries in between. You can also make mini versions in cupcake liners for parties, making this treat even more shareable and fun!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cake tightly covered in the refrigerator to keep the frosting fresh and prevent the cake from drying out. Properly stored, it will stay delicious for about 3 to 4 days.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap the cooled, unfrosted cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw completely before frosting and decorating, so you get the perfect texture.
Reheating
Since this is a frosted cake, it’s best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. However, if you prefer a slightly warmer slice, take a piece out of the fridge about 30 minutes before serving to let it soften gently without losing its structure.
FAQs
Can I use a different soda instead of Dr. Pepper Cherry?
While Dr. Pepper Cherry is unique for its cherry and spice blend, you can experiment with other cherry-flavored sodas. Keep in mind the flavor profile will change, so pick one that balances sweetness and cherry notes well.
Do I need to use a boxed cake mix or can I make it from scratch?
While homemade cake batter works, using a boxed chocolate cake mix ensures consistent texture and saves time. It pairs perfectly with the soda to create that signature moistness.
Can I make this cake vegan or gluten-free?
This recipe can be adapted by using vegan butter, gluten-free chocolate cake mix, and ensuring your soda and cherries are free from animal products or allergens. Adjust frosting ingredients accordingly for the best results.
Why do we add soda to the cake batter?
The soda adds carbonation that lightens the batter and enhances moisture, resulting in a fluffy, tender cake. Additionally, the cherry flavor in the soda adds depth that complements the chocolate perfectly.
How can I tell when the cake is fully baked?
Use a toothpick or cake tester inserted into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the cake is done. Avoid overbaking to keep it moist and tender.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try the Cherry Dr. Pepper Cake Recipe, it will quickly become one of your favorite go-to desserts whenever you want something both nostalgic and surprising. The way chocolate, cherry, and soda come together is pure magic, and the recipe’s ease makes it a joy to bake. So go ahead, whip up this delightful cake, share it with your loved ones, and watch their faces light up with every bite.
Print
Cherry Dr. Pepper Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This Cherry Dr. Pepper Cake is a delightful and moist chocolate cake infused with cherry-flavored Dr. Pepper soda and studded with maraschino cherries. Topped with a luscious cherry-infused buttercream frosting, chocolate shavings, and whole cherries, this cake offers a perfect balance of sweet and fruity flavors, making it ideal for celebrations or a special dessert treat.
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (dry mix for best results)
- 1 1/2 cups Dr. Pepper Cherry soda
- 1 jar maraschino cherries (no stems; reserve 24 cherries for topping, halve the rest for the batter)
Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted sweet cream butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar, plus up to 2 additional cups if needed
- 3–4 tablespoons maraschino cherry juice (from the jar, as needed for consistency)
Decoration
- Chocolate shavings (as desired; found at hobby or baking supply stores)
- Reserved maraschino cherries (about 24 for decorating)
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with baking spray and set aside to prevent the cake from sticking.
- Make the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, combine the dry chocolate cake mix with the Dr. Pepper Cherry soda. Mix thoroughly for about 1–2 minutes until fully incorporated. Halve the maraschino cherries, reserving 24 whole cherries for garnish, and gently fold the cherry halves into the batter.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is fully cooked.
- Cool the Cake: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan. Cooling fully ensures that the frosting will not melt when applied.
- Prepare the Cherry Frosting: Using a stand mixer, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add 3 cups of powdered sugar along with 3–4 tablespoons of maraschino cherry juice. Continue mixing until the frosting is smooth and stiff. If the frosting is too thin, add more powdered sugar in small increments until the desired consistency is reached.
- Frost the Cake: Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the cherry frosting evenly over the surface using an angled spatula to create a smooth finish.
- Decorate: Sprinkle chocolate shavings generously over the frosting. Arrange the reserved whole maraschino cherries on top to add a festive and colorful touch.
- Chill and Serve: Place the decorated cake in the refrigerator for at least one hour to allow the frosting to set firmly. Slice and serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use dry chocolate cake mix for best texture and structure.
- Ensure the cake is fully cooled before frosting to prevent melting or running frosting.
- Adjust the cherry juice quantity in the frosting to achieve your preferred consistency.
- Chocolate shavings can be substituted with chocolate curls or chips if unavailable.
- Refrigerate leftover cake to keep frosting firm and cake moist.
- For a deeper cherry flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of cherry extract to the frosting.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
