🍒 Cherry Dr Pepper Cake 🍒
Moist, rich chocolate cake infused with the fizzy sweetness of Cherry Dr. Pepper, topped with a dreamy pink buttercream frosting—this retro-inspired cake is a crowd favorite that will take your taste buds on a nostalgic ride!
📝 Ingredients:
Cake Batter:
1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate fudge cake mix (dry) 🍫
12 oz Cherry Dr. Pepper (room temperature) 🍒🍺
3 large eggs 🥚
1/2 cup vegetable oil 🛢️
1 tsp vanilla extract 🍦
Buttercream Frosting:
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened 🧈
3–4 cups powdered sugar 🍚
2 tbsp milk 🥛
1 tsp vanilla extract 🍦
1/4 cup maraschino cherry juice 🍒
Maraschino cherries (for garnish) 🍒
Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven & Prepare Pans:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
2. Make the Cake Batter:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and Cherry Dr. Pepper. Use a hand mixer or whisk to blend until smooth. The Cherry Dr. Pepper adds moisture and a delightful fizz to the batter.
Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
3. Bake the Cake:
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans.
Place the pans in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
4. Prepare the Buttercream Frosting:
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with a hand mixer or stand mixer until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, alternating with the milk until the frosting reaches your desired consistency (use more sugar for a firmer frosting or more milk for a creamier texture).
Stir in the vanilla extract and maraschino cherry juice. Beat until smooth and the frosting turns a lovely pink color. If needed, adjust the consistency by adding more powdered sugar or milk.
5. Assemble the Cake:
Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one cake layer on your serving plate or cake stand.
Spread a generous amount of buttercream frosting on top of the first layer.
Carefully place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining buttercream, smoothing it evenly.
For a decorative touch, you can pipe a border of frosting around the edges and top the cake with maraschino cherries for a beautiful and retro look.
6. Chill and Serve:
For the best results, refrigerate the cake for about 30 minutes to allow the frosting to set and firm up a bit.
Slice and serve this delightful Cherry Dr. Pepper Cake at your next gathering or special occasion!
✨ Pro Tips:
Moisture Boost: The Cherry Dr. Pepper not only adds flavor but also keeps the cake moist. Be sure to use room temperature soda to avoid temperature shock and help it mix more easily.
Fluffy Frosting: If you prefer a firmer frosting, add a little extra powdered sugar. For a smoother frosting, you can increase the amount of milk.
Customizations: Want to add an extra cherry flavor? Add finely chopped maraschino cherries into the cake batter for little bursts of cherry sweetness in every bite!
🍽️ Serving Suggestions:
Side Treat: Serve the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an indulgent dessert.
Garnish: Top with extra maraschino cherries or even some chocolate shavings for a fun, retro vibe.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour (including cooling)
Servings: 12 slices
Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per slice (depending on frosting amount)
Why You’ll Love This Cake:
The Cherry Dr. Pepper Cake is a nostalgic dessert with a fizzy twist! Combining chocolate cake with the sweet, fruity flavor of Cherry Dr. Pepper and topped with a fluffy maraschino cherry buttercream, it’s a cake that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and will definitely impress at any gathering!
Enjoy this delightful, retro-inspired cake that combines the best of both worlds: chocolate and cherry. A true crowd-pleaser! 🎂🍒