Description
This Cherry Dr. Pepper Cake is a moist and flavorful chocolate cake that uses Dr. Pepper Cherry soda and maraschino cherries for a unique twist. Topped with a creamy cherry frosting and chocolate shavings, it makes a delightful dessert perfect for celebrations or any sweet craving.
Ingredients
Scale
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.
- 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 until fully incorporated, approximately 1–2 minutes. Halve the maraschino cherries, reserving 24 whole cherries for garnish, then fold the halved cherries into the batter gently.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top evenly. 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 the frosting will not melt when applied.
- Prepare the Cherry Frosting: Using a stand mixer, beat the softened butter until creamy and smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and 3–4 tablespoons of maraschino cherry juice. Continue mixing until the frosting is smooth and stiff. If the frosting is too thin, add additional powdered sugar in small increments until the desired consistency is reached.
- Frost the Cake: Spread the cherry frosting evenly over the cooled cake using an angled spatula to achieve a smooth and even finish.
- Decorate: Sprinkle chocolate shavings evenly over the frosting. Arrange the reserved whole maraschino cherries on top as desired for a decorative touch.
- Chill and Serve: Place the decorated cake in the refrigerator for at least one hour to allow the frosting to set properly before slicing. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
- Ensure the cake is completely cool before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- Adjust the frosting consistency by adding more powdered sugar or cherry juice as needed.
- Chocolate shavings can be purchased or made by shaving a chocolate bar with a vegetable peeler.
- For a more intense cherry flavor, you can add a teaspoon of cherry extract to the frosting.
- This cake stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
