If you’re searching for a dessert that perfectly marries nostalgia, fruity sweetness, and indulgent chocolate, you need to dive into this Cherry Dr. Pepper Cake Recipe. This cake offers a delightful twist on classic chocolate cake by using Dr. Pepper Cherry soda to infuse a subtle cherry cola flavor, while maraschino cherries mixed right into the batter bring bursts of juicy sweetness in every bite. Topped with a luscious cherry-infused buttercream frosting and adorned with chocolate shavings, this cake is a crowd-pleaser that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. It’s one of those recipes that always surprises and delights guests, and it’s become a comforting favorite I love to share with friends during celebrations or cozy get-togethers.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, easy-to-find ingredients is the first step toward making this show-stopping Cherry Dr. Pepper Cake Recipe. Each item contributes beautifully to the cake’s moist texture, cherry-soda-infused flavor, and sweet, creamy frosting that elevates this dessert to something truly special.
- Chocolate cake mix (1 box): A dry, boxed mix ensures a reliable, moist base cake and saves you time without sacrificing flavor.
- Dr. Pepper Cherry soda (1 1/2 cups): The star ingredient that brings that unique cherry-cola essence, giving the cake its signature twist.
- Maraschino cherries (1 jar, no stems): Half go into the batter for juicy bursts, while whole cherries reserve the best for a stunning garnish.
- Unsalted sweet cream butter (1 cup, softened): Essential for a creamy, rich frosting that balances the sweet and tart elements perfectly.
- Powdered sugar (3 cups, plus extra as needed): Provides sweet structure to the frosting, allowing you to customize the thickness and sweetness.
- Maraschino cherry juice (3–4 tablespoons): Adds natural cherry flavor to the frosting, tying together flavors from batter to topping.
- Chocolate shavings (to taste): Adds a decadent texture contrast and a touch of elegance to the finished cake.
How to Make Cherry Dr. Pepper Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with baking spray. This ensures the cake will release easily after baking and gives your dessert that perfect base to work with.
Step 2: Mix Cake Batter with a Cherry Twist
In a large bowl or your stand mixer bowl, combine the dry chocolate cake mix with the fizzy Dr. Pepper Cherry soda. Whisk it until everything is blended smoothly, about 1 to 2 minutes. Next, halve the maraschino cherries, saving 24 whole cherries for decorating later, and gently fold the cherry halves into the batter. These cherries add delightful pops of juicy sweetness in the final cake.
Step 3: Bake the Cake to Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish, smoothing the top evenly. Bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This step ensures a moist, fluffy cake that’s bursting with cherry and chocolate flavor.
Step 4: Cool Completely Before Frosting
Removing the cake from the oven is just the beginning. Let it cool fully in the pan so that when you add the frosting, it won’t melt and slide off. Patience here guarantees a beautiful finish that everyone will admire.
Step 5: Whip Up the Cherry Buttercream Frosting
Using a stand mixer, beat the softened butter until creamy and smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, then mix in 3 to 4 tablespoons of the maraschino cherry juice. This infusion adds a natural cherry flair to the frosting. If the mix feels too thin, add extra powdered sugar little by little until the frosting holds stiff peaks but is still spreadable.
Step 6: Frost Your Cherry Dr. Pepper Cake
Use an angled spatula to spread the cherry buttercream evenly over the completely cooled cake. This technique gives you a smooth, polished look and lets the frosting hug the cake perfectly.
Step 7: Add Decorative Chocolate and Cherries
Sprinkle chocolate shavings generously over the top for a touch of drama and texture. Then artfully arrange your reserved whole maraschino cherries on the frosting. This adds a vibrant pop of color and elegance to your cake.
Step 8: Chill Before Serving
Place the cake in the refrigerator for at least one hour. This chilling time sets the frosting beautifully and makes slicing easier. Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best experience.
How to Serve Cherry Dr. Pepper Cake Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Cherry Dr. Pepper Cake Recipe truly shine, consider adding fresh cherries or even a light dusting of powdered sugar on top. The reserved maraschino cherries are perfect for bright pops of color, while some extra chocolate shavings lend an extra touch of decadence.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with light, fresh accompaniments to balance its richness. Vanilla bean ice cream or a simple whipped cream complements the chocolate and cherry flavors beautifully. For a fruity twist, serve alongside a fresh berry salad or sliced strawberries for added freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests, serve individual slices with a dollop of cherry buttercream piped on top and a chocolate curl for flair. Alternatively, let guests customize their slices with extra maraschino cherries and a drizzle of chocolate sauce for a fun, interactive dessert experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Cherry Dr. Pepper Cake Recipe keeps well when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Leftover slices will stay moist and flavorful for up to 4 days, making it easy to enjoy multiple servings without losing any charm.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap the cooled and frosted cake tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge so the frosting stays intact and delicious.
Reheating
This cake is best enjoyed chilled, but if you prefer a warm slice, gently heat individual portions in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds. Be careful not to melt the frosting too much—warming just enough to soften the cake enhances its comforting texture.
FAQs
Can I use regular cola instead of Dr. Pepper Cherry?
While regular cola can be used, the unique cherry flavor of Dr. Pepper Cherry really sets this cake apart. Substituting another soda may change the flavor profile, but the cake will still be delicious.
Do I have to use a boxed cake mix?
You can absolutely make this cake from scratch, but the boxed mix makes the process easier and ensures consistent texture. Just be sure to adjust the liquid accordingly if making from scratch.
Can I omit the cherries in the batter?
The cherries add bursts of juicy texture and enhance the cherry flavor, but if you’re not a fan, you can leave them out. Just keep the cherry soda and frosting to keep that signature taste.
How can I make this cake dairy-free?
You can substitute dairy-free butter and ensure your cake mix is free of dairy ingredients. Check your frosting ingredients carefully and swap powdered sugar or cream with alternatives if needed.
Is this cake good for a birthday party?
Absolutely! This Cherry Dr. Pepper Cake Recipe is festive, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing, making it a fantastic choice for birthdays and all kinds of celebrations.
Final Thoughts
This Cherry Dr. Pepper Cake Recipe is one of those magical desserts that surprises and delights with every bite. With its perfect balance of chocolate and cherry flavors plus the nostalgic fizz of Dr. Pepper Cherry soda, it’s a cake that brings smiles around any table. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be excited to bake it again and again. So, go ahead—mix up that batter and treat yourself to a slice of cherry-soda-infused heaven today!
Print
Cherry Dr. Pepper Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cherry Dr. Pepper Cake combines rich chocolate cake infused with the unique flavor of Dr. Pepper Cherry soda and juicy maraschino cherries. Topped with a creamy cherry-flavored buttercream frosting and garnished with chocolate shavings and whole maraschino cherries, it’s a deliciously moist and festive dessert perfect for any occasion.
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)
Garnish
- Chocolate shavings (as desired; found at hobby or baking supply stores)
- Reserved maraschino cherries (about 24 for decorating)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with baking spray and set aside to prepare for the cake batter.
- Prepare Batter: In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, combine the dry chocolate cake mix with the Dr. Pepper Cherry soda. Mix thoroughly until fully incorporated, about 1–2 minutes. Halve the maraschino cherries (saving 24 whole cherries for garnish) and gently fold the cherry halves into the batter.
- Bake Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly to smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is fully baked.
- Cool Cake: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan. This step ensures the frosting won’t melt when applied.
- Make 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 (or as needed) and continue to beat until the frosting becomes smooth, stiff, and spreadable. If it’s too thin, incorporate additional powdered sugar a little at a time to reach the desired consistency.
- Frost Cake: Spread the cherry frosting evenly over the completely cooled cake using an angled spatula to achieve a smooth finish.
- Garnish: Sprinkle chocolate shavings over the frosted cake, then artfully arrange the reserved whole maraschino cherries on top for a beautiful and flavorful presentation.
- Chill Cake: Place the finished cake in the refrigerator for at least one hour to allow the frosting to set firmly before slicing and serving. Enjoy this moist, cherry-infused chocolate delight!
Notes
- Ensure the cake is completely cooled before frosting to prevent melting.
- Adjust frosting thickness by adding powdered sugar or cherry juice to get the perfect consistency.
- Chocolate shavings can be purchased or made by shaving a chocolate bar with a vegetable peeler.
- For a more intense cherry flavor, add a teaspoon of cherry extract to the frosting.
- Store leftover cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
