This Dr. Pepper Cake is just what the doctor ordered to fix up that sweet tooth of yours. A devil’s food chocolate cake paired with a can of Dr. Pepper, and a homemade glaze that is Dr. Pepper flavored with some crunchy nuts in each bite. This cake is phenomenal for birthday parties, holiday gatherings, or even whip up for a bake sale you are helping with.
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s sure to stand out at your next gathering or just want to treat yourself to something new and delicious, this Dr. Pepper Cake is a must-try. It’s not your average chocolate cake. The secret ingredient, Dr. Pepper, gives this cake an unexpected depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the rich, decadent frosting. This cake is soft, moist, and has a subtle sweetness that will have everyone guessing what makes it so special — and the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make!
You may know the classic Coca-Cola cake, and this is a twist on that recipe. I love the sweet Dr. Pepper flavor of this cake. Moist, rich, flavorful, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
The base of this cake is a boxed cake mix. That makes this a crazy simple prep dessert that you can essentially throw together quickly. The glaze you drizzle on top transforms the flavor, no one will ever know it is a boxed cake mix.
This Dr. Pepper Cake Recipe Is…
- Unique in flavor the soda offers a burst of sweetness to the cake that stands out from a traditional chocolate cake.
- Moist and flavorful chocolate cake that is full of flavor.
- Easy to make with minimal ingredients needed for the cake and the Dr. Pepper glaze.
- This is a vintage recipe that has been around for ages. You might have grown up eating this cake.
Ingredients Needed
Cake Mix: I used a chocolate cake mix for the base of this cake. Devil’s food is what I used but feel free to opt for any other chocolate cake.
Dr. Pepper: I do recommend using regular Dr. Pepper instead of diet as the sugar in the soda is important. You can use diet just know it will alter the texture.
Cocoa Powder: For the base of the glaze you will use unsweetened cocoa powder. If it is clumpy, then you can run through a sifter.
Butter: Reach for unsalted butter. If you do not use real butter the texture will vary just a bit.
Vanilla: Vanilla will add aroma to the glaze, and it truly brings out tons of flavor.
Powdered Sugar: To sweeten and thicken the glaze you will use sifted powdered sugar.
Walnuts: Consider adding walnuts or pecans to mix in nuts for a nice crunch.
Variations to Cake
- Add in some maraschino cherries that are diced up will give you a cherry Dr. Pepper flavor.
- You can add a shot of amaretto to the glaze once you remove it from the heat, so it is a boozy cake.
- You can spread it on a classic chocolate frosting if you would like instead of glaze.
- Make this dessert into cupcakes instead of cake for a twist on the cake.
- Make a poke cake instead of a traditional cake. Bake up the cake and allow it to cool. Then poke holes all over the cake and pour sweetened condensed milk over the cake. Then add whipped cream on top and dust with shaved chocolate.
Storing
Room Temperature: You can store this cake at room temperature for 2 days in a sealed container. The big thing is to know that the cake will dry out after a day or two.
Fridge: To extend the life of the cake you can store it in the fridge for 3-4 days. Place in an airtight container.
Freezer: Freeze any of the cake you do not plan to eat right away. Freeze for 2-3 months. Then thaw on the counter or store in the fridge until you are ready to eat the cake.
Expert Tips for Success
How to Know When Cake Is Done
Take a toothpick and stick it in the center of the cake. If it comes out clean of wet batter the cake is done. If you find there is wet batter still on the toothpick then you need to bake the cake for a bit longer.
The edges of the cake will also pull away from the pan as it is being baked.
Allow Cake To Cool
Allow your cake time to cool once it is done baking. This is important as it is going to allow the cake to cool and the icing won’t melt into the cake. If you pour the glaze on right away it will melt and soak into the cake.
Don’t Overmix The Cake
Make sure that when you are mixing up the cake mix you do not overmix the batter. If you do it can make your cake dense and heavy once it bakes up.
Frosting Consistency
If you find the frosting is too thick you can add a bit more milk to the mixture to thin it out. Or if it is already too thin simply add in a bit more powdered sugar to thicken it up a bit.
This recipe starts with a classic devil’s food cake mix, but instead of the usual water, we’re using Dr. Pepper, which infuses the cake with a unique and slightly fruity flavor. The carbonation in the Dr. Pepper helps make the cake incredibly light and airy, while the rich cocoa flavor from the cake mix ensures that every bite is chocolatey and delicious. After baking, the cake cools to reveal a perfect, soft texture that’s ready to be topped with a frosting that takes this cake to the next level.
Now, let’s talk about the frosting — because it’s everything. The frosting is made with Dr. Pepper, unsweetened cocoa powder, butter, and powdered sugar, creating a smooth, velvety texture that’s both rich and slightly tangy. The real magic happens when you simmer the Dr. Pepper in a saucepan until it reduces down, concentrating its flavor and giving the frosting a caramelized sweetness that pairs beautifully with the chocolate cake. Once the butter is melted and the powdered sugar is mixed in, you’re left with a luscious, thick frosting that creates a glossy shell over the cake as it cools. Add some chopped walnuts or pecans on top if you want a little crunch, but even without the nuts, the frosting is divine.
Once the frosting is poured over the cake, it firms up into a perfect shell, creating a delightful contrast with the moist cake beneath. The result is a rich, flavorful cake that’s a true showstopper. You can serve it on its own, or take it over the top by adding a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream — either way, it’s a dessert that’s guaranteed to impress.
FAQs
Can I use a different soda besides Dr. Pepper?
Yes, you can use any type of flavor of soda you would like. Cream soda, root beer, Coke, etc. Feel free to play around with different flavors to find what flavor you prefer.
Can I make a homemade cake instead of a boxed cake?
You are more than welcome to use a homemade chocolate cake instead of boxed. Just add the liquid of water with Dr. Pepper so the cake has the Dr. Pepper flavor.
How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?
Grease your pan with a nonstick cooking spray. This will create a nonstick surface for your pan. You can also line the bottom with parchment paper for an extra layer of nonstick protection.
This Dr. Pepper Cake is a fun and creative way to elevate a classic chocolate cake, and it’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or just a random day when you want to indulge in something sweet and exciting.
The combination of Dr. Pepper’s unique flavor and the rich, fudgy frosting makes this cake truly one-of-a-kind, and once you’ve had a slice, you’ll understand why it’s such a crowd favorite. The best part? It’s easy to make, and the ingredients are simple, so you can whip it up for a quick treat or prepare it ahead of time for a special gathering.
So, next time you’re in the mood for a chocolate cake with a twist, give this Dr. Pepper Cake a try. It’s sure to become a new favorite in your dessert rotation!
Craving More Chocolate Recipes
Dr. Pepper Cake
Ingredients
INGREDIENTS
- 1 16 oz devils food box cake mix plus ingredients listed on box to prepare cake mix minus water
- 1 cup Dr Pepper to replace water called for in cake mix
For the frosting:
- ½ cup Dr Pepper
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup 1 stick unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 cups sifted powdered sugar
- optional* ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Instructions
- Prepare cake mix according to the package instructions for a 9×13 pan, substituting equal parts Dr Pepper for the water. Bake according to directions.
- Allow the cake to cool once it has finished baking.
- Prepare the frosting by simmering the Dr Pepper in a saucepan over medium high heat for 15 minutes until reduced.
- Mix the cocoa powder in until dissolved.
- Add the butter and stir until fully melted. Remove from heat to cool down for 10 minutes.
- Stir the sifted powdered sugar into the butter mixture in increments until fully combined and smooth. Mix in chopped nuts, if using.
- Pour the warm frosting over the top of the cake. The frosting will firm up and create a shell coating on the cake.
- Slice in squares and serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, enjoy!
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