If you’re craving something wildly decadent, irresistibly soft, yet unexpectedly fun, Cherry Dr Pepper Cake is a showstopper you absolutely have to try. This easy, old-school sheet cake combines the rich flavor of chocolate with fizzy Dr Pepper and bursts of candied cherry, all brought together with a creamy cherry-flecked frosting. It’s a celebration in every bite and guaranteed to please everyone from the youngest soda lover to the pickiest chocolate fanatic at your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best parts about this Cherry Dr Pepper Cake is just how simple but purposeful each ingredient is. Each component brings something magical, from a tender crumb to a festive pop of color or a punch of cherry flavor. Here’s exactly what you’ll need and why it matters.
- Chocolate cake mix: The perfect shortcut to a moist, chocolaty base, letting you focus on the fun extras.
- Dr Pepper (regular, not diet): Adds subtle cherry and spice notes, while making the cake extra tender and fluffy.
- Vegetable oil: Keeps each slice soft and moist for days, plus it blends easily with soda and eggs.
- Large eggs: Give the cake structure and extra richness; room temperature eggs work best for even mixing.
- Vanilla extract: Deepens the cake’s flavor and highlights both chocolate and cherry beautifully.
- Almond extract (optional): Gives an extra boost to the maraschino cherry flavor and adds a bakery-style aroma.
- Chopped maraschino cherries: Sweet, chewy, and vibrant, these add bold cherry flavor in every bite.
- Maraschino cherry juice: Enhances color and brings more sweet cherry tang to both the cake and frosting.
- Unsalted butter (for frosting): Creamy butter makes the frosting light and fluffy, so it spreads like a dream.
- Powdered sugar: Dissolves instantly, creating a smooth, sweet, and cloud-like frosting.
- More maraschino cherry juice (for frosting): Tints the frosting a lovely pink and cranks up the cherry taste.
- Vanilla or almond extract (for frosting): A dash pulls all the flavors into harmony, whether you choose classic vanilla or punchy almond.
- Pinch of salt (for frosting): Cuts the sweetness and balances that candy-like cherry flavor perfectly.
- Extra maraschino cherries (for garnish): Signal what’s inside and make every slice look like a party.
How to Make Cherry Dr Pepper Cake
Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Pan
Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously greasing a 9×13-inch baking pan. This ensures the Cherry Dr Pepper Cake pops out easily and bakes up evenly. If you want to try a bundt version, make sure to flour the pan too, so every intricate swirl comes out picture perfect.
Step 2: Mix Up the Cake Batter
In a large bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, Dr Pepper, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, almond extract (if you’re using it), maraschino cherry juice, and those cheery chopped cherries. Mix everything together until the batter is nicely combined and smooth. You’ll instantly smell that wild mix of chocolate and cherry soda — it’s pure happiness!
Step 3: Bake Until Fluffy and Set
Pour your luscious batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Slide it into the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick poked in the middle comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. For bundt cakes, let it go a bit longer, about 40 to 45 minutes.
Step 4: Cool Completely
Patience is key! Let your Cherry Dr Pepper Cake cool fully in the pan. Not only does this help set the structure, but it also prevents the frosting from melting into a pink puddle. A little extra time here means a perfectly frosted, sliceable cake later.
Step 5: Whip Up the Cherry Buttercream
Time for that dreamy, pink cherry frosting. Beat your softened butter until light and fluffy, then gradually add powdered sugar. Drizzle in maraschino cherry juice, toss in the vanilla or almond extract, and finish with a pinch of salt. Whip it until smooth and creamy. Adjust the cherry juice for softer or stiffer frosting, depending on how you like it.
Step 6: Frost and Decorate
Spread the frosting generously over your cooled cake. Finish with extra maraschino cherries on top for a playful, bakery-worthy pop of color. Each slice will look utterly irresistible, especially when crowned with those shiny, candy-red cherries.
How to Serve Cherry Dr Pepper Cake
Garnishes
The easiest and most eye-catching way to garnish this cake is with extra maraschino cherries. Try nestling them in rows or scattering them artfully over the pink frosting. A few sprinkles or a dusting of shaved dark chocolate can add a touch of flair. Serving with a little swirl of whipped cream next to each slice also makes for a gorgeous plate.
Side Dishes
Embrace the playful vibe of Cherry Dr Pepper Cake by pairing it with classic sides like a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a handful of fresh berries. If you’re serving it for a party, a fizzy drink bar with Dr Pepper, cherry sodas, or homemade lemonade will keep the theme light and festive.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider baking the Cherry Dr Pepper Cake as cupcakes for easy serving at a picnic or bake sale. Want a more elegant approach? Bake it in a bundt pan and drizzle with cherry glaze. For birthdays, top each slice with fun candles or edible glitter. Little personal touches make this cake the star of any occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cherry Dr Pepper Cake keeps beautifully if you cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap or stash leftovers in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge, where it stays moist and delicious for up to four days. The flavors even deepen a bit as it sits, making it a treat to nibble over several days.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze the cake (frosted or unfrosted). Slice pieces and wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then pop them in a freezer bag. When you’re craving a sweet pick-me-up, just thaw a slice in the fridge or at room temperature. The cake stays surprisingly tender.
Reheating
If you like your cake just a tad warm, pop a refrigerated slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This gently softens the cake and brings out the flavors even more. Just be mindful if the cake is frosted—the icing will melt a bit, which can be deliciously gooey!
FAQs
Can I make Cherry Dr Pepper Cake without maraschino cherries?
You’ll get the best cherry flavor and pops of color with maraschino cherries, but in a pinch, you can use chopped frozen or canned cherries (drained very well), though the flavor will be more subtle and you’ll miss out on that signature candy-like note.
Can I use a different soda, like cherry cola or root beer?
Absolutely! Cherry cola will play up the cherry-chocolate vibe, while root beer gives a fun twist. Just avoid diet sodas, as they can affect the cake’s rise and texture.
Is there a way to make this cake extra chocolatey?
Of course! Add a handful of mini chocolate chips to the batter for even more chocolate goodness. You can also use a dark chocolate or devil’s food cake mix as your base for richer results.
Can I bake this recipe as cupcakes?
Yes, Cherry Dr Pepper Cake makes fantastic cupcakes. Line your tin, fill each cup about two-thirds full, and bake for 15-18 minutes. Top with frosting and a cherry for adorable single-serve treats.
Does the cake actually taste like Dr Pepper?
While you may not taste the soda itself, Dr Pepper brings a subtle, spicy-sweet depth that highlights the cherry and chocolate flavors. Even non-soda fans will love the moist, unique cake it helps create.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a joyful, crowd-pleasing treat, this Cherry Dr Pepper Cake is the recipe you’ll come back to over and over. It’s full of personality, fast to make, and absolutely unforgettable. So grab those cherries and that can of Dr Pepper—your new favorite dessert is just a bake away!
Print
Cherry Dr Pepper Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the unique and delightful flavors of a Cherry Dr Pepper Cake. This easy sheet cake recipe combines the rich taste of chocolate with the fizzy sweetness of Dr Pepper, enhanced by juicy maraschino cherries in every bite. Topped with a luscious cherry-infused frosting, this dessert is a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Cake:
- 1 box chocolate cake mix
- 1 cup Dr Pepper (regular, not diet)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 1 cup chopped maraschino cherries
- 1/4 cup maraschino cherry juice
Frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons maraschino cherry juice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla or almond extract
- pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Mix the cake: In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, Dr Pepper, oil, eggs, extracts, cherry juice, and chopped cherries. Mix well and pour into the pan.
- Bake: Bake for 30–35 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool the cake.
- Make the frosting: Beat butter until fluffy, then add sugar, cherry juice, extract, and salt. Spread over the cooled cake.
- Serve: Top with extra cherries and slice to serve.
Notes
- For a bundt cake variation, grease and flour the pan and bake for 40–45 minutes.
- You can add mini chocolate chips for extra richness.
- Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 42g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
