If you’re anything like me and adore the marriage of rich chocolate and vibrant cherries, then the Chocolate Cherry Dr Pepper Cake Recipe is going to become your new favorite indulgence. This delightful cake brings together the lush flavors of chocolate fudge and cherry pie filling, all enhanced by the surprising fizz and subtle sweetness of Dr Pepper soda. The result is a moist, tender cake with luscious frosting that feels both nostalgic and exciting at the same time. It’s truly a magical dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, perfect for sharing with friends or treating yourself to a slice of happiness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What I love about the ingredients in this recipe is how simple yet essential each one is, working in harmony to create a perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. Every element has a specific purpose that elevates the overall cake experience.
- Chocolate fudge cake mix: The base that guarantees moistness and rich chocolate flavor effortlessly.
- Cherry pie filling (21 oz can): Bursts of juicy cherries to complement the chocolate and naturally sweeten the batter.
- Large eggs (3): Bind the ingredients and add structure to the cake for the perfect crumb.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds a warm depth and helps balance the chocolate and cherry flavors.
- Dr Pepper (3/4 cup): The secret ingredient that adds a subtle fruity fizz and keeps the cake incredibly moist.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup): Used in the frosting for richness and smooth texture.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (1/4 cup): Gives the frosting a deep chocolate punch.
- Milk (1/3 cup): Helps achieve that perfect pourable yet thick frosting consistency.
- Powdered sugar (2 cups): Sweetens and thickens the frosting to a luscious finish.
How to Make Chocolate Cherry Dr Pepper Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking and to ensure your cake comes out clean and intact once baked. Proper preparation here makes the whole process easier and the cake look flawless.
Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter
In a large bowl, combine the chocolate fudge cake mix, cherry pie filling, eggs, vanilla extract, and Dr Pepper. Mix gently but well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated—be careful not to overmix to keep the cake tender and light. This batter will be a wonderful combination of chocolatey richness and cherry sweetness, elevated by the soda’s fizz.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Pour your batter evenly into the greased pan and smooth it out with a spatula. Place it in your preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. The perfect moment to pull it out is when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. This ensures your cake is moist but completely set.
Step 4: Prepare the Frosting
While the cake is baking, start your frosting. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, stirring often. Once melted, whisk in the unsweetened cocoa powder and milk until everything is smooth and glossy. Remove from the heat and gradually add powdered sugar, stirring continuously until the frosting thickens enough to pour but is still spreadable. This rich, chocolate frosting pairs perfectly with the warm fruity cake base.
Step 5: Frost the Cake and Cool
The moment your cake comes out warm from the oven is the best time to pour that luscious frosting all over it. Spread the frosting evenly so every bite is a perfect match of cake and chocolate glaze. Let the cake cool slightly before serving to allow the frosting to set just enough to be irresistible but still delightfully gooey.
How to Serve Chocolate Cherry Dr Pepper Cake Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this already stunning cake, consider sprinkling a handful of mini chocolate chips over the top right after frosting. Alternatively, fresh cherries or a dusting of powdered sugar work beautifully for a simple yet elegant touch. Whipped cream or a bright red cherry on top adds a classic flair that guests will adore.
Side Dishes
This cake shines on its own, but pairing it with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of slightly sour cream can beautifully offset the sweetness and add interesting texture contrasts. For a cozy meal, a cup of robust coffee or a bold black tea balances the dessert’s richness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress at your next dinner or party? Slice the cake into neat squares and dust them with cocoa powder for a refined look. For a playful twist, turn the cake into mini cupcakes by adapting the batter and frosting steps, perfect for hand-held enjoyment or potlucks. Layering the cooled cake with whipped cream and more cherry pie filling can transform it into a deconstructed trifle experience that’s both beautiful and scrumptious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover any leftover cake tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it moist and fresh. It will last comfortably for about 3 to 4 days at room temperature or in the refrigerator. Just be sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best experience.
Freezing
If you want to prepare this Chocolate Cherry Dr Pepper Cake Recipe ahead of time, it freezes beautifully. Wrap the cake (preferably without frosting) tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can stay frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before frosting and serving.
Reheating
To enjoy your cake warm after refrigeration or freezing, gently reheat a slice in the microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds. This will revive that gooey frosting and soft texture, making each bite taste freshly baked. Just don’t overheat or it might dry out.
FAQs
Can I use a different soda instead of Dr Pepper?
Absolutely! While Dr Pepper adds a unique fruity complexity, you can experiment with other sodas like cola or cherry soda for subtle differences in flavor. Avoid diet sodas as they can affect the cake’s texture and sweetness.
Is it necessary to use cherry pie filling?
Using cherry pie filling gives the cake its characteristic burst of cherry flavor and texture, but you can substitute with fresh cherries if you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the sweetness and moisture content accordingly.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, by switching out the regular cake mix for a gluten-free chocolate cake mix, this recipe becomes accessible for gluten sensitivities without losing its delightful flavor and texture.
How do I avoid the frosting from being too runny?
The key is gradually adding powdered sugar and whisking until the frosting achieves a thick but pourable consistency. If it’s too runny, add a bit more powdered sugar or chill it briefly before pouring over the cake.
What’s the best way to serve leftovers?
Leftover cake tastes fantastic at room temperature or warmed slightly. Pair with a cold glass of milk or a hot cup of coffee to balance the rich chocolate and cherry flavors beautifully.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely hope you give the Chocolate Cherry Dr Pepper Cake Recipe a whirl because it effortlessly combines fun, flavor, and comfort in one unforgettable dessert. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or sneaking a slice for yourself, this cake promises to bring smiles and maybe even a few happy dance moves in the kitchen. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug, so dive in and enjoy every luscious bite!
Print
Chocolate Cherry Dr Pepper Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This decadent Chocolate Cherry Dr Pepper Cake combines rich chocolate fudge cake with sweet cherry pie filling and the unique fizz of Dr Pepper soda. Topped with a smooth, chocolatey frosting, this dessert is moist, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Easy to prepare and baked to perfection, it’s a crowd-pleaser that can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Ingredients
Cake:
- 1 box chocolate fudge cake mix
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup Dr Pepper (not diet)
Frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/3 cup milk
- 2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Make the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate fudge cake mix, cherry pie filling, eggs, vanilla extract, and Dr Pepper. Stir gently until all ingredients are well incorporated, taking care not to overmix to keep the cake tender.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean when the cake is done.
- Prepare the Frosting: While the cake bakes, melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the cocoa powder and milk until smooth and well combined. Remove the pan from heat and gradually stir in the powdered sugar until the frosting reaches a thick but pourable consistency.
- Frost the Cake: As soon as the cake comes out of the oven and is still warm, pour the warm frosting evenly over the top and spread it with a spatula to cover the surface.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving to let the frosting set. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best flavor.
Notes
- For extra richness and chocolate texture, add 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips to the cake batter before baking.
- This cake tastes best when served warm but is also delicious at room temperature.
- Enhance the dessert by topping slices with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
