Cherry Dr. Pepper Cake
A delectable union of rich chocolate and the unmistakable cherry-flavored fizz of Dr. Pepper, this cake is an indulgent twist on a classic dessert. It blends a boxed cake mix with a soda favorite, maraschino cherries, and a luscious cherry-infused buttercream frosting for a show-stopping treat.
Ingredients
- 1 container chocolate shavings available at Hobby Lobby
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar plus up to 2 additional cups if needed
- 1 ½ cups Cherry Dr. Pepper soda
- 1 jar maraschino cherries stems removed (reserve 24 whole cherries)
- 1 box chocolate cake mix dry mix only
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare a 9x13-inch baking dish with baking spray.
- In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the dry chocolate cake mix with the Cherry Dr. Pepper soda and beat until a smooth batter forms.
- Halve the maraschino cherries (except the 24 reserved ones) and gently fold them into the batter.
- Transfer the batter to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool completely in the pan before proceeding to frost.
Cherry Frosting:
- In a clean mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with 3 cups of powdered sugar and a few spoonfuls of cherry juice from the maraschino jar until a stiff frosting is achieved.
- If the consistency is too loose, incorporate up to 2 additional cups of powdered sugar until it holds its shape.
- Spread the frosting over the cooled cake with an angled spatula, creating an even layer.
- Garnish the top with chocolate shavings and the reserved whole cherries for an elegant finish.
- Refrigerate the cake for at least one hour to set the frosting before slicing and serving.
Notes
Keep leftovers refrigerated for optimal freshness.