Chocolate Cherry Dr Pepper Cake

---

Quick Benefits

The Chocolate Cherry Dr Pepper Cake is a fun and flavorful dessert that blends the rich decadence of chocolate, the bold fizz of Dr Pepper, and the sweet tang of maraschino cherries. With a boxed cake mix and a handful of ingredients, it’s an easy-to-make showstopper perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or whenever you want to surprise your guests with something unique and delicious. Best of all — no fancy baking skills required!

---

Essential Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 box chocolate cake mix
• 1 cup Dr Pepper
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup maraschino cherries, chopped

For the Frosting:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2–3 tablespoons Dr Pepper
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Garnish:

• Whole maraschino cherries
• Chocolate shavings

---

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the Cake Batter:

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
• In a large bowl, combine chocolate cake mix, Dr Pepper, oil, and eggs.
• Beat until smooth, then gently fold in chopped maraschino cherries.

2. Bake the Cake:

• Divide batter evenly into prepared pans.
• Bake for 28–32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
• Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

3. Make the Frosting:

• Beat softened butter until creamy.
• Gradually add powdered sugar, beating slowly until fully incorporated.
• Add 2–3 tablespoons of Dr Pepper and vanilla extract, and mix until smooth.

4. Assemble the Cake:

• Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate.
• Spread a layer of frosting, then place the second cake layer on top.
• Frost the top and sides generously.
• Garnish with maraschino cherries and chocolate shavings.

---

Health Benefits

While indulgent, this cake offers a few light-hearted benefits:

• Maraschino cherries provide antioxidants and add a cheerful, fruity note.
• Dr Pepper adds flavor and moisture without extra dairy or heavy ingredients.
• Making cake from a box mix saves time and effort — reducing kitchen stress is good for your health, too!

For a lighter version, you could use a sugar-free soda and reduce the frosting thickness.

---

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
• Pair with coffee, cherry cola, or milk for a nostalgic touch.
• Plate slices with extra cherries or chocolate drizzle for an elevated presentation.
• Perfect for:
  • Birthday parties
  • Easter brunch
  • Valentine’s Day
  • Casual weeknight dessert

---

Creative Variations

• Try with Diet Dr Pepper or Cherry Vanilla Dr Pepper for a fun twist.
• Substitute the chocolate cake mix for Devil’s food or cherry chip cake mix.
• Add mini chocolate chips or crushed walnuts to the batter for added texture.
• Turn it into cupcakes or a sheet cake for easy serving.

---

Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days.
• Freeze frosted cake slices for up to 2 months. Wrap in plastic wrap and foil.
• Thaw overnight in the fridge and let come to room temp before serving.

---

Pro Tips

• Make sure ingredients like eggs and butter are at room temperature for a smoother batter and frosting.
• Don’t overmix after adding cherries — keep them as whole as possible for juicy bites.
• For a cleaner finish, chill the cake briefly before frosting.
• Use a serrated knife or cake leveler to even out layers for a polished look.
• Add extra Dr Pepper in small splashes to loosen frosting if needed.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use another soda instead of Dr Pepper?
A: Yes! Try Cherry Coke, regular cola, or root beer for different flavors.

Q: Can I make this cake in one pan?
A: You can use a 9×13-inch pan instead of two round ones — just adjust baking time accordingly (approx. 35–40 minutes).

Q: Can I make this recipe into cupcakes?
A: Absolutely! Bake cupcakes for about 18–22 minutes at 350°F.

Q: Can I use fresh cherries?
A: Maraschino cherries are best for their sweetness and moisture, but pitted and chopped fresh cherries can be used — just make sure to drain any extra juice.

Q: How do I prevent the cake from sticking?
A: Grease and flour the pans well, or line the bottoms with parchment paper circles.

---

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per slice – 12 servings)

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 55mg
• Sodium: 270mg
• Carbohydrates: 68g
• Sugars: 48g
• Protein: 3g

---

Print