Cherry Dr. Pepper Cake

This Cherry Dr. Pepper Cake is a delightful and unique twist on a classic chocolate cake. The use of Dr. Pepper Cherry Soda adds a subtle fruity flavor that perfectly complements the richness of the chocolate. The addition of Maraschino cherries not only enhances the taste but also adds a burst of color throughout the cake.

The cherry-infused frosting brings a luscious sweetness to the dessert, and the optional chocolate shavings provide an extra layer of indulgence. The final touch of cherries on top adds a visually appealing and delicious element to each slice.

Cherry Dr. Pepper Cake Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 box chocolate cake mix (dry mix only)
• 1 1/2 cups Dr. Pepper Cherry Soda
• 1 jar Maraschino cherries (stemless), reserve 24 cherries
• 1 cup unsalted sweet cream butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar, plus 2 more cups if needed
• Chocolate shavings (optional)

How to Make:

For the Cake:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Prepare a 9×13 baking dish by spraying it with pam baking spray.
2. In a standing mixer, combine the chocolate cake mix and Dr. Pepper Cherry Soda until well combined.
3. Cut the Maraschino cherries in half and gently fold them into the cake batter.
4. Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for approximately 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting.

For the Cherry Frosting:

1. In a standing mixer, cream together the softened butter, powdered sugar, and cherry juice until the mixture is well combined and stiff.
2. If the frosting is too thin, add another cup of powdered sugar until the desired consistency is reached.
3. Scoop the frosting onto the cooled cake and, using an angled spatula, smooth it evenly.
4. Sprinkle chocolate shavings on top of the frosting and add a few reserved cherries for decoration.
5. Place the cake in the refrigerator for at least 60 minutes to allow the frosting to harden before cutting.

Tips:

1. Cherry Consistency: For a consistent distribution of cherries in the cake, ensure they are evenly chopped and gently folded into the batter.
2. Frosting Thickness: Adjust the powdered sugar in the frosting to achieve the desired thickness. Add more if the frosting is too thin.
3. Chilling Time: Allowing the cake to chill in the refrigerator after frosting ensures a firmer and more manageable slice when cutting.