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Cherry Dr. Pepper Chocolate Cake with Cherry Frosting

Cherry Dr. Pepper Chocolate Cake with Cherry Frosting

Cherry Dr. Pepper Chocolate Cake with Cherry Frosting is a moist and flavorful dessert that uniquely combines the fizzy sweetness of Dr. Pepper soda with rich chocolate and bright cherry frosting. This indulgent cake offers a perfect balance of fruity and chocolate flavors with a tender crumb and a refreshing cherry finish—ideal for celebrations or as a special treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Cake Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup cocoa powder (preferably Dutch-processed)
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup Dr. Pepper soda
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Cherry Frosting Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup maraschino cherry juice or cherry syrup
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped maraschino cherries

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare Pans: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.
  2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt to ensure even distribution and remove lumps.
  3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and Dr. Pepper soda until well combined. The soda adds moisture and subtle cherry undertones.
  4. Blend Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. A few small lumps are okay to keep the cake tender; do not overmix.
  5. Bake the Cake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool the cakes completely on wire racks before frosting.
  6. Prepare the Cherry Frosting: Beat the softened butter until fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar, maraschino cherry juice or syrup, and finely chopped cherries. Mix until smooth and spreadable.
  7. Assemble and Frost: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of cherry frosting over it, then top with the second cake layer. Frost the top and sides evenly with the remaining frosting.

Notes

  • Use room temperature eggs, butter, and oil for smoother mixing and better texture.
  • Do not overmix the batter to keep the crumb tender.
  • Dutch-processed cocoa powder intensifies chocolate flavor.
  • If frosting is too soft, chill for 15 minutes before spreading.
  • Use a serrated knife or cake leveler to slice layers evenly for a polished presentation.

Nutrition

Keywords: cherry chocolate cake, Dr. Pepper cake, cherry frosting, chocolate cherry dessert, moist chocolate cake, soda cake