Description
This indulgent Dr Pepper Cake combines a moist chocolate fudge cake enhanced with chocolate pudding and the unique sweetness of Dr Pepper soda. Topped with a rich, creamy chocolate frosting made with cocoa powder, butter, and powdered sugar, and optionally garnished with chopped nuts, this cake offers a delightful blend of flavors perfect for any celebration or dessert craving.
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 box chocolate fudge cake mix
- 3.9 ounce small box instant chocolate pudding
- 3 large eggs
- ⅓ cup oil
- 1 cup Dr Pepper soda
Frosting
- 1 stick (1/2 cup) salted butter
- 3 Tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 4-6 Tablespoons heavy cream (or milk)
- 2 cups powdered sugar (also called confectioners sugar)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Topping
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray to ensure the cake doesn’t stick.
- Mix the cake batter: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to combine the chocolate fudge cake mix, instant chocolate pudding, eggs, oil, and Dr Pepper soda. Mix on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and well blended.
- Bake the cake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake according to the cake mix package directions, usually around 30-35 minutes. Expect a slight dip in the center, which is normal. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Make the frosting: While the cake bakes, melt the stick of salted butter in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir in the unsweetened cocoa powder and start with 4 tablespoons of heavy cream, stirring continuously to combine.
- Add powdered sugar: Gradually whisk in the powdered sugar, stirring briskly to dissolve lumps and create a smooth frosting. Adjust the thickness with more cream if needed.
- Add vanilla extract: Remove the frosting from heat and stir in the vanilla extract thoroughly.
- Frost the cake: Once the cake has cooled slightly but is still warm, pour the frosting evenly over the top and spread it out with a spatula.
- Add nuts (optional): Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts evenly over the frosting if desired. Allow the frosting to set as it cools completely before serving.
Notes
- The dip in the center of the cake is typical for this recipe and doesn’t affect the taste or texture.
- You can use milk in place of heavy cream for a lighter frosting consistency.
- Adding nuts is optional but adds a nice crunchy texture contrast.
- Ensure the cake is slightly warm when frosting to help the frosting spread easily but not so hot that it melts the frosting.
- Store any leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American