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Dr Pepper Cake Recipe


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4.1 from 42 reviews

  • Author: Ava
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. Add vanilla extract: Remove the frosting from heat and stir in the vanilla extract thoroughly.
  7. 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.
  8. 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