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A close-up shot of a perfect slice of homemade Cherry Dr Pepper cake, revealing the moist chocolate crumb and thick layer of pink cherry buttercream frosting.

Cherry Dr Pepper Cake: The Ultimate Moist & Easy Recipe

This Cherry Dr Pepper Cake is an incredibly moist and easy dessert made with a chocolate cake mix and Cherry Dr Pepper, all topped with a luscious cherry buttercream frosting. A guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 410
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 box chocolate cake mix devil's food or similar
  • 12 oz Cherry Dr Pepper one can, do not use diet
  • 3 large eggs room temperature
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1/2 cup maraschino cherries diced
  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 3 tbsp maraschino cherry juice from the jar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1-2 tbsp milk or heavy cream as needed

Equipment

  • 1 9x13 inch baking pan
  • 1 Electric mixer
  • 2 Mixing bowls

Method
 

For the Cake
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, Cherry Dr Pepper, eggs, and vegetable oil. Beat with an electric mixer on low speed until just combined, then increase to medium speed and beat for 2 minutes. Gently fold in the diced maraschino cherries.
  3. Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  4. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Do not frost while warm.
For the Frosting
  1. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until it's light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
  2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until combined. Add the maraschino cherry juice and vanilla extract.
  3. Increase the speed to medium-high and beat for 3-4 minutes until the frosting is smooth and airy. If it's too thick, add a tablespoon of milk or cream at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
  4. Once the cake is completely cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top. Garnish with whole maraschino cherries if desired.

Notes

Use full-sugar soda for the best results, as diet soda will not provide the same flavor or texture.
Ensure the cake is completely cool before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.