Welcome to a sweet adventure that’s sure to elevate your baking game and impress anyone with a penchant for unique desserts. Today, we’re diving into the world of soda-infused cakes with a twist that combines rich chocolate, the unique tang of Dr. Pepper Cherry, and the unmistakable sweetness of maraschino cherries. This Cherry Dr. Pepper Cake isn’t just a cake; it’s an experience, perfect for any gathering, celebration, or a quiet night in when you crave something decadently different.
Ingredients:
- For the Cake:
- 15.25 ounce (432 g) box super moist chocolate fudge cake mix, dry
- 12 ounces (355 ml) Dr. Pepper Cherry, room temperature
- 18 ounces (510 g) maraschino cherries, divided
- For the Cherry Buttercream:
- 1 cup (226 g) salted butter
- 7 cups (840 g) powdered sugar
- 6 tablespoons (90 ml) maraschino cherry juice (from the cherry jar)
Directions:
- Preheat and Prepare: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, grab your 9x13x2 baking pan and give it a good spray with cooking spray. This ensures your cake will slide out effortlessly once it’s done baking.
- Mix It Up: In a large mixing bowl, combine your dry chocolate fudge cake mix with the room temperature Dr. Pepper Cherry. Whisk these together until you’ve got a smooth and well-combined batter. This is where the magic starts – the soda not only adds a unique flavor but also creates an incredibly moist cake.
- Cherry Time: Take your maraschino cherries and set aside 24 for garnishing later. Remove their stems and quarter them. Fold these cherry pieces gently into your cake batter until they’re evenly distributed. This adds delightful bursts of cherry flavor throughout your cake.
- Bake to Perfection: Pour your batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Pop it into the center of your preheated oven for about 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Frosting Fun: While your cake is baking and filling your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas, it’s time to make the cherry buttercream. In a stand mixer (or using a hand mixer in a large bowl), beat the butter until it’s light and fluffy, which should take about 3 minutes. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, ensuring it’s well beaten after each addition. Add the maraschino cherry juice and beat until your frosting is irresistibly light and fluffy.
- The Finishing Touches: Once your cake has cooled, spread the cherry buttercream generously over the top. Garnish with the remaining maraschino cherries for that extra cherry on top, both literally and figuratively.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
This Cherry Dr. Pepper Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a testament to the joy of baking and the delight of experimenting with flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe promises a fun baking experience and a deliciously unique cake that’s bound to be the talk of any table it graces. Enjoy the process, indulge in the taste, and don’t forget to share your sweet creation!