If you are searching for a dessert that perfectly blends rich chocolate, juicy cherries, and a hint of fizzy sweetness, the Chocolate Cherry Dr Pepper Cake Recipe is an absolute must-try. This moist and decadent cake is a delightful twist on a classic chocolate cake, where the magic of Dr Pepper soda and cherry pie filling combine to create a unique flavor experience that will impress everyone at your table. Whether you bake it for a special occasion or just a cozy treat, this cake feels like a warm hug in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients for this cake is refreshingly simple, yet each one has a starring role that adds to the cake’s irresistible flavor and texture. The balance of chocolate, cherries, and soda creates a tender crumb, a bright cherry tang, and a moist crumb that you’ll rave about.
- Chocolate fudge cake mix: The base of our cake providing rich chocolate flavor and structure with ease.
- Dr Pepper soda: Adds a subtle caramel and cherry undertone while keeping the cake irresistibly moist.
- Cherry pie filling: Brings bursts of sweet, juicy cherries adding texture and fruitiness.
- Large eggs: Help bind the ingredients together and add richness.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with a warm, sweet aroma.
- Semisweet chocolate chips (optional): For an extra chocolate kick and melty surprise in every slice.
- Powdered sugar or chocolate glaze (optional): Perfect finishing touches that add elegance and a bit of extra sweetness.
How to Make Chocolate Cherry Dr Pepper Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking pan. This ensures your cake won’t stick and makes clean-up a breeze. Proper preparation sets you up for success!
Step 2: Mix the Wet and Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add the chocolate fudge cake mix, Dr Pepper soda, cherry pie filling, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir everything together thoroughly, about 2 minutes, until the batter is smooth and fully combined. The batter will be thick with lovely flecks of cherry and chocolate.
Step 3: Fold in Chocolate Chips
If you’re including chocolate chips, gently fold them into the batter now. They melt beautifully during baking and create little pockets of melted chocolate that make each bite extra special.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cherry filling keeps the cake moist and tender, so don’t be tempted to overbake!
Step 5: Cool and Add Your Favorite Toppings
Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan. This helps it set, making it easier to cut and serve. Before serving, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with chocolate glaze if you want that extra decadent finish.
How to Serve Chocolate Cherry Dr Pepper Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like a light dusting of powdered sugar can make the cake look effortlessly elegant. For an indulgent touch, a drizzle of chocolate glaze or a few fresh cherries on top elevate the presentation and flavor beautifully.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The cold creaminess balances the rich chocolate and cherries perfectly and adds a refreshing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the cake into squares and place it on a platter surrounded by whole cherries or chocolate shavings. You can also serve it as mini trifle portions layered with whipped cream and fresh berries for a show-stopping dessert variation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cake keeps well covered at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, place it in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain its moisture and flavor.
Freezing
This cake freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
To enjoy the cake warm, heat a slice gently in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds. This helps revive the moistness and melts the chocolate chips for a gooey texture that’s just heavenly.
FAQs
Can I use a different soda instead of Dr Pepper?
Absolutely! While Dr Pepper adds a unique blend of flavors, you can experiment with other sodas like cola or cherry soda. Just keep in mind that the final taste will vary slightly.
Do I need to use the cherry pie filling or can I substitute fresh cherries?
The cherry pie filling provides sweetness and a characteristic texture that fresh cherries can’t quite replicate. If you prefer fresh cherries, chop them finely and toss with a bit of sugar, but expect a less syrupy result.
Is this cake gluten-free?
Since the recipe uses a boxed chocolate fudge cake mix, it’s typically not gluten-free. However, if you find a gluten-free chocolate cake mix, you can substitute it to make this recipe work for gluten-sensitive diets.
Can I make this recipe in a bundt pan?
Yes! Using a bundt pan works perfectly. Just increase the baking time to about 40 to 45 minutes and check for doneness with a toothpick.
Does the cake need frosting?
Not at all! Thanks to the cherry pie filling and soda, this cake is super moist and flavorful on its own. Frosting is entirely optional if you want to add more sweetness or decoration.
Final Thoughts
If you haven’t yet tried the Chocolate Cherry Dr Pepper Cake Recipe, you’re truly missing out on one of the most fun and delicious cake experiences out there. It’s a sweet, easy, and satisfying way to bring smiles to your family and friends. So go ahead, bake it, share it, and watch it become a new favorite in your dessert rotation!
Print
Chocolate Cherry Dr Pepper Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in this rich and moist Chocolate Cherry Dr Pepper Cake, combining the unique flavors of cherry pie filling and Dr Pepper soda with classic chocolate fudge cake mix. This easy-to-make American dessert is perfect for gatherings or a special treat, requiring minimal prep and baking time. Optional chocolate chips and a dusting of powdered sugar or chocolate glaze enhance its decadent appeal.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate fudge cake mix
- 1 can (12 oz) Dr Pepper soda
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Additions
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- Powdered sugar or chocolate glaze for topping
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare the pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix the batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate fudge cake mix, Dr Pepper soda, cherry pie filling, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until smooth and fully combined, which usually takes about 2 minutes.
- Add chocolate chips: If using, gently fold in the semisweet chocolate chips to incorporate a delicious chocolate burst throughout the cake.
- Pour and bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly to promote uniform cooking. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and serve: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan to set properly. Before serving, optionally dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with chocolate glaze for an extra touch of sweetness and decoration.
Notes
- This cake is super moist and rich, so frosting is optional based on personal preference.
- You can bake this cake in a bundt pan; if so, adjust the baking time to 40–45 minutes to ensure it cooks through.
