If you love an irresistible combination of rich chocolate, bright cherries, and a hint of fizzy soda magic, then this Chocolate Cherry Dr Pepper Cake Recipe will quickly become one of your all-time favorites. It’s a wonderfully moist and flavorful dessert that brings together the deep cocoa notes with the sweet tartness of cherry pie filling, all elevated by the unique touch of Dr Pepper soda. This cake is not just delicious but easy to make, perfect for any occasion where you want to impress with something wonderfully homestyle yet slightly unexpected.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple but essential ingredients come together to create a beautiful balance of flavors and textures in this cake. Each element plays a crucial role, from the chocolate fudge mix giving depth to the cake, to the Dr Pepper adding moisture and a lovely fruity undertone.
- Chocolate fudge cake mix: Provides the rich chocolate base and structure for the cake.
- Dr Pepper soda (12 oz): Adds moisture along with a subtle cherry and spice flavor that’s uniquely delicious.
- Vegetable oil (1/2 cup): Keeps the cake tender and moist throughout baking.
- Large eggs (3): Bind the ingredients and contribute to a light texture.
- Cherry pie filling (21 oz): Adds juicy bursts of cherry flavor and a lovely sweetness to each bite.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances overall flavor depth and warmth.
- Almond extract (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Intensifies the cherry flavor with a nutty note if you choose to include it.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1 cup): Sprinkled on top for melty chocolate pockets and added texture.
How to Make Chocolate Cherry Dr Pepper Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish so that the cake bakes evenly and releases easily. This small prep step sets the stage for a perfect bake every time.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate fudge cake mix, Dr Pepper, vegetable oil, and eggs. Use a hand mixer or whisk to blend the ingredients until the batter is smooth and uniform with no lumps. This mix of ingredients is key to achieving that moist, fluffy texture you’re after.
Step 3: Fold in Cherry Pie Filling and Extracts
Gently fold the cherry pie filling into the batter along with the vanilla extract and almond extract if you’re using it. This folding technique keeps the cherries in tact, so you get delightful bursts of fruit in each slice without deflating your batter.
Step 4: Pour and Add Chocolate Chips
Pour the batter carefully into your prepared dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Then sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly over the top – these will melt into gooey pockets during baking, adding a delicious finish.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake your cake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking times can vary slightly based on your oven, so keep an eye on that golden, set surface!
Step 6: Cool and Slice
Once baked, allow your cake to cool completely before slicing. This rest time helps the flavors meld and the texture settle, making each piece wonderfully tender and moist.
How to Serve Chocolate Cherry Dr Pepper Cake Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Chocolate Cherry Dr Pepper Cake Recipe even more, top it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Fresh cherries or a light dusting of powdered sugar also make stunning finishing touches that add extra appeal and flavor.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or a rich glass of milk. For an extra festive dessert spread, serve alongside fresh fruit or a small dish of warm custard to complement the chocolate and cherry notes.
Creative Ways to Present
Try individual servings by spooning the cake into decorative ramekins topped with a cherry and chocolate drizzle, or layer it as a trifle with whipped topping and cherry preserves for a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for sharing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover cake tightly in plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This will help maintain the cake’s moisture and fresh flavor without drying out.
Freezing
You can freeze this cake for longer storage by wrapping it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture.
Reheating
If you prefer warm cake, reheat individual slices gently in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or warm in a low oven covered with foil to prevent drying, just until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use a different soda instead of Dr Pepper?
Yes, although Dr Pepper adds a unique cherry and spice flavor, you can try other sodas like cola or cherry soda. The flavor profile will change slightly but the cake will still be moist and delicious.
Is the almond extract necessary?
Almond extract is optional but recommended to enhance the cherry flavor. If you don’t have it or prefer to skip it, the cake will still be scrumptious with just vanilla extract.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
If you use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix, this recipe can be adapted for gluten-free diets. Just be sure all other ingredients, like your cherry pie filling, are also gluten-free.
How long will the cake stay moist?
This cake stays moist for several days when stored properly thanks to the soda and pie filling. It’s ideal for making ahead or for gatherings where you want lasting freshness.
Can I double the recipe for a larger cake?
Absolutely! Just double all ingredients and bake in a larger pan or two pans, adjusting baking time slightly to ensure the cake is cooked through without burning the edges.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly delightful about the playful yet perfect combination of chocolate, cherries, and the surprising sparkle of Dr Pepper in this cake. The Chocolate Cherry Dr Pepper Cake Recipe is a wonderful treat to brighten any day or occasion, and it’s so simple that you’ll want to make it again and again. Don’t hesitate to give it a try—you might just find your new favorite dessert to share with friends and family!
Print
Chocolate Cherry Dr Pepper Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Chocolate Cherry Dr Pepper Cake is a moist and flavorful dessert that combines the rich taste of chocolate fudge cake with the unique sweetness of Dr Pepper soda and cherry pie filling. Enhanced with vanilla and optional almond extract, and topped with melty semi-sweet chocolate chips, this cake is perfect for potlucks, holidays, or any indulgent occasion.
Ingredients
Cake Batter
- 1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate fudge cake mix
- 1 can (12 oz) Dr Pepper soda
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
Additional Ingredients
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate fudge cake mix, Dr Pepper soda, vegetable oil, and eggs. Use a hand mixer or whisk to beat the ingredients together until the batter is smooth and well blended.
- Add Flavorings and Cherry Filling: Fold in the cherry pie filling gently to distribute it throughout the batter without breaking it down too much. Then stir in the vanilla extract and almond extract if using, to enhance the flavor.
- Pour Batter and Add Chocolate Chips: Pour the prepared batter into the greased baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly over the top of the batter for a decadent finish.
- Bake the Cake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is fully cooked.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan before slicing. Serve as is or topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Notes
- For an extra indulgent treat, top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
- Almond extract enhances the cherry flavor but can be omitted if preferred.
- This cake stays moist for several days, making it a great option for potlucks or holiday gatherings.
