Sheet cakes are a beloved classic, but what if you could add a unique twist with the unexpected ingredient of Dr. Pepper soda? This indulgent Dr. Pepper Sheet Cake combines rich cocoa, creamy butter, and the caramel-cherry notes of Dr. Pepper to create a moist and flavor-packed dessert. Topped with a glossy Dr. Pepper frosting, this cake is bound to be the star of any gathering!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 cup Dr. Pepper soda
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup Dr. Pepper soda
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Directions and Preparation Method
1. Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to ensure easy removal of the cake after baking. This cake is designed to be dense yet fluffy, and prepping the pan properly is key.
2. Make the Cake Batter
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the Dr. Pepper, butter, and cocoa powder.
- Stir this mixture until the butter melts and everything is smooth and well-blended.
- Remove the mixture from the heat and set aside to cool slightly. This mixture serves as the rich chocolate base for the cake.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Carefully pour the Dr. Pepper mixture over the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Overmixing can make the cake dense, so gently fold the ingredients until no dry streaks remain.
4. Add the Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the cake batter, folding until all ingredients are well incorporated and the batter is smooth.
5. Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly to ensure consistent baking.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before frosting.
6. Prepare the Frosting
- In a saucepan, combine the butter, Dr. Pepper, and cocoa powder over medium heat, stirring until smooth.
- Remove from heat and gradually add powdered sugar, stirring well after each addition. Add vanilla extract and mix until the frosting is thick, creamy, and glossy.
- If using, fold in chopped pecans to add a nutty crunch.
7. Frost the Cake
- Pour the warm frosting over the cooled cake and use a spatula to spread it evenly across the surface.
- Let the frosting set before slicing into generous squares and serving.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different soda if I don’t have Dr. Pepper? A: While Dr. Pepper gives a unique flavor, you could try root beer or cola for a similar result. However, Dr. Pepper’s blend of spices and cherry flavor adds something special.
Q: What if I don’t have buttermilk? A: A good substitute for buttermilk is to mix 1/2 cup of milk with 1/2 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken slightly, and use it as a replacement.
Q: How do I store Dr. Pepper Sheet Cake? A: This cake can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days in an airtight container. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week, ensuring it’s wrapped tightly to keep it moist.
Q: Can I freeze the cake? A: Yes, the cake can be frozen without the frosting for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and add fresh frosting when ready to serve.
Q: What other toppings go well with Dr. Pepper Sheet Cake? A: Chopped pecans or walnuts add a lovely crunch. Alternatively, try a dusting of powdered sugar, or even a layer of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Conclusion
Dr. Pepper Sheet Cake is the perfect treat for anyone who loves a rich chocolate dessert with a hint of something unexpected. The soda brings a unique depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the cocoa, and the buttery frosting takes it over the top. Whether for a birthday, potluck, or a simple weeknight treat, this Dr. Pepper Sheet Cake is sure to delight every chocolate lover!