Cherry Dr Recipe
If you’re in the mood for a creative, crowd-pleasing dessert that packs unforgettable flavor and show-stopping charm, look no further than this Cherry Dr. Pepper Cake. This irresistible bake brings together the deep, nostalgic notes of Cherry Dr with luscious chocolate, tangy maraschino cherries, and a sweet-tart glaze, all in one incredibly easy recipe. Whether you’re hosting a potluck or just want to surprise your family, this cake is destined to become a fast favorite. Trust me, you’ll love every bite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Cherry Dr. Pepper Cake keeps things delightfully simple, relying on a handful of accessible ingredients that work together to deliver layers of flavor and the perfect, tender crumb. Each component plays a deliciously important role!
- Chocolate cake mix (15.25 oz): The base for an ultra-moist, chocolatey foundation that keeps everything effortless.
- Cherry Dr. Pepper soda (1 cup): Infuses every bite with signature cherry flavor and extra lift for a light, fluffy texture.
- Large eggs (3): Bind the batter and give your cake rich structure and moisture.
- Vegetable oil (1/2 cup): Adds tenderness and ensures the crumb stays melt-in-your-mouth soft.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Deepens flavor complexity for a warm, cozy aroma.
- Maraschino cherry juice (1/2 cup): Intensifies that cherry punch and gives your cake a hint of ruby color.
- Chopped maraschino cherries (1 cup): Sweet, chewy bites of cherry in every slice—absolutely essential for fun bursts of flavor!
- Powdered sugar (1 1/2 cups): The base for a dreamy glaze that’s silky-smooth and sweet.
- Cherry juice (2–3 tablespoons, for glaze): Ties everything together with vibrant color and lush fruitiness.
- Optional maraschino cherries for garnish: Make things as eye-catching and elegant as you like!
How to Make Cherry Dr
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Get Ready
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Give a 9×13-inch baking dish a good greasing—whether you use butter, nonstick spray, or a little of both, you’ll want your cake to pop out perfectly later. Lining it with parchment offers even more insurance against sticking.
Step 2: Mix Up That Magical Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, Cherry Dr. Pepper soda, eggs, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and maraschino cherry juice. Use a hand mixer on medium speed and beat for 2 minutes—this is when the air gets whipped in and everything comes together into a luscious, pourable batter. Now, gently fold in those chopped maraschino cherries for sweet surprise bites throughout.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Pour your silky batter into the prepared dish, using a spatula to smooth it into an even layer. Slide it onto the middle rack of your oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know the Cherry Dr is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (or with just a few tender crumbs clinging to it). Let the cake cool completely in the pan so it sets up beautifully for slicing and glazing.
Step 4: Whip Up the Cherry Dr Glaze
While your cake cools, it’s glaze time! In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar with 2 to 3 tablespoons of cherry juice until you have a smooth, pourable glaze that practically glows. Feel free to add an extra splash of juice if you like it thinner. Once the cake is cool, drizzle the glaze all over, letting it trickle down in pretty pink ribbons. For the ultimate finish, top with a handful of maraschino cherries for a burst of color and charm.
How to Serve Cherry Dr
Garnishes
This cake is already a stunner, but a few creative flourishes make it even more inviting! A generous sprinkle of maraschino cherries adds classic soda shop vibes, while a dollop of whipped cream or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creamy contrast. Don’t be afraid to scatter some shaved chocolate or a dusting of powdered sugar for that professional touch.
Side Dishes
While Cherry Dr. Pepper Cake easily shines alone, you can pair slices with a cup of rich coffee or a glass of cold milk to mellow out the sweetness. For special occasions, serve alongside a bright fruit salad, or with a simple vanilla custard for an extra-decadent dessert spread.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, try cutting the cake into small squares and serving them on a tiered platter for easy grab-and-go bites. You can also bake the Cherry Dr batter in cupcake tins for adorable individual treats. No matter how you serve it, a little playful drizzle of extra glaze and a cherry on top will have guests clamoring for seconds!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any cake left after your first serving (which is a big “if”!), simply cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container. Store at room temperature for up to 2 days, or pop it in the fridge for up to 5 days to keep it moist and flavorful.
Freezing
Want to enjoy Cherry Dr later? Slice the cooled, unglazed cake and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Store in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then glaze just before serving for best results.
Reheating
Room temperature cake is lovely, but if you want to bring a slice back to its just-baked glory, a quick 10- to 15-second burst in the microwave does the trick. The glaze softens slightly and the chocolate springs back to life. If reheating from frozen, let the cake fully thaw before warming.
FAQs
Can I use a different flavor of soda instead of Cherry Dr. Pepper?
Absolutely! Black cherry soda intensifies the cherry flavor, but feel free to experiment with other fruity favorites if you’re feeling adventurous. Just know that using Cherry Dr is what gives this cake its signature personality.
What’s the best way to chop the maraschino cherries without making a sticky mess?
Pat them dry with paper towels first, then use a sharp knife or kitchen shears for a quick chop. This helps keep the cherries from bleeding too much color into your batter and prevents sticking.
Can I make this cake in advance for a party?
You bet! Cherry Dr. Pepper Cake is a fabulous make-ahead dessert. Bake and glaze it the day before, and simply keep it covered until serving for stress-free entertaining.
Is there a way to add even more cherry flavor?
If you want a bigger cherry punch, try swapping the vanilla extract for cherry extract, or use both for a double layer of flavor. You can also add a handful of halved fresh cherries if they’re in season.
Can I turn this Cherry Dr cake into cupcakes?
Definitely! Divide the batter between lined muffin tins, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake at the same temperature for 15-18 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Glaze and garnish as you would the full cake—adorable and perfect for parties!
Final Thoughts
There’s a reason Cherry Dr. Pepper Cake has become a beloved staple in my kitchen: it’s easy, unforgettable, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re baking for a special celebration or just looking to treat yourself, I can’t recommend the Cherry Dr experience enough. Give it a try—you’ll be hooked after the first bite!
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Cherry Dr Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the sweet and unique flavor combination of Cherry Dr. Pepper Cake. This moist and flavorful dessert is perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations.
Ingredients
Cake:
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 1 cup Cherry Dr. Pepper soda
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup maraschino cherry juice
- 1 cup chopped maraschino cherries
Glaze:
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons cherry juice (for glaze)
- Optional maraschino cherries for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Mix the batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, Cherry Dr. Pepper soda, eggs, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and maraschino cherry juice. Beat with a hand mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes until smooth. Fold in the chopped maraschino cherries.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Make the glaze: While the cake cools, make the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar and cherry juice until smooth.
- Finish and serve: Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake and top with optional maraschino cherries before serving.
Notes
- For a deeper cherry flavor, substitute black cherry soda or use cherry extract in addition to the vanilla.
- This cake pairs well with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 34g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
