Description

Ready to bake something unforgettable? This Cherry Dr. Pepper Cake is a dreamy dessert that combines the rich depth of chocolate, the nostalgic fizz of soda, and the sweet pop of cherries. It’s a playful yet indulgent treat that brings retro vibes to your modern kitchen. Whether you’re searching for an easy recipe for a party, some fun dessert ideas to jazz up the weekend, or a cake for special occasions, this one’s a keeper. The texture is moist and tender, the cherry-chocolate flavor is bold and irresistible, and the glossy ganache topping adds a final flourish you’ll want to dive into. Perfect as a quick dessert idea or as a showstopper on any celebration table!

Ingredients

Cake:

1 box chocolate cake mix (Devil’s Food or classic chocolate)

1 cup Dr. Pepper (room temperature)

1/2 cup vegetable oil

3 large eggs

1/2 cup sour cream

1 tsp vanilla extract

3/4 cup chopped maraschino cherries (drained and patted dry)

Filling:

1/2 cup cherry preserves or jam

1/2 cup butter (softened)

1 cup powdered sugar

2 tbsp cocoa powder

1 tsp vanilla extract

Ganache:

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Garnish:

Fresh cherries with stems (optional)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch cake pans.
In a bowl, combine cake mix, Dr. Pepper, oil, eggs, sour cream, and vanilla. Mix until smooth.
Fold in chopped maraschino cherries.
Divide batter evenly into pans and bake for 30–35 minutes. Let cool completely.
For the filling, beat butter until creamy. Add cherry preserves, powdered sugar, cocoa, and vanilla. Beat until fluffy.
Place one cake layer on a plate. Spread filling evenly on top. Add the second cake layer.
Heat cream until just simmering. Pour over chocolate chips and stir into ganache.
Pour ganache over the cake and garnish with fresh cherries.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dessert