The fusion of bubbly soda and chocolate may sound unconventional, but this vintage-inspired Dr Pepper cake offers an irresistible balance of sweetness, depth, and nostalgic charm. Born from Southern kitchens that love experimenting with pantry staples, this cake is easy to make and delivers big flavor. Let’s walk through how to make it from scratch—pecans, icing, and all.
Why Make Dr Pepper Cake?
Dr Pepper cake stands out from ordinary chocolate cakes thanks to its unique, caramel-cherry undertones delivered by the soda. When reduced and incorporated into both the batter and frosting, it adds a subtle zing that pairs beautifully with cocoa. Topped with spiced candied pecans, it’s a rich and satisfying dessert suitable for birthdays, holidays, or weekend indulgence.
Ingredients Overview
For the Candied Dr Pepper Pecans:
- Dr Pepper soda – for a rich, reduced glaze
- Unsalted butter – enhances silkiness
- Vanilla extract – brings warmth
- Chopped pecans – add crunch and nuttiness
- Granulated sugar
- Ground cinnamon and clove – for spice
- Kosher salt
For the Cake:
- Butter – unsalted preferred
- Dr Pepper soda – adds moisture and flavor
- Unsweetened cocoa powder – dark, non-Dutch processed
- All-purpose flour
- Granulated sugar
- Eggs – room temperature
- Buttermilk – for a tender crumb
- Vanilla extract
- Baking soda, cinnamon, and salt
For the Icing:
- Butter
- Cocoa powder (unsweetened)
- Whole milk
- Confectioner’s sugar (powdered sugar)
- Vanilla extract
- Ground cinnamon
- Reserved candied pecans
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Spiced Pecans
- In a skillet, simmer ⅓ cup Dr Pepper until it reduces by half (5–7 minutes).
- Add ¼ cup butter and melt completely.
- Stir in vanilla extract and chopped pecans until well coated.
- Mix in sugar, cinnamon, salt, and clove. Continue stirring for 3–4 minutes until fragrant.
- Spread pecans on parchment paper to cool completely.
2. Bake the Cake
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a saucepan, melt 1 cup butter and whisk in 1 cup Dr Pepper and ¼ cup cocoa powder.
- Bring to a slight boil, then remove from heat and let cool for 2 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine 2 cups flour and 1½ cups sugar.
- Pour cooled chocolate mixture into dry ingredients and mix well.
- Add eggs, buttermilk, vanilla, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Stir until just combined, then pour batter into prepared pan.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
3. Prepare the Chocolate Icing
- While the cake bakes, melt ½ cup butter in a saucepan.
- Add ¼ cup cocoa powder and ½ cup milk, whisking until smooth.
- Gradually whisk in 4 cups powdered sugar, adding vanilla with the last cup.
- Stir in ½ tablespoon cinnamon and 1 cup chopped candied pecans.
- Let the icing sit for 15 minutes to thicken slightly.
4. Assemble and Serve
- Pour warm frosting over the cake immediately after baking.
- Smooth with a spatula and sprinkle the remaining candied pecans on top.
- Allow the frosting to set at room temperature, or chill slightly for faster setting.
Helpful Tips
- Thin icing is normal: This frosting spreads more like a glaze than a thick whipped frosting. Let it settle naturally—it may pool at the edges.
- Want a cherry twist? Top with maraschino cherries to echo Dr Pepper’s cherry notes.
- Pecan-free option: Skip the pecans or substitute with chopped walnuts.
- Extra indulgence: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for contrast.
Storage Guide
- Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerated: Keeps for 5–6 days; allow to come to room temperature before serving.
- Freezing: Freeze unfrosted or fully assembled cake tightly wrapped for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
Nutritional Information (Per Slice)
- Calories: 491
- Carbohydrates: 94g
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 42g
- Sugar: 32g
- Fiber: 4g
Values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredient brands and substitutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute a different soda?
Yes, root beer or cherry cola can provide similar results, but the flavor will shift slightly.
Why is my frosting runny?
This icing is designed to be pourable. Letting it sit off heat for 15–20 minutes helps thicken it before pouring.
Do I need to use buttermilk?
Yes, it adds tang and moisture. You can substitute with ½ cup whole milk + 1 tsp vinegar or lemon juice if needed.
Can I skip the pecans?
Absolutely. While they add texture and flavor, this cake is delicious even without nuts.
How long does it take to prepare?
From prep to final frosting, about 45 minutes total.
Internal Linking Suggestions (from secretsofthegreengarden.com)
- How to Make Homemade Vanilla Extract
- Grow Your Own Pecans at Home
- The Secret to Moist Chocolate Cake
External Resources
- Smithsonian Magazine – History of Dr Pepper
- University of Southern Mississippi – Southern Foodways Archive
- King Arthur Baking – Cocoa Powder Types Explained
Final Notes
This Dr Pepper cake is a celebration of American comfort food and creative baking. With rich chocolate flavor, soft texture, and spiced pecan crunch, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Whether you’re reviving a retro classic or simply craving something new, this cake offers satisfaction in every bite.