When you think of Texas desserts, the famous Texas Sheet Cake often comes to mind—rich, chocolaty, and perfect for feeding a crowd. But what if we told you there’s a way to make this iconic dessert even better? Enter the Dr. Pepper Texas Sheet Cake, a twist on the classic recipe that brings the unique flavor of Dr. Pepper soda into both the cake and the frosting.
This dessert is the perfect balance of sweetness and chocolatey goodness, infused with the subtle cherry and spice notes of Dr. Pepper. It’s easy to make and sure to become a favorite at your next family gathering, potluck, or barbecue. This sheet cake has a wonderfully moist texture and a rich frosting that takes just minutes to whip up. Let’s dive into how you can make this mouthwatering dessert!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (2 sticks) salted butter
- 1 cup Dr. Pepper soda
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Frosting:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) salted butter
- 1/4 cup Dr. Pepper soda
- 3 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 13×9-inch baking dish to ensure your cake doesn’t stick after baking.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and all-purpose flour. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Wet Mixture:
In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, Dr. Pepper, and cocoa powder. Heat this mixture on medium, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a boil. Once it’s boiling, remove it from the heat and immediately pour it over the sugar and flour mixture. Stir everything together until well mixed.
4. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, baking soda, and vanilla extract. Add this to the chocolate mixture, stirring until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and smooth.
5. Bake the Cake:
Pour the cake batter into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Prepare the Frosting:
While the cake bakes, make the frosting. In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, Dr. Pepper, and cocoa powder. Bring this mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally. Once boiling, remove it from the heat and stir in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the frosting is smooth and creamy.
7. Frost the Cake:
Once the cake is done baking, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the hot frosting over the warm cake. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the top. Let the cake cool completely before cutting and serving.
Recipe Notes
- Dr. Pepper Substitute: If you don’t have Dr. Pepper on hand, you can substitute any cola or soda of your choice, though the unique flavor profile of Dr. Pepper is what makes this cake special.
- Make it Richer: For an even richer chocolate flavor, add an extra tablespoon of cocoa powder to both the cake batter and frosting.
- Storage Tips: Store the cake at room temperature for up to three days, covered. It can also be stored in the fridge for up to a week, but bring it to room temperature before serving to maintain its soft texture.
- Add Nuts: If you like a bit of crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the frosting while it’s still warm to add texture and flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! This cake stays moist and delicious for several days. You can make it a day or two ahead of time, and the flavors will even develop a bit more as it sits. Just be sure to cover it well to prevent the frosting from hardening.
Q: What can I use instead of buttermilk?
A: If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to a cup of milk. Let it sit for a few minutes to curdle before using.
Q: Can I make this cake without cocoa powder?
A: Cocoa powder is essential to the flavor of this cake. If you’re looking for a non-chocolate alternative, you could try using a yellow cake mix and making a Dr. Pepper glaze to keep the soda’s flavor, though the result will be quite different.
Q: Can I freeze this cake?
A: Yes, you can freeze this cake. Allow the cake to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in an airtight container. Freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to serve, thaw the cake at room temperature.
Conclusion
The Dr. Pepper Texas Sheet Cake is a fun and delicious twist on the classic Texas sheet cake that brings an extra layer of flavor to the table. With its rich, moist texture and bold taste, it’s a surefire hit for anyone who loves chocolate and the unique taste of Dr. Pepper. Best of all, it’s easy to make and perfect for large gatherings. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to satisfy a sweet tooth, this cake will have everyone coming back for seconds.