Craving a unique and decadent dessert with a touch of Southern charm? Look no further than this Dr. Pepper Texas Sheet Cake! This delightful twist on the classic sheet cake is infused with the fizzy sweetness of Dr. Pepper soda and topped with a rich chocolate frosting. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or any day you’re in need of a little extra indulgence, this dessert is as easy to make as it is to enjoy.
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 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Frosting:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) salted butter
- 1/4 cup Dr. Pepper soda
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat Your Oven:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 13×9-inch baking dish to prepare for the cake.
2️⃣ Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and flour, stirring until well blended.
3️⃣ Prepare the Chocolate Base:
In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, Dr. Pepper soda, and cocoa powder. Heat the mixture over medium heat, bringing it to a gentle boil while stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and pour it over the sugar and flour mixture, stirring until combined.
4️⃣ Add Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, baking soda, and vanilla extract. Add this mixture to the chocolate base, stirring until the batter is smooth and well blended.
5️⃣ Bake the Cake:
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6️⃣ Prepare the Frosting:
While the cake is baking, make the frosting. In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, Dr. Pepper soda, and cocoa powder. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and stir in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until the frosting is smooth and creamy.
7️⃣ Frost the Cake:
Once the cake is done baking, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the warm frosting over the hot cake. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.
8️⃣ Cool and Serve:
Let the cake cool completely before serving to allow the frosting to set. Slice into squares and enjoy this sweet Texas treat!
Notes and Tips
- Dr. Pepper Twist: The soda adds a subtle depth and sweetness that makes this cake truly unique. For extra flavor, you can use Cherry Dr. Pepper.
- Make It Ahead: This cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Store it tightly covered at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
- Optional Add-Ons: Sprinkle chopped pecans or chocolate chips over the frosting for added texture and flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different soda?
Yes! While Dr. Pepper provides a unique flavor, you can substitute it with Coca-Cola, root beer, or even cream soda for a fun twist.
2. What can I use instead of buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, mix 1/2 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for 5 minutes. This works as a great substitute!
3. Can I make this cake in advance?
Definitely! This cake stays moist and delicious for up to three days. Store it covered at room temperature or in the refrigerator for longer storage.
4. How should I serve this cake?
This cake is delightful on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
5. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze this cake! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before serving.
Conclusion: A Cake Worth Celebrating
The Dr. Pepper Texas Sheet Cake is a true Southern classic with a modern twist. Its rich, moist texture and luscious chocolate frosting make it a dessert everyone will love. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering, a backyard barbecue, or just because, this cake is sure to become a crowd-pleaser.
Try it out, and don’t forget to share your creations on social media with #DrPepperTexasSheetCake. Happy baking! 🎂