Dr Pepper Sheet Cake: A Modern Classic Dessert for Every Occasion
Cozy flavors of rich cocoa and warm spices meet a playful soda-infused caramel topping.
If you love moist, flavorful cakes that can feed a crowd and come together with simple pantry staples (plus a can of soda!), Dr Pepper Sheet Cake is destined to become your next go-to dessert. This cake brings classic sheet cake nostalgia and upgrades it with the signature spicy-sweet bite of Dr Pepper, crowned by a decadent spiced caramel icing. Whether you’re baking for a potluck, a family get-together, or simply craving a new treat, this recipe delivers both in taste and simplicity.
Introduction
Sheet cakes have a longstanding tradition in home baking—easy to serve, easy to transport, and always a hit with crowds. Adding Dr Pepper to the batter brings a subtle complexity, enhancing cocoa’s richness and complementing warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg often found in autumn desserts. The result is a cake that is equal parts moist, fudgy, and aromatic, with the unmistakable caramel undertones of Dr Pepper shining through in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This cake consists of two main components: the decadent chocolate sheet cake and the irresistible caramel icing. Here is what you’ll need for each:
Cake Ingredients
- 2 sticks salted butter (1 cup), plus more for greasing the pan
- 4 heaping tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup Dr Pepper
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 heaping teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (or cinnamon/nutmeg blend)
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
Caramel Icing Ingredients
- 1 cup Dr Pepper
- 3/4 cup salted butter, cubed (1 1/2 sticks)
- 1 cup packed dark brown sugar
- 1/4 cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon light corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
- 5 cups powdered sugar
- 1 heaping teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (or cinnamon/nutmeg blend)
You’ll also need a 18-by-13-inch sheet cake pan and some basic equipment such as mixing bowls, a whisk, a saucepan, and a sifter for the icing.
Step-By-Step Directions
Sheet cake recipes are designed for ease, but this version has an irresistible twist with the caramel icing and Dr Pepper reduction. Here’s how to make this treat from scratch:
1. Prepare the Pan and Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Generously grease your sheet cake pan (18×13 inches) with butter to prevent sticking and ensure easy cake removal.
2. Make the Chocolate Dr Pepper Mixture
- Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the cocoa powder, whisking to combine and bloom the chocolate.
- Heat the Dr Pepper in a microwave-safe pitcher until hot and just bubbling (about 45–60 seconds).
- Slowly pour the hot Dr Pepper into the cocoa mixture, whisking constantly, and bring to a gentle boil. Let it bubble for 30 seconds, then remove from heat.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
4. Prepare the Wet Ingredients
- In a large measuring cup or separate small bowl, combine buttermilk, beaten eggs, vanilla extract, almond extract, and baking soda. Whisk until fully incorporated.
5. Bring It All Together
- Pour the chocolate Dr Pepper mixture over the flour mixture and stir gently to cool the batter slightly.
- Add the buttermilk-egg mixture to the bowl and fold everything together just until incorporated (avoid overmixing).
- Pour the batter into the prepared sheet pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly into the corners.
6. Bake the Cake
- Bake for about 20 minutes, or until a wooden toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool completely in the pan, at least 1 hour. This helps prevent the icing from melting into the cake.
7. Prepare the Dr Pepper Caramel Icing
- While the cake cools, bring 1 cup Dr Pepper to a boil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.
- Reduce heat and simmer until the soda reduces to about 1/4 cup (10–12 minutes). This concentrates the flavor, making the icing uniquely rich.
- Add the cubed butter and brown sugar, stirring until melted and smooth. Remove from heat.
- Whisk in buttermilk, corn syrup, vanilla extract, and almond extract until fully blended.
8. Finish the Icing
- In a large bowl, sift together powdered sugar and pumpkin pie spice to remove lumps and blend evenly.
- Gradually whisk the sifted powdered sugar mixture into the warm caramel base, whisking constantly to prevent clumps and achieve a silky, pourable icing.
9. Ice and Set the Cake
- Pour the warm caramel icing over the completely cooled cake. Use an offset spatula to spread it evenly in one swift motion—the icing sets quickly as it cools.
- Let the icing set for at least 1 hour before slicing and serving.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- Make in Advance: The Dr Pepper sheet cake can be prepared up to 2 days ahead. For best results, cover tightly with plastic wrap to keep it moist, and store in a cool, dry area.
- Freezing: Freeze the unfrosted cake (wrapped well in plastic wrap and foil) for up to 3 months. Thaw completely in the refrigerator before adding icing.
- Leftovers: Store leftover frosted cake covered at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for the freshest texture.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
The beauty of the Dr Pepper sheet cake is its versatility. It’s perfect for casual gatherings or as a striking centerpiece dessert. Consider these fun ways to serve and customize your cake:
- Dust with extra powdered sugar or pumpkin pie spice for a beautiful finish.
- Top with toasted nuts or chopped pecans for added crunch and flavor.
- Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a cool contrast to the warm spices and caramel.
- Swap the spices: Try using warm chai or gingerbread spices for a seasonal spin.
- Add orange zest to the icing for a subtle citrus note.
Expert Baking Tips for Sheet Cake Success
- Use fresh Dr Pepper: Carbonation lifts the batter slightly, so opt for a new can or bottle for best results.
- Don’t skip the boiling step: Letting the Dr Pepper-cocoa mixture bubble intensifies flavors and helps the texture.
- Let the cake cool completely before icing to prevent melting and pooling.
- Sift powdered sugar for lump-free, silky icing.
- Work quickly with the icing—it firms up as it cools, so pour and spread as soon as it’s ready.
Dr Pepper Sheet Cake Nutrition Information
| Serving Size | Calories | Fat | Sugar | Carbohydrates | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 slice (1/24 cake) | ~320 | 12g | 32g | 49g | 2g |
*Values are approximate and vary based on serving size and ingredient brands.*
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does Dr Pepper add to the cake?
Dr Pepper intensifies the cocoa flavor, adds subtle spiced and caramel notes, and helps make the cake exceptionally moist.
Can I use diet Dr Pepper?
While you can use diet Dr Pepper, classic Dr Pepper with sugar yields a richer flavor. Artificial sweeteners may alter the cake’s taste and texture.
Is buttermilk essential?
Buttermilk helps create a tender crumb and balances sweetness. If unavailable, substitute with an equal amount of milk mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar.
Can I make this cake ahead?
Yes. Dr Pepper sheet cake actually tastes better the next day after the flavors have melded. Assemble, frost, and store as directed above.
How do I freeze Dr Pepper sheet cake?
Freeze only the unfrosted cake: wrap in plastic and foil, freeze for up to three months, and thaw before icing and serving.
Why You’ll Love This Dr Pepper Sheet Cake
Few desserts balance nostalgia and novelty as well as the Dr Pepper sheet cake does. With its ultra-moist crumb, aromatic spices, and glossy caramel topping, it brings together everything home bakers love: ease, flavor, and a little flair. Whether it’s for a birthday, a holiday, or any day that needs something special, this cake will become a beloved recipe in your baking rotation.
References
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a65888742/dr-pepper-sheet-cake-recipe/
- https://www.homesicktexan.com/dr-pepper-sheet-cake/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a11901/best-chocolate-sheet-cake-recipe/
- https://www.aol.com/articles/ree-drummonds-dr-pepper-sheet-164400253.html
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g32005659/sheet-cake-recipes/
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