Name: Dr Pepper Cake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 24 Servings
Cuisine: American

Real Life of Lulu Verified

January 22, 2026

Say hello to the Dr Pepper Cake that tastes like a soda-shop throwback. Warm fudge and even more Dr Pepper soak into a chocolate poke cake, then a cherry frosting and drizzle finish it off. It’s easy, a little outrageous, and the pan comes back empty every time.

From the Cook

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Dr Pepper Cake

Real Life of Lulu Verified

Ingredients

WarningMilk and 5 other allergens identified

Instructions

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350℉.

Grease a 9"x13" baking dish and set aside.

Combine cake mix and the 12 ounce can of Dr Pepper in a large bowl. Mix until well combined.

Pour the batter into the pan.

Bake for 25-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

While the cake is cooking, combine the hot fudge and ½ cup of Dr Pepper in a small saucepan over medium heat. Let it simmer for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.

Remove from the heat and set aside.

After letting the cake cool for 10 minutes, poke the holes in a neat grid and stop just shy of the bottom so slices hold together.

Pour the hot fudge mixture into the holes, reserving a small amount of the hot fudge mixture for drizzling.

Frosting

Beat butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and Maraschino cherry juice together in a mixing bowl using an electric mixer.

Spread the frosting on the cooled cake and decorate it with Maraschino cherries and hot fudge drizzle.

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Tips & Tricks (5)

Dr Pepper Moisture Magic 💦
When poking holes in the cake, use a wooden skewer and pour the Dr Pepper slowly to ensure maximum liquid absorption without making the cake soggy.
Cherry Frosting Precision 🍒
Reserve a few tablespoons of maraschino cherry juice to adjust frosting consistency, allowing you to create the perfect spreadable texture without losing flavor intensity.
Fudge Drizzle Technique 🍫
Warm the hot fudge sauce slightly before drizzling to achieve a smooth, elegant flow that evenly covers the cake's surface without clumping.
Cake Mix Enhancement 🥄
Replace water in the cake mix with Dr Pepper for an intensified soda flavor, and add an extra egg for a more tender, rich crumb.
Chill for Flavor Fusion 🧊
Let the cake rest in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours after adding Dr Pepper and fudge to allow flavors to meld and create a more cohesive dessert experience.