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Dr Pepper Cake with Fudgy Frosting

This Dr Pepper Cake with Fudgy Frosting is a soft and rich sheet cake with a nostalgic flavor and a fudgy finish, perfect for gatherings and special occasions.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 24 servings
Course: Cake, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 330
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cake
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter Use more butter instead of shortening for a richer flavor.
  • 1/2 cup vegetable shortening
  • 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder Consider Dutch-process cocoa for a deeper chocolate taste.
  • 1 1/4 cups Dr Pepper Use fresh, carbonated for best results.
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk Substitute with whole milk or yogurt if necessary.
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • Nonstick spray For greasing the pan.
For the Fudgy Frosting
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup Dr Pepper Use while fizzy for best flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons whole milk
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup chopped toasted pecans Optional topping.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 18x13-inch rimmed baking sheet with nonstick spray.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt until evenly mixed.
Cake Mixture
  1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter, shortening, cocoa powder, and Dr Pepper, bringing it to a boil while stirring often.
  2. Once smooth and hot, remove the mixture from the heat and pour it over the dry ingredients, whisk, and then add the buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla.
  3. Mix until smooth, spread the batter into the prepared pan, and tap gently to release air bubbles.
  4. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until the center springs back when lightly pressed.
Frosting
  1. While the cake is baking, prepare the frosting by combining butter, Dr Pepper, milk, and cocoa powder in a small saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Stir until the butter melts, whisk until smooth, then remove from heat and mix in powdered sugar and vanilla until combined.
  3. Pour the hot frosting over the warm cake immediately and spread before it sets. Optionally, sprinkle with toasted pecans.

Notes

Serve this cake with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or fresh berries. It also pairs nicely with a cold glass of milk or a cup of coffee or tea.