Dr Pepper Texas Sheet Cake is a decadent, rich dessert that combines the unique flavor of Dr Pepper with a classic chocolate cake. This cake is perfect for any occasion, from potlucks to birthdays, and is sure to impress with its moist texture and flavorful icing.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup Dr Pepper
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon Kosher salt
For the Icing:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup Dr Pepper
- 2 tablespoons whole milk
- 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon Kosher salt
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
Instructions
Making the Cake
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 13×18-inch sheet pan and set aside.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and all-purpose flour. Set aside.
- Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the unsweetened cocoa powder and Dr Pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then remove from heat.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Pour the hot cocoa mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Add Remaining Ingredients:
- Add the lightly beaten eggs, buttermilk, vanilla extract, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and Kosher salt. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Bake the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared sheet pan, spreading it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Making the Icing
- Prepare the Icing Base:
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the unsweetened cocoa powder and Dr Pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then remove from heat.
- Mix the Icing:
- Stir in the whole milk, sifted powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and Kosher salt until smooth and well combined. If the icing is too thick, add a little more milk, one teaspoon at a time, until it reaches a spreadable consistency.
- Add the Pecans:
- Stir in the chopped pecans.
Assembling the Cake
- Ice the Cake:
- Pour the warm icing over the hot cake as soon as it comes out of the oven, spreading it evenly over the surface.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before slicing and serving.
Cook’s Tips and Variations
- Substitute for Dr Pepper: If you don’t have Dr Pepper, you can use another dark soda like Coke or root beer for a slightly different flavor.
- Nuts: If you’re not a fan of pecans, you can substitute them with walnuts or omit them entirely.
- Frosting Consistency: If the frosting is too thick, add more milk, a teaspoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.
- Spice Variation: For a bit of a kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time? A: Yes, you can bake the cake a day ahead. Just keep it covered at room temperature. The flavor actually improves as it sits.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Q: Can I freeze this cake? A: Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it at room temperature before serving.
Q: Can I use a different type of flour? A: For a gluten-free version, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Note that the texture may vary slightly.
Q: What can I serve with this cake? A: This cake is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat.
Dr Pepper Texas Sheet Cake is a deliciously rich and moist dessert that brings a unique twist to the classic chocolate cake. The combination of Dr Pepper in both the cake and the icing adds a delightful depth of flavor, making this a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for gatherings, this sheet cake is easy to make and sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Enjoy baking and sharing this indulgent treat with your friends and family!
Indulge in the sweet and rich flavors of this Dr Pepper Texas Sheet Cake. With its moist texture and unique taste, this cake is perfect for any celebration. Happy baking!
