Dr. Pepper Sheet Cake

Craving a chocolate cake that hits the spot but is still unique? This Dr. Pepper Sheet Cake brings a classic favorite to life with a fun, tasty twist!

The soda adds a touch of cola flavor and keeps the crumb incredibly soft, while the frosting adds a smooth sweetness.

It’s that classic sheet cake everyone loves —rich, moist, and just a little unexpected. Great for birthdays, potlucks, or as an at-home weekend treat!

As you make your way to the recipe, don’t skip the tips section — those small details help everything come out just right.

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Serves: 24
Prep time: 15 minutes
Bake time: 18 minutes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love how easy it is to make, how simple it is to serve, and how completely irresistible it tastes.

It’s baked in one pan, topped with warm frosting that melts right into the cake, and ready in less than an hour from start to finish.

Whether you’re serving a crowd or just want a tasty go-to chocolate dessert, this one’s an instant classic!

How To Make Dr. Pepper Sheet Cake

Ingredients

Cake

• 2 cups flour
• 2 cups sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 cups Dr Pepper
• 1 cup butter, sliced
• 1/4 cup baking cocoa 2 eggs

Icing

• 1/2 cup butter, cubed
• 1/3 cup Dr. Pepper
• 1/4 cup baking cocoa
• 3 3/4 cups confectioners’ sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted (optional)

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

2. Grease a 15x10x1 inch baking pan.

3. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar and baking soda.

4. In a small saucepan over medium-high heat whisk together the Dr. Pepper, butter, and cocoa.

5. Bring just to a boil.

6. Pour the chocolate mixture into the flour mixture and stir until just combined.

7. Add the eggs, stirring them in quickly.

8. Transfer to your prepared pan spreading it out evenly.

9. Bake until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean about 18 minutes.

10. Remove the cake from the oven and let cool completely.

11. For the icing in a small saucepan over medium heat whisk together the butter, Dr. Pepper, cocoa, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.

12. Once it starts to bubble shut it off and let cool slightly before pouring over the cake.

13. Sprinkle with toasted pecans or the nut of your choice.

14. Slice and serve!

Tips, Tricks and Storage

• Frosting Temperature: Let both the cake and frosting cool just a bit before spreading. You want the cake warm enough to slightly melt the frosting, creating that smooth, glossy layer on top — but not so hot that it absorbs all the icing.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix just until smooth. Overmixing can make the cake dense instead of fluffy.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Let your butter, eggs, and Dr. Pepper come to room temperature before mixing for a smooth, even batter.
• Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Substitutions and Variations

You can use any cola you like, but Dr. Pepper adds a great flavor and complements the chocolate nicely! You can also use any nuts you like for the topping, or omit them altogether. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I taste the Dr. Pepper in the cake?

You’ll notice a hint of cherry and spice, but it’s not overpowering. The soda mostly enhances the chocolate flavor and keeps the cake extra moist.

Q: Will the Dr. Pepper make it too sweet?

No. The sweetness cooks down, leaving a balanced flavor that complements the chocolate nicely.

Q: Can I use a different soda instead of Dr. Pepper?

Yes! You can swap in cola, root beer, or even cherry soda. Each one adds its own twist to the flavor. If considering diet or regular, it’s best to stick with regular soda as the sugar helps with the texture and rise.

Q: How do I make sure it stays moist?

Bake just until the cake springs back gently when touched, or a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Adding the frosting while the cake is still slightly warm helps lock in that moisture. Just make sure the cake isn’t too hot, or the frosting may soak in completely.

Q: I put the frosting on, and it all absorbed. Did I ruin the cake?

Not at all! It just means your cake will be softer, almost like a pudding-style cake. The flavors are still all there, and it’s just as delicious, just a different texture. 

Craving more Dr. Pepper Recipes? If this dessert hit the spot, you’ll probably want to try the others in our Dr. Pepper collection, with meals such as the Dr. Pepper Meatloaf or the Slow Cooker Dr. Pepper BBQ Pork Mac and Cheese Sliders.