Introduction to Dr Pepper Cherry Cola Cake Jars
Hey there, fellow dessert lovers! If you’re looking for a fun and unique treat, let me introduce you to Dr Pepper Cherry Cola Cake Jars. This delightful dessert is not just a feast for the eyes but also a burst of flavor that will make your taste buds dance. Perfect for a quick solution on a busy day or a sweet surprise for your loved ones, these jars are a playful twist on traditional cake. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be the star of every gathering!
Why You’ll Love This Dr Pepper Cherry Cola Cake Jars
These Dr Pepper Cherry Cola Cake Jars are a delightful blend of ease and flavor. They come together quickly, making them perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. The layers of chocolate cake, cherry filling, and whipped cream create a taste sensation that’s both nostalgic and refreshing. Plus, who doesn’t love a dessert that’s as fun to eat as it is to make? You’ll be hooked after just one spoonful!
Ingredients for Dr Pepper Cherry Cola Cake Jars
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Dr Pepper Cherry Cola Cake Jars. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chocolate cake mix: This is the base of our dessert, providing a rich and moist texture.
- Dr Pepper (or cherry cola): The star ingredient! It adds a unique flavor that makes this cake truly special.
- Vegetable oil: This keeps the cake moist and tender, ensuring every bite is delicious.
- Large eggs: They help bind the ingredients together and contribute to the cake’s fluffiness.
- Cherry pie filling: This sweet and tangy layer brings a burst of fruity flavor to the jars.
- Optional Dr Pepper for the filling: Simmering this into the cherry filling enhances the cola flavor, making it even more delightful.
- Heavy whipping cream: Essential for making the light and airy whipped cream topping.
- Powdered sugar: This sweetens the whipped cream and helps it hold its shape.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla adds depth and warmth to the whipped cream.
- Maraschino cherries: These are perfect for garnishing, adding a pop of color and sweetness.
- Chocolate shavings (optional): For those who want to take their dessert to the next level, these add a touch of elegance.
For exact quantities, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy baking!
How to Make Dr Pepper Cherry Cola Cake Jars
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these Dr Pepper Cherry Cola Cake Jars! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delightful dessert that’s sure to impress.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that your cake bakes evenly. A hot oven helps the cake rise properly, giving it that fluffy texture we all love.
Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter
In a mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, Dr Pepper, vegetable oil, and eggs. The cake mix provides the base, while the Dr Pepper adds that unique flavor. The oil keeps the cake moist, and the eggs help bind everything together. Mix until smooth, but don’t overdo it—lumps are okay!
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch pan and bake for 30–35 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready! If not, give it a few more minutes. The aroma will be heavenly!
Step 4: Cool and Crumble the Cake
Once baked, let the cake cool completely in the pan. This step is essential; if you crumble it while it’s warm, you’ll end up with a soggy mess. Once cooled, break the cake into chunks. Think of it as a fun little cake puzzle!
Step 5: Prepare the Cherry Filling
In a saucepan, warm the cherry pie filling over low heat. If you want to amp up the flavor, stir in ½ cup of Dr Pepper and let it simmer until slightly thickened. This optional step adds a delightful cola twist to the filling. Let it cool before using.
Step 6: Make the Whipped Cream
In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. This means the cream should hold its shape when you lift the whisk. It’s like magic! This fluffy topping is what makes these Dr Pepper Cherry Cola Cake Jars so irresistible.
Step 7: Assemble the Jars
Now comes the fun part—layering! Start with a layer of cake crumbles at the bottom of each jar. Next, add a layer of cherry filling, followed by another layer of cake. Repeat until the jars are filled, finishing with a generous dollop of whipped cream on top. Don’t forget to make it look pretty!
Step 8: Chill and Serve
Finally, chill the assembled jars in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, garnish with maraschino cherries and optional chocolate shavings. Trust me, the wait will be worth it!
Tips for Success
- Make sure your cake is completely cool before crumbling to avoid sogginess.
- Use a high-quality chocolate cake mix for the best flavor.
- Don’t skip the chilling step; it enhances the flavors and texture.
- Feel free to experiment with different flavored sodas for a unique twist.
- For a fun presentation, use clear jars to showcase the beautiful layers.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl for combining ingredients. A sturdy pot can work in a pinch.
- Whisk or electric mixer: For beating the whipped cream. A hand whisk will do if you’re feeling adventurous!
- 9×13-inch baking pan: Essential for baking the cake. Any similar-sized pan will suffice.
- Jars or cups: For layering the dessert. Mason jars add a charming touch!
Variations of Dr Pepper Cherry Cola Cake Jars
- Cherry Cola Twist: Swap out Dr Pepper for cherry cola for an extra burst of cherry flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix to make this dessert suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
- Vegan Version: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal and use a plant-based whipped cream for a vegan-friendly treat.
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, between the layers for a delightful crunch.
- Chocolate Lovers: Incorporate chocolate chips into the cake batter for an extra chocolatey experience.
Serving Suggestions for Dr Pepper Cherry Cola Cake Jars
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
- Serve alongside a fizzy cherry cola drink to enhance the flavor experience.
- For a festive touch, add colorful sprinkles on top of the whipped cream.
- Present in clear jars to showcase the beautiful layers.
- Consider a side of fresh fruit for a refreshing balance.
FAQs about Dr Pepper Cherry Cola Cake Jars
Can I use a different soda instead of Dr Pepper?
Absolutely! While Dr Pepper adds a unique flavor, you can experiment with other sodas like cherry cola or even root beer for a fun twist. Each soda will give your cake jars a different taste experience!
How long can I store the Dr Pepper Cherry Cola Cake Jars?
These delightful jars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just make sure to keep them covered to maintain freshness. They’re perfect for meal prep or make-ahead desserts!
Can I make these jars in advance?
Yes! In fact, making Dr Pepper Cherry Cola Cake Jars a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to chill them for at least an hour before serving for the best taste.
What can I substitute for heavy whipping cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use whipped topping or a dairy-free alternative like coconut whipped cream. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly.
Are these jars suitable for kids?
Definitely! Kids will love the fun layers and the sweet flavors of Dr Pepper Cherry Cola Cake Jars. Just be mindful of the sugar content, and they’ll be a hit at any gathering!
Final Thoughts
Creating Dr Pepper Cherry Cola Cake Jars is more than just baking; it’s about crafting sweet memories. Each layer tells a story, from the rich chocolate cake to the vibrant cherry filling. The joy of assembling these jars is contagious, and the smiles they bring are priceless. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging on a cozy night in, these jars are sure to delight. So, gather your loved ones, dig in, and savor every spoonful. Trust me, this dessert will become a cherished favorite in your home, just like it has in mine!
Print
Dr Pepper Cherry Cola Cake Jars: A Unique Dessert Recipe!
- Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful dessert featuring layers of chocolate cake, cherry filling, and whipped cream, all infused with the unique flavor of Dr Pepper.
Ingredients
- 1 box chocolate cake mix
- 1 cup Dr Pepper (or cherry cola)
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 can (21 oz / 600 g) cherry pie filling
- ½ cup Dr Pepper (simmered into the filling for extra cola flavor, optional)
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Maraschino cherries (for garnish)
- Chocolate shavings (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine chocolate cake mix, Dr Pepper, oil, and eggs.
- Bake in a 9×13-inch pan for 30–35 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool completely, then crumble into chunks.
- Warm cherry pie filling in a saucepan.
- Optional: Stir in ½ cup Dr Pepper and simmer until slightly thickened for a soda-flavored boost. Let cool.
- Beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
- Place a layer of cake crumbles at the bottom of each jar.
- Add a layer of cherry filling.
- Repeat with cake and cherries.
- Top with whipped cream.
- Garnish with maraschino cherries and optional chocolate shavings.
- Chill for 1 hour before serving for best flavor.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use cherry cola instead of regular Dr Pepper.
- Make sure the cake is completely cooled before crumbling to avoid a soggy texture.
- These jars can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking and Assembling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 jar
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
