Cupcakes and soda might not seem like an obvious pairing, but Dr Pepper cupcakes are here to change that! These rich, moist chocolate cupcakes are infused with the distinct, slightly spiced, cherry-vanilla flavor of Dr Pepper, making them a must-try for soda lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike. Topped with a luscious Dr Pepper-infused frosting, these treats offer a perfect balance of sweetness, depth, and nostalgia in every bite.

Originating from the love of incorporating soda into baked goods, these cupcakes pay homage to Dr Pepper’s unique 23-flavor blend. Whether you’re making them for a birthday, party, or just a fun weekend bake, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, the recipe is straightforward, making it easy for beginners and experienced bakers alike to enjoy the process.

Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
All-purpose flour	1 ¾ cups
Granulated sugar	1 cup
Brown sugar (packed)	½ cup
Cocoa powder (unsweetened)	½ cup
Baking soda	1 tsp
Baking powder	½ tsp
Salt	½ tsp
Dr Pepper (not diet)	1 cup
Unsalted butter (melted)	½ cup
Eggs	2 large
Vanilla extract	1 tsp
Buttermilk	½ cup

Dr Pepper Frosting

Ingredient	Quantity
Unsalted butter (softened)	1 cup
Powdered sugar	3 cups
Cocoa powder	¼ cup
Dr Pepper (reduced)	4 tbsp
Vanilla extract	1 tsp
Heavy cream (if needed)	1-2 tbsp

Equipment Needed

Mixing Bowls – For combining dry and wet ingredients separately.
Electric Mixer or Whisk – Ensures smooth batter and frosting.
Cupcake Liners and Muffin Tin – Helps shape and bake cupcakes evenly.
Saucepan – To reduce Dr Pepper for a stronger flavor in the frosting.
Cooling Rack – Prevents soggy bottoms and helps cupcakes cool faster.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Dr Pepper Reduction

Pour ½ cup of Dr Pepper into a saucepan and simmer over low heat until it reduces by half (to about ¼ cup). This intensifies the soda’s flavor. Let it cool completely before using it in the frosting.

Step 2: Making the Cupcake Batter

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugars, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.

In a separate bowl, whisk melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, buttermilk, and Dr Pepper until well combined. Slowly mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 3: Baking the Cupcakes

Fill each cupcake liner two-thirds full with batter. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a cooling rack.

Step 4: Making the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing until smooth. Add the Dr Pepper reduction and vanilla extract, beating until fully incorporated. If needed, add 1-2 tbsp of heavy cream for a lighter texture.

Step 5: Frosting the Cupcakes

Once the cupcakes are completely cool, use a piping bag or spatula to frost them generously. Garnish with chocolate shavings, a cherry, or a drizzle of reduced Dr Pepper syrup for extra flair.

Tips and Variations

Soda Selection: Stick with regular Dr Pepper for the best flavor. Diet versions lack the sugar content needed for proper baking chemistry.
Buttermilk Substitute: If you don’t have buttermilk, mix ½ cup milk with ½ tbsp vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for 5 minutes.
Make It a Cake: Instead of cupcakes, bake the batter in an 8-inch round cake pan at 350°F for 30-35 minutes.
Extra Chocolatey: Stir in ½ cup of mini chocolate chips to the batter for added richness.
Boozy Version: Add 1 tbsp of bourbon or cherry liqueur to the frosting for an adult twist.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these cupcakes with a tall glass of cold milk or a vanilla milkshake for a nostalgic treat.
Top each cupcake with a maraschino cherry and a straw for a fun, soda-fountain aesthetic.
Pair with a side of vanilla or cherry ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Pairings

Drinks That Complement Dr Pepper Cupcakes

Dr Pepper Float: Vanilla ice cream topped with Dr Pepper for a fizzy, creamy delight.
Cherry Cola Cocktail: A mix of cherry liqueur, cola, and a splash of rum for a boozy kick.
Espresso or Cold Brew Coffee: The deep coffee notes contrast beautifully with the sweetness.

Storage and Reheating

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days, but bring them to room temperature before serving.
Freezing: Freeze unfrosted cupcakes for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before frosting.

Nutritional Information (Per Cupcake)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~280
Carbohydrates	40g
Fat	12g
Protein	3g
Sugar	30g

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Conclusion

Dr Pepper cupcakes are a delightful twist on traditional chocolate cupcakes, blending the rich flavors of cocoa with the unique, slightly spiced sweetness of the beloved soda. The result is a moist, fluffy treat with hints of vanilla, cherry, and caramel, making each bite irresistibly indulgent. Topped with a smooth, creamy Dr Pepper-infused frosting, these cupcakes capture the nostalgic essence of soda-fountain desserts while adding a fun and unexpected flavor profile. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Dr Pepper or simply looking for a creative baking project, these cupcakes are guaranteed to impress.

Perfect for birthdays, parties, or a weekend baking session, this recipe is easy to follow and can be customized with different toppings and variations. Serve them alongside a cold glass of milk, a Dr Pepper float, or a warm cup of coffee for the ultimate treat. Try making them today, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family—after all, good food is meant to be enjoyed together!