Yields: 22-24 cupcakes
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Bake Time: 20-25 minutes
Ingredients – Cupcakes:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix
- 1 cup (240 ml) Dr Pepper, room temperature
- 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
Ingredients – Dr Pepper Chocolate Frosting:
- 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3-4 cups powdered sugar (confectioner’s sugar)
- 1/4 cup (22g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/3 cup (80ml) Dr Pepper
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions – Cupcakes:
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line two standard 12-cup muffin tins with paper liners.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the Dr Pepper, melted butter, and eggs until well combined.
- Add Cake Mix: Gradually add the chocolate cake mix to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just incorporated. Avoid overmixing.
- Bake: Fill each cupcake liner about 2/3 full. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Let the cupcakes cool in the pans for 5-10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Instructions – Frosting:
- Beat Butter: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
- Add Sugar & Cocoa: Gradually add half the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, beating on low speed until incorporated.
- Add Liquid: Add 1/4 cup of the Dr Pepper and vanilla extract, then beat on medium speed until combined.
- Adjust Consistency: Gradually add the remaining powdered sugar, beating until you reach your desired frosting consistency. If it’s too thick, add a bit more Dr Pepper. If too thin, add more powdered sugar. Add a pinch of salt to taste.
- Frost Cupcakes: Once the cupcakes are completely cool, frost them generously using a piping bag or frosting knife.
Tips:
- Room temperature ingredients: Using room temperature ingredients ensures everything mixes evenly and results in a fluffier cupcake.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the cupcakes a day in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Frost them just before serving.
- Extra Flavor: Consider adding a tablespoon or two of Dr Pepper concentrate to the frosting for an even more intense flavor.
- Decorate: Get creative! Decorate with sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, or a drizzle of chocolate ganache.
Enjoy your delicious Dr Pepper Chocolate Cupcakes!
