Dr Pepper Frosting Recipe
Introduction
Dr Pepper Frosting is a unique and flavorful twist on classic frosting that brings a subtle fruity and caramel-like sweetness to your desserts. Its rich blend of Dr Pepper reduction and almond and cherry extracts creates a memorable taste perfect for cupcakes, cakes, or cookies.
Ingredients
- 2 cups Dr Pepper
- 1 cup salted butter (softened)
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon almond extract
- 1 teaspoon cherry extract
Instructions
- Step 1: Pour 2 cups of Dr Pepper into a medium-sized saucepan and bring it to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer for 5 to 7 minutes until the liquid thickens to a syrupy consistency.
- Step 2: Transfer the syrup to a small bowl and refrigerate until completely cooled.
- Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, beat 1 cup of softened salted butter with a hand mixer or stand mixer until light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Step 4: Add the cooled Dr Pepper reduction, almond extract, and cherry extract to the butter and mix until smooth and combined.
- Step 5: Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing between each addition until the frosting is smooth. For a thinner consistency, add a splash of Dr Pepper as needed.
- Step 6: Use the frosting immediately or store it covered in an airtight container until ready to frost your desserts.
Tips & Variations
- For an extra cherry flavor, add more cherry extract, but do so sparingly to avoid overpowering the frosting.
- If you prefer a less sweet frosting, reduce the powdered sugar slightly and adjust the consistency with a bit more Dr Pepper syrup.
- This frosting pairs wonderfully with chocolate or vanilla cakes for a delicious contrast of flavors.
- Make sure the Dr Pepper syrup is fully cooled before mixing with butter to prevent melting and separation.
Storage
Store the frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Before using, allow it to come to room temperature and re-whip for a smooth, spreadable texture. You can also freeze the frosting for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before rewiring.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use diet Dr Pepper for the frosting?
It’s best to use regular Dr Pepper as the sugar content helps create the syrupy consistency and adds necessary sweetness. Diet versions may not reduce properly or taste quite the same.
Will this frosting harden after spreading?
The frosting will firm up slightly as it sets but should remain creamy and easy to spread. If it becomes too stiff, gently re-whip or add a splash of milk or Dr Pepper to loosen it.
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Dr Pepper Frosting Recipe
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: Enough to frost one 9-inch cake or 24 cupcakes
Description
This Dr Pepper Frosting is a uniquely flavorful and indulgent frosting recipe that combines the rich, caramel-like taste of reduced Dr Pepper soda with creamy butter and sweet powdered sugar. Enhanced with almond and cherry extracts, it lends a nostalgic, soda fountain-inspired twist to cakes, cupcakes, and other desserts, making your baked treats stand out with a soft, fluffy, and slightly syrupy sweetness.
Ingredients
Dr Pepper Reduction
- 2 cups Dr Pepper
Frosting
- 1 cup salted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon almond extract
- 1 teaspoon cherry extract
Instructions
- Reduce Dr Pepper: Pour 2 cups of Dr Pepper into a medium-sized saucepan and bring it to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer for 5 to 7 minutes until the liquid thickens and achieves a syrupy consistency.
- Cool the Reduction: Transfer the reduced Dr Pepper syrup into a small bowl and refrigerate until it is completely cooled, ensuring it will blend smoothly without melting the butter when combined.
- Beat the Butter: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat 1 cup of softened salted butter for 2 to 3 minutes until it becomes light and fluffy, creating a creamy base for the frosting.
- Combine Extracts and Reduction: Add the cooled Dr Pepper reduction along with 1 tablespoon almond extract and 1 teaspoon cherry extract to the beaten butter. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well combined and the mixture is smooth.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing in between each addition until the frosting is smooth and spreadable. If desired, add a small splash of Dr Pepper to thin the frosting for a softer texture.
- Use or Store: Immediately frost your cupcakes or cake layers with the prepared frosting, or store it covered in an airtight container until ready to use.
Notes
- Ensure the Dr Pepper reduction is completely cooled before mixing to prevent melting the butter and altering the frosting texture.
- Add powdered sugar gradually to control the consistency of the frosting based on your preference.
- The almond and cherry extracts provide a complementary flavor that enhances the nostalgic soda syrup taste but can be adjusted or omitted per taste.
- Store leftover frosting refrigerated and bring to room temperature before use for easier spreading.
- If frosting is too stiff after refrigeration, beat with a mixer before spreading.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Frosting
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Dr Pepper frosting, soda frosting, almond cherry frosting, unique frosting recipe, cake frosting, cupcake frosting, flavored frosting
