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
Scale
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
