Looking for a rich, fudgy brownie with a unique twist? These Dr Pepper Brownies are just what you need! The classic chocolate brownie gets a makeover with the addition of Dr Pepper soda, which enhances the deep chocolate flavor and adds a subtle hint of vanilla and spice. A touch of instant coffee further intensifies the richness, making these brownies irresistible.
Perfect for tailgates, potlucks, or a weeknight treat, these brownies are guaranteed to be a hit. Plus, they’re easy to make with just 10 minutes of prep!
Ingredients for Dr Pepper Brownies
To make these fudgy and flavorful Dr Pepper brownies, gather the following ingredients:
Brownie Batter:
- ½ cup (1 stick) butter – Adds richness and moisture.
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips – Melted for deep chocolate flavor.
- 1 cup brown sugar – Provides sweetness with a hint of molasses.
- 2 large eggs – Helps bind the batter.
- ½ cup Dr Pepper soda – Enhances chocolate flavor and adds moisture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – For extra depth.
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour – Gives the brownies structure.
- 1 tablespoon instant coffee – Intensifies the chocolate taste.
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder – Boosts chocolate richness.
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt – Balances the sweetness.
Optional Toppings & Mix-ins:
- Extra chocolate chips for topping.
- Chopped nuts, marshmallows, or candy pieces for added texture.
- A drizzle of melted chocolate or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt.
How to Make Dr Pepper Brownies
Follow these easy steps to bake rich and fudgy Dr Pepper brownies in just 10 minutes of prep time!
1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9-inch square baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2: Melt the Chocolate & Butter
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine butter and chocolate chips.
- Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth. Be careful not to overheat.
3: Mix the Batter
- Stir in brown sugar until fully combined.
- Add eggs, one at a time, whisking well.
- Mix in Dr Pepper and vanilla extract until smooth.
4: Add the Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, instant coffee, and salt.
- Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined—do not overmix.
5: Bake the Brownies
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top if desired.
- Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few fudgy crumbs.
6: Cool & Serve
- Let brownies cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice into squares and enjoy!
Tips & Variations for the Best Dr Pepper Brownies
Pro Tips for Perfect Brownies
Choose high-quality chocolate to enhance flavor and achieve the best texture.
Melt chocolate gently to prevent scorching and maintain smooth consistency.
Prepare your pan properly by lining it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Check for doneness carefully—a toothpick should have moist crumbs, not wet batter.
Allow brownies to cool completely for clean slices, or chill them for an even neater cut.
Fun Dr Pepper Brownie Variations
Boost texture by mixing in white chocolate chips, chopped nuts, marshmallows, or crushed candy bars.
Create a swirl effect by adding Nutella, dulce de leche, or raspberry jam before baking.
Enhance richness with a topping of chocolate ganache, cream cheese frosting, or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate.
Balance flavors by sprinkling flaky sea salt for a perfect sweet-and-salty contrast.
How to Store & Reheat Dr Pepper Brownies
Storing Brownies
Keep your brownies fresh with these storage methods:
- At Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- In the Refrigerator: Keep brownies in a sealed container for up to 5 days.
- In the Freezer: Wrap brownies individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating Brownies
Want that freshly baked taste? Try these reheating tips:
- Microwave: Heat a brownie for 10-15 seconds for a warm, fudgy texture.
- Oven: Place brownies on a baking sheet and warm at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes.
- Air Fryer: Heat at 320°F (160°C) for 3-5 minutes for a slightly crisp top
Dr Pepper Brownies Recipe
Equipment
- ✔ 9-inch square baking pan
- ✔ Microwave-safe bowl
- ✔️ Mixing bowls
- ✔ Whisk & spatula
- ✔️ Measuring cups & spoons
- ✔ Parchment paper (optional)
Ingredients
- Brownie Batter:
- ½ cup 1 stick butter – Adds richness.
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips – Deep chocolate flavor.
- 1 cup brown sugar – Sweetens with a hint of molasses.
- 2 large eggs – Binds the batter.
- ½ cup Dr Pepper soda – Enhances flavor and moisture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds depth.
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour – Provides structure.
- 1 tablespoon instant coffee – Intensifies chocolate taste.
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder – Deepens richness.
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt – Balances flavors.
- Optional Mix-Ins & Toppings:
- Extra chocolate chips for topping.
- Chopped nuts marshmallows, or crushed candy bars for added texture.
- Drizzle of melted chocolate or flaky sea salt for extra indulgence.
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat & Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9-inch square baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Step 2: Melt Butter & Chocolate
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine butter and chocolate chips.
- Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
- Step 3: Mix the Batter
- Stir in brown sugar until combined.
- Add eggs one at a time, whisking well.
- Mix in Dr Pepper and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, instant coffee, and salt.
- Gently fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Step 5: Bake the Brownies
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top if desired.
- Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Step 6: Cool & Serve
- Let brownies cool for 15 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Slice and enjoy!
Video
Notes
Want a crunch? Add chopped pecans, walnuts, or crushed cookies.
For a salted caramel twist, drizzle warm caramel over cooled brownies.
To make slicing easier, chill brownies in the fridge before cutting.
Dr Pepper Brownies FAQ – Your Questions Answered!
1. Can I taste the Dr Pepper in the brownies?
Not really! While the soda enhances the chocolate flavor, its distinct taste fades during baking. However, subtle hints of vanilla and spice remain, adding depth to the brownies.
2. What does Dr Pepper do in brownies?
Dr Pepper serves multiple purposes. First, it enhances the richness of the chocolate by intensifying its flavor. Additionally, the carbonation and moisture create a soft, fudgy texture. Similar to using coffee, it brings out deeper chocolate notes, making the brownies even more delicious.
3. Can I use diet Dr Pepper instead?
Yes, but keep in mind that regular Dr Pepper contains real sugar, which contributes to the texture and sweetness. If you opt for diet soda, the brownies may turn out slightly less fudgy since artificial sweeteners behave differently when baked. However, they will still be tasty!
4. How do I make these brownies extra fudgy?
Achieving an ultra-fudgy texture requires a few key adjustments:
Bake just until done – A toothpick should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter or completely clean.
Use melted chocolate along with cocoa powder for a more intense flavor.
Avoid overmixing the batter, as too much air can make brownies more cake-like.
Let them cool completely before cutting—chilling them briefly in the fridge can help set the fudgy texture.
5. Can I make these brownies without instant coffee?
Absolutely! Although instant coffee deepens the chocolate flavor, you can skip it without affecting the overall structure. If you’d like a similar effect, try substituting with espresso powder or omitting it altogether for a pure chocolate taste.
6. What are the best mix-ins for these brownies?
To customize your brownies, consider adding extra ingredients for texture and flavor:
Boost texture with chopped nuts, white chocolate chips, or crushed candy bars.
Swirl in flavor by adding Nutella, peanut butter, or raspberry jam before baking.
Enhance richness by topping brownies with chocolate ganache or drizzling melted dark chocolate.
Balance sweetness by sprinkling flaky sea salt on top for a perfect contrast.
7. How can I make cutting brownies easier?
For clean, professional-looking slices, follow these tips:
Cool completely before slicing – Warm brownies tend to stick to the knife.
Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts.
Chill the brownies for 30 minutes before slicing for cleaner edges.
Dip the knife in hot water, then dry it before cutting for smooth slices.
8. What’s the best way to store these brownies?
Proper storage ensures your brownies stay fresh and delicious:
- At Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- In the Refrigerator: Keep refrigerated for up to 5 days in a sealed container.
- In the Freezer: Wrap individual brownies tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
9. How do I reheat brownies for a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste?
For the best results, use one of these warming methods:
Microwave: Heat a brownie for 10-15 seconds to restore its softness.
Oven: Warm at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes for a slightly crisp top.
Air Fryer: Heat at 320°F (160°C) for 3-5 minutes for a chewy, bakery-style texture.
Final Thoughts – Enjoy Your Dr Pepper Brownies!
These Dr Pepper Brownies are the ultimate fudgy, chocolatey treat with a unique twist! The soda enhances the deep cocoa flavor, while instant coffee adds richness. Whether you’re making them for a tailgate, potluck, or just a chocolate craving, these brownies will be a hit.
Serving Suggestions
🍨 With Ice Cream: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream.
☕ With Coffee: Pair with your morning coffee for an extra indulgent treat.
🍫 With Toppings: Drizzle with melted chocolate, caramel, or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt.
Tried this recipe? Let us know!
Leave a comment below if you made these brownies! Share your favorite mix-ins or how they turned out—we’d love to hear from you! 🍫🔥
