In this study, graphitic carbon nanocages (CNCs) with high electrical conductivity were prepared by a solvothermal reaction. Transmission electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy were performed to characterize the morphology and structure of the CNCs. Due to their specific chemical structure, the CNCs provided the modified electrode with a high detecting selectivity as well as sensitivity toward dopamine (DA). Their excellent electrochemical catalytic activityies toward DA were investigated by cyclic voltammetry and differential pulse voltammetry. Under the optimum conditions, the peak current of DA was linear with its concentration in the range of 1–100 μM, and the detection limit was estimated to be 0.18 μM (S/N = 3). This modified glassy carbon electrode showed potential applications in the selective determination of DA due to its attractive merits.