Description
This rich and fudgy Coca Cola cake is a beloved copycat of the popular dessert served at Cracker Barrel. Featuring a moist chocolate cake enhanced with the unique flavor of Coca Cola and topped with a luscious cocoa frosting, it’s a nostalgic treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup Coca Cola (regular, not diet)
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Frosting Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup Coca Cola (regular)
- 4 cups powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by greasing it or lining with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the chocolate mixture: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 cup of butter together with 3 tablespoons of cocoa powder and 1 cup of Coca Cola, stirring occasionally until smooth and fully combined. Remove from heat once melted.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the 2 cups flour and 2 cups sugar. Pour the warm chocolate mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Add wet ingredients: Stir in 1/2 cup buttermilk, 2 beaten eggs, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until the batter is smooth and well incorporated.
- Bake the cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake in the preheated oven for approximately 35 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Prepare the frosting: While the cake is baking, combine 1/2 cup butter, 3 tablespoons cocoa powder, and 1/2 cup Coca Cola in a saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and gradually whisk in 4 cups powdered sugar until smooth.
- Frost the cake: Once the cake is done, allow it to cool for about 5 minutes. While still warm, spread the warm frosting evenly over the top. The frosting will soak into the cake slightly, creating a delicious moist texture.
- Serve: Let the cake cool completely before slicing. This cake serves approximately 12 people and is perfect for sharing at family gatherings or celebrations.
Notes
- Use regular Coca Cola, not diet, to ensure proper sweetness and texture.
- For best results, do not overmix the batter to keep the cake tender.
- Allow the cake to cool slightly before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting off completely, but spreading the frosting while warm helps it absorb better.
- Butter should be softened or melted for easier mixing in frosting preparation.
- You can substitute buttermilk with milk plus 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice if needed.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
