Description
This classic Coca Cola Cake is a nostalgic Southern dessert that combines the rich flavor of chocolate with the unique sweetness of Coca-Cola, creating a moist and tender cake with a luscious, fudgy frosting. Perfect for gatherings or a comforting treat, it is effortlessly baked and topped with a warm frosting that seeps into the cake for maximum indulgence.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cake
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup Coca-Cola (not diet)
- 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 1 cup mini marshmallows
For the Chocolate Frosting
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 1/4 cup Coca-Cola
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 1/2 to 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan and Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper, ensuring the corners are well covered for easy cake removal.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt until evenly combined. Set this dry mixture aside.
- Cook the Coca-Cola Mixture: Heat the butter, cocoa powder, and Coca-Cola in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly and bring the mixture to a gentle boil until all ingredients are melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Immediately pour the hot Coca-Cola mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir gently to combine, making sure there are no lumps or dry pockets of flour left.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Incorporate the eggs, buttermilk, baking soda, and vanilla extract into the batter. Stir until the batter is smooth. If desired, fold in mini marshmallows for added texture and flavor.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter evenly into your prepared baking dish. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Prepare the Frosting: While the cake bakes, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the Coca-Cola and cocoa powder, bringing the mixture just to a boil while stirring constantly.
- Finish the Frosting: Remove the saucepan from heat and gradually whisk in the sifted powdered sugar, adding 1 cup at a time until the frosting becomes smooth and spreadable. Stir in the vanilla extract for extra flavor.
- Frost the Cake: When the cake comes out of the oven, immediately pour the warm frosting evenly over the top. Use an offset spatula or spoon to spread it to the edges. The frosting will soak slightly into the cake as it cools, adding moisture and richness.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool slightly at room temperature for optimal slicing and texture. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best eating experience.
Notes
- For a more traditional Southern twist, you can add mini marshmallows into the batter as an option.
- Ensure the Coca-Cola is not diet soda, as sugar content affects the cake texture and sweetness.
- Use full-fat buttermilk or substitute with regular milk plus 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice.
- Greasing and flouring the pan or using parchment paper prevents sticking for easy cake removal.
- This cake is best enjoyed within 2-3 days and can be stored covered at room temperature.
- For a more decadent frosting, you can add a pinch of salt or use a mix of powdered sugar and cocoa for customization.
