Description
This nostalgic Coca Cola Cake recipe combines the unique flavor of Coca-Cola with rich cocoa in a moist, tender cake topped with a luscious chocolate frosting made with more Coca-Cola for extra moisture and sweetness. Perfect for gatherings or anytime you want a delicious twist on classic chocolate cake.
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 the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper, making sure the corners are well covered to prevent sticking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
- Cook the cocoa-Cola mixture: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter, cocoa powder, and Coca-Cola. Stir constantly and bring the mixture to a gentle boil until everything is melted and smooth, creating a rich chocolate base.
- Combine wet and dry: Immediately pour the hot Coca-Cola mixture over the flour mixture. Stir gently until just combined, making sure no dry pockets remain to keep the batter smooth.
- Add remaining ingredients: Stir in the eggs, buttermilk, baking soda, and vanilla extract until the batter is smooth. If using marshmallows, fold them in last to incorporate without breaking them up.
- Bake the cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, ensuring the cake is fully cooked.
- Prepare the frosting: While the cake is baking, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the Coca-Cola and cocoa powder and bring just to a boil, stirring constantly to blend flavors.
- Finish the frosting: Remove the saucepan from heat and gradually whisk in the sifted powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, until the frosting is smooth and spreadable. Stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor.
- Frost the cake: As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, pour the warm frosting evenly over the hot cake. Use an offset spatula or spoon to spread it to the edges. The frosting will slightly soak into the cake as it sets, enhancing moisture.
- Cool and serve: Let the cake cool slightly at room temperature before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best texture and flavor enjoyment.
Notes
- Using regular Coca-Cola (not diet) is essential for proper texture and sweetness.
- Optional marshmallows add a fun, gooey texture inside the cake.
- Make sure to sift powdered sugar for the frosting to avoid lumps.
- For best results, let the cake cool slightly but frost while warm to allow frosting to soak in.
- You can substitute buttermilk with milk plus 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice if unavailable.
