Introduction: Can a Cake Be Moist, Chocolaty, and Fizzy with Soda Pop?
Ever craved a dessert that’s rich, indulgent, and infused with a unique twist? Coco-Cola Cake is a Southern favorite, featuring a moist, chocolatey cake made with cola and topped with a decadent cola-infused frosting studded with pecans. Perfect for potlucks, birthdays, or any gathering, this cake is a delightful blend of familiar and surprising flavors. Ready to bake a slice of Southern charm? Let’s dive into this fizzy, delicious recipe!
Overview: Why Coco-Cola Cake is a Southern Classic
Coco-Cola Cake is a beloved dessert known for its tender, moist texture and unique cola flavor, paired with a rich, nutty frosting. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make. Here’s what makes it special:
- Time Requirement: About 20 minutes to prep, 40 minutes to bake, plus frosting time.
- Difficulty Level: Easy—requires simple mixing and baking, ideal for beginners.
- Why It’s Special: The cola adds moisture and a subtle caramel-like flavor, while the marshmallows melt into the cake for a gooey texture. The frosting’s pecans add crunch and richness. This recipe yields 18 servings, perfect for large gatherings.
Ideal for barbecues, holidays, or any occasion where you want a fun, flavorful dessert, Coco-Cola Cake is a nostalgic treat that’s sure to impress.
Essential Ingredients
Coco-Cola Cake uses pantry staples and cola to create its signature moist cake and rich frosting. Here’s what you’ll need for 18 servings:
For the Cola Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the cake’s structure.
- 2 cups white sugar: Sweetens the cake for a balanced flavor.
- 1 cup butter: Adds richness and moisture.
- 1 cup cola-flavored carbonated beverage: Provides moisture and a unique caramel-like flavor (e.g., Coca-Cola).
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder: Gives the cake its chocolatey depth.
- 1 ½ cups miniature marshmallows: Melt into the cake for a gooey texture.
- ½ cup buttermilk: Adds moisture and a slight tang.
- 2 large eggs: Provide structure and richness.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cake rise.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor.
For the Cola Frosting:
- ½ cup butter: Creates a rich, creamy base.
- 6 tablespoons cola-flavored carbonated beverage: Adds flavor and moisture to the frosting.
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder: Deepens the chocolate flavor.
- 4 cups confectioners’ sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
- 1 cup chopped pecans: Adds crunch and nutty flavor.
Why These Ingredients Matter
- Cola: Adds moisture and a subtle caramel flavor that makes the cake unique.
- Marshmallows: Melt during baking, creating a fudgy, moist texture.
- Cocoa Powder: Provides a rich chocolate flavor in both cake and frosting.
- Pecans: Add texture and a Southern touch to the frosting.
Substitutions and Variations
- Cola: Use any cola-flavored soda (e.g., Pepsi, RC Cola) or even root beer for a different twist.
- Butter: Replace with vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
- Buttermilk: Substitute with ½ cup milk mixed with ½ tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar, rested for 5 minutes.
- Pecans: Swap with walnuts, almonds, or omit for a nut-free version.
- Vegan Option: Use vegan butter, flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water per egg), and plant-based milk; ensure cola and marshmallows are vegan-friendly.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the cake.
- Spiced Cola Cake: Add ½ teaspoon cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm spice note.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making Coco-Cola Cake is a simple process that yields a moist, flavorful cake with a decadent frosting. Let’s get baking!
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Tip: Use parchment paper overhanging the sides for easy removal and clean-up.
Step 2: Make the Cola Cake Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups all-purpose flour and 2 cups white sugar.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup butter, 1 cup cola-flavored carbonated beverage, and 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder. Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally.
- Pour the hot cola mixture over the flour-sugar mixture and mix well until smooth.
- Stir in 1 ½ cups miniature marshmallows, ½ cup buttermilk, 2 large eggs, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until well combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading evenly.
Tip: Stir gently after adding marshmallows to keep some texture, as they’ll melt into the batter.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and prepare the frosting while the cake is still hot.
Tip: Check at 35 minutes to avoid overbaking; the cake should be moist but set.
Step 4: Make the Cola Frosting
- In a saucepan, combine ½ cup butter, 6 tablespoons cola-flavored carbonated beverage, and 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder. Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally.
- Pour the hot mixture over 4 cups confectioners’ sugar in a large bowl and mix until smooth.
- Stir in 1 cup chopped pecans.
Tip: Work quickly to mix the frosting, as it thickens as it cools.
Step 5: Frost the Cake
- Spread the warm cola frosting evenly over the hot cake, allowing it to soak in slightly for a fudgy texture.
Tip: Pour the frosting evenly and use an offset spatula to spread it smoothly over the cake.
Step 6: Serve
- Let the cake cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing into 18 pieces.
- Serve at room temperature or slightly warm for the best flavor.
Tip: Use a sharp knife for clean cuts through the nutty frosting.
Assembly: Building the Perfect Coco-Cola Cake
Assembling Coco-Cola Cake is all about creating a moist, chocolatey cake with a rich, nutty frosting. Here’s how to make it shine:
- Cake Batter: Mix thoroughly to ensure the marshmallows and cola are evenly distributed.
- Frosting: Spread while both cake and frosting are warm for a glossy, fudgy finish.
- Presentation: Serve in the baking dish for a rustic look or transfer to a platter for a polished presentation.
Presentation Tips
- Garnish with extra chopped pecans or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for a decorative touch.
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence.
- Present on a colorful platter to highlight the cake’s rich, chocolatey appearance.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Coco-Cola Cake is great for making ahead and stores well for enjoying over a few days.
- Storage:
- Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days due to the dairy-based frosting.
- Freeze the frosted cake (wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil) for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Make-Ahead:
- Bake the cake a day ahead and frost just before serving for the freshest texture.
- Prepare the frosting a few hours ahead and reheat gently to pourable consistency before spreading.
- Assemble the full cake a day in advance and store covered at room temperature.
Tip: Reheat slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to revive the fudgy texture if refrigerated.
Recipe Variations
Coco-Cola Cake is versatile and easy to customize. Here are some fun twists:
- Cherry Cola Cake: Use cherry-flavored cola and add ½ cup chopped maraschino cherries to the batter.
- Chocolate Chip Cola Cake: Mix ½ cup mini chocolate chips into the batter for extra chocolatey goodness.
- Nut-Free Cola Cake: Omit pecans from the frosting and add extra marshmallows for texture.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the cake.
- Mini Cola Cakes: Bake in muffin tins for individual cakes, reducing bake time to 20-25 minutes.
Conclusion: Savor the Fizzy Sweetness!
Coco-Cola Cake is the dessert that brings Southern charm to every bite. With its moist, cola-infused chocolate cake, gooey marshmallow texture, and rich, nutty frosting, it’s a perfect treat for potlucks, birthdays, or any festive occasion. Easy to make with a unique flavor payoff, this cake is sure to become a favorite. So, grab your cola, bake up this Southern classic, and enjoy a slice of fizzy delight. We’d love to hear how your cake turns out—share your creations in the comments or on social media!
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Coco-Cola Cake
Description
Ever craved a dessert that’s rich, indulgent, and infused with a unique twist? Coco-Cola Cake is a Southern favorite, featuring a moist, chocolatey cake made with cola and topped with a decadent cola-infused frosting studded with pecans.
Ingredients
For the Cola Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the cake’s structure.
- 2 cups white sugar: Sweetens the cake for a balanced flavor.
- 1 cup butter: Adds richness and moisture.
- 1 cup cola-flavored carbonated beverage: Provides moisture and a unique caramel-like flavor (e.g., Coca-Cola).
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder: Gives the cake its chocolatey depth.
- 1 ½ cups miniature marshmallows: Melt into the cake for a gooey texture.
- ½ cup buttermilk: Adds moisture and a slight tang.
- 2 large eggs: Provide structure and richness.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cake rise.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor.
For the Cola Frosting:
- ½ cup butter: Creates a rich, creamy base.
- 6 tablespoons cola-flavored carbonated beverage: Adds flavor and moisture to the frosting.
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder: Deepens the chocolate flavor.
- 4 cups confectioners’ sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
- 1 cup chopped pecans: Adds crunch and nutty flavor.
Why These Ingredients Matter
- Cola: Adds moisture and a subtle caramel flavor that makes the cake unique.
- Marshmallows: Melt during baking, creating a fudgy, moist texture.
- Cocoa Powder: Provides a rich chocolate flavor in both cake and frosting.
- Pecans: Add texture and a Southern touch to the frosting.
Substitutions and Variations
- Cola: Use any cola-flavored soda (e.g., Pepsi, RC Cola) or even root beer for a different twist.
- Butter: Replace with vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
- Buttermilk: Substitute with ½ cup milk mixed with ½ tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar, rested for 5 minutes.
- Pecans: Swap with walnuts, almonds, or omit for a nut-free version.
- Vegan Option: Use vegan butter, flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water per egg), and plant-based milk; ensure cola and marshmallows are vegan-friendly.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the cake.
- Spiced Cola Cake: Add ½ teaspoon cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm spice note.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Tip: Use parchment paper overhanging the sides for easy removal and clean-up.
Step 2: Make the Cola Cake Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups all-purpose flour and 2 cups white sugar.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup butter, 1 cup cola-flavored carbonated beverage, and 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder. Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally.
- Pour the hot cola mixture over the flour-sugar mixture and mix well until smooth.
- Stir in 1 ½ cups miniature marshmallows, ½ cup buttermilk, 2 large eggs, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until well combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading evenly.
Tip: Stir gently after adding marshmallows to keep some texture, as they’ll melt into the batter.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and prepare the frosting while the cake is still hot.
Tip: Check at 35 minutes to avoid overbaking; the cake should be moist but set.
Step 4: Make the Cola Frosting
- In a saucepan, combine ½ cup butter, 6 tablespoons cola-flavored carbonated beverage, and 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder. Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally.
- Pour the hot mixture over 4 cups confectioners’ sugar in a large bowl and mix until smooth.
- Stir in 1 cup chopped pecans.
Tip: Work quickly to mix the frosting, as it thickens as it cools.
Step 5: Frost the Cake
- Spread the warm cola frosting evenly over the hot cake, allowing it to soak in slightly for a fudgy texture.
Tip: Pour the frosting evenly and use an offset spatula to spread it smoothly over the cake.
Step 6: Serve
- Let the cake cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing into 18 pieces.
- Serve at room temperature or slightly warm for the best flavor.
Tip: Use a sharp knife for clean cuts through the nutty frosting.
FAQs
1. Why is my cake dense?
A dense cake may result from overmixing or old baking soda. Mix until just combined and ensure baking soda is fresh.
2. Can I use diet or zero-sugar cola?
Yes, but the flavor and texture may differ slightly due to artificial sweeteners. Regular cola is best for traditional taste.
3. Is this cake gluten-free?
Not as written, but use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free version.
4. Why is my frosting grainy?
Grainy frosting can result from undissolved confectioners’ sugar or cooling too quickly. Mix thoroughly and pour while warm.
5. Can I make this ahead?
Yes! Bake the cake a day ahead and frost before serving, or assemble and store covered for a day.
6. Can I omit the marshmallows?
Yes, but the cake will lose some gooey texture. Increase cola to 1 ¼ cups to compensate for moisture.
7. What are the health benefits of this cake?
Minimal, as it’s an indulgent treat. Pecans provide healthy fats, but enjoy in moderation due to sugar and butter content.