Double Chocolate Coca Cola Cake

Introduction

Double Chocolate Coca Cola Cake is a legendary Southern dessert known for its incredibly moist texture, deep chocolate flavor, and rich, glossy chocolate frosting poured on while the cake is still warm. The Coca Cola might sound unusual, but it’s the secret ingredient that makes this cake unbelievably soft, tender, and full of flavor without tasting like soda.

This cake has been passed down through generations and is often served at potlucks, family gatherings, church dinners, and holidays. The carbonation in the Coca Cola helps create a lighter crumb, while the sweetness enhances the cocoa, giving the cake a bold, chocolate-forward taste. Adding chocolate both in the batter and the frosting turns this into a true double chocolate experience.

One of the best things about this cake is how easy it is to make. It’s typically baked as a sheet cake, mixed in one bowl, and topped with a warm pour-over frosting that sets into a fudgy layer. No layers, no fancy decorating—just pure chocolate comfort in every bite.

Ingredients
For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour

2 cups granulated sugar

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon baking soda

1 cup unsalted butter

¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1 cup Coca Cola (not diet)

½ cup buttermilk

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Frosting

½ cup unsalted butter

¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

6 tablespoons Coca Cola

3 ½ cups powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan (or jelly roll pan for thinner cake) and set aside.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, and baking soda until well combined.

Step 3: Heat the Coca Cola Mixture

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter, cocoa powder, and Coca Cola. Stir continuously until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth. Bring just to a gentle boil, then remove from heat.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the hot cocoa-Cola mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until smooth. Add the buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until the batter is fully combined and glossy.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Variation

Cherry Chocolate Coke Cake: Add maraschino cherries to the batter.

Nutty Version: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the frosting.

Spicy Chocolate Cake: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne.

Mini Cakes: Bake in cupcake pans for individual servings.

Extra Fudgy Cake: Reduce baking time slightly for a gooier center.

Cooking Note

The frosting must be poured over the cake while both the cake and frosting are hot. This allows the frosting to seep slightly into the cake, creating the signature fudgy top layer that Coca Cola cakes are famous for.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Double Chocolate Coca Cola Cake slightly warm or at room temperature. It pairs perfectly with a glass of cold milk, coffee, or vanilla ice cream. This cake is ideal for casual gatherings, BBQs, birthdays, and holidays.

Tips

Always use regular Coca Cola, not diet.

Do not overbake—the cake should stay moist.

Sift powdered sugar for a smooth frosting.

Pour frosting immediately after baking.

Store covered to keep the cake soft.

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cooking Time

35 minutes

Total Time

50 minutes

Nutritional Information (Approximate per slice)

Calories: 430

Protein: 4 g

Sodium: 280 mg

FAQs

Does the cake taste like Coca Cola?
No, the soda enhances the chocolate flavor without a noticeable cola taste.

Can I use Pepsi instead?
Yes, but Coca Cola provides the most classic flavor.

Can this cake be made ahead of time?
Yes, it actually tastes better the next day.

Can I freeze Coca Cola cake?
Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

Why is my cake dry?
Overbaking is the most common cause—check early.

Conclusion

Double Chocolate Coca Cola Cake is a true Southern classic that proves simple ingredients can create unforgettable desserts. With its ultra-moist crumb, deep chocolate flavor, and fudgy frosting, this cake is pure comfort food at its best. Easy to make, impossible to resist, and perfect for feeding a crowd, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. One bite, and you’ll understand why this cake has stood the test of time 🍫🥤🍰

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