Indulge in Sweet Southern Delight: Coca Cola Cake
Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with a decadent dessert straight from the heart of the South – Coca Cola Cake! This iconic Southern treat combines the rich flavors of chocolate, butter, and Coca Cola to create a moist and irresistible cake that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply craving a taste of Southern comfort, this recipe is sure to impress. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into the delightful world of Coca Cola Cake!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup Coca Cola
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows
For the Coca Cola Frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup Coca Cola
- 4 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan, ensuring it’s well-coated to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- Prepare the Cocoa 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. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, mix together the buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Gradually pour in the warm cocoa mixture, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from scrambling.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense cake.
- Fold in Marshmallows:
- Gently fold the mini marshmallows into the batter until evenly distributed. The marshmallows will melt slightly during baking, adding pockets of gooey sweetness to the cake.
- Bake the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Prepare the Coca Cola Frosting:
- While the cake is baking, prepare the frosting. In a saucepan, combine the butter, cocoa powder, and Coca Cola over medium heat. Stir until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Add Confectioners’ Sugar:
- Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar to the cocoa mixture, stirring until smooth and creamy. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Frost the Cake:
- Once the cake has cooled slightly, pour the warm frosting over the top, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. If desired, sprinkle chopped pecans over the frosting for added flavor and crunch.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing and serving. Serve each slice with a cold glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate indulgence!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free all-purpose flour for the regular flour to make this cake suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Enhance the Flavor: Add a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the batter for an extra layer of flavor.
- Nut-Free Option: Omit the chopped pecans from the frosting if you or your guests have nut allergies.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Substitute almond flour or coconut flour for the all-purpose flour to reduce the carb content of the cake.
- Use a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener in place of granulated sugar.
Low-Carb Version:
- Reduce the amount of sugar in both the cake and frosting recipes, or use a sugar-free sweetener to keep the carb count low.
- Serve the cake in smaller portions to limit carb intake while still enjoying this delicious treat.
In conclusion, Southern Coca Cola Cake is a delightful dessert that embodies the warmth and hospitality of Southern cooking. With its rich chocolate flavor, moist texture, and irresistible Coca Cola frosting, this cake is sure to become a family favorite for years to come. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a sweet indulgence, this classic Southern treat is guaranteed to satisfy your dessert cravings. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to bake up a taste of Southern tradition!
