If you’re searching for a show-stopping dessert that captures the heart and soul of Southern baking, look no further than this Southern Coca-Cola Cake. Imagine a moist, fudgy chocolate cake infused with the unmistakable caramel notes of good old Coca-Cola, all topped with a glossy, pecan-studded frosting that soaks right into the cake while it’s still warm. It’s a legendary treat that brings big flavor and a generous dose of nostalgia to any gathering, perfect for family reunions, potlucks, or just because you’re in the mood for something truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about Southern Coca-Cola Cake is how it transforms simple pantry staples into a decadent masterpiece. Each ingredient has its own role to play, whether it’s adding moisture, richness, or that signature Southern flair. Here’s what you’ll need:
- All-purpose flour: The foundation that provides structure and a tender crumb.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps give it that irresistible melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness and depth, both in the cake and the luscious frosting.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: Delivers a robust chocolate flavor that pairs beautifully with the cola.
- Coca-Cola (not diet): The star ingredient! It adds caramel undertones and an unmistakable Southern twist.
- Buttermilk: Brings a gentle tang, ensuring a moist crumb and balancing the sweetness.
- Large eggs: Essential for binding everything together and adding a bit of lift.
- Baking soda: Helps the cake rise and gives it a light, airy texture.
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with warmth and sweetness.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the other flavors.
- Powdered sugar: Creates a silky-smooth, pourable frosting.
- Chopped pecans (optional): For crunch and that classic Southern touch in the frosting.
How to Make Southern Coca-Cola Cake
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish—this is key for ensuring your Southern Coca-Cola Cake releases easily and bakes up with perfectly crisp edges. Take a moment to gather all your ingredients, so everything is ready to go once you start mixing.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and granulated sugar. This not only evenly distributes the sugar but also aerates the flour, setting the stage for a light and tender cake.
Step 3: Make the Chocolate-Cola Mixture
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the unsalted butter, unsweetened cocoa powder, and Coca-Cola. Bring this mixture to a boil, stirring constantly until everything is melted and smooth. You’ll notice a wonderful aroma—this is where the cake gets its first boost of flavor and a hint of that signature fudgy texture.
Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients and Combine
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, baking soda, vanilla extract, and salt. Pour this mixture along with the hot chocolate-cola blend into your flour and sugar. Stir until you have a smooth, glossy batter with no lumps.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The kitchen will smell absolutely divine—chocolaty, buttery, and just a little bit mysterious thanks to the Coca-Cola.
Step 6: Prepare the Frosting
While the cake is in the oven, get started on the frosting. In a saucepan, combine unsalted butter, cocoa powder, and Coca-Cola. Bring to a gentle boil, then remove from heat and whisk in the vanilla extract and powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and pourable. If you love a little crunch, stir in the chopped pecans now.
Step 7: Frost While Hot
As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, pour the warm frosting evenly over the hot cake. This step is crucial—the heat helps the frosting seep into the cake, creating that iconic, gooey top layer. Let the cake cool at room temperature before slicing and serving.
How to Serve Southern Coca-Cola Cake
Garnishes
For a classic presentation, a generous sprinkle of extra chopped pecans on top of the warm frosting adds crunch and visual appeal. If you want to go the extra mile, a dusting of powdered sugar or a few fresh berries make lovely finishing touches that balance the cake’s richness and add a pop of color.
Side Dishes
Southern Coca-Cola Cake is an absolute treat on its own, but it’s pure magic alongside a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. For potlucks or family gatherings, pair it with fresh seasonal fruit or a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream—the perfect contrast to the cake’s deep chocolatey flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling playful, try cutting the cake into small squares and serving as bite-sized treats at a dessert buffet. Individual ramekins transform the cake into a personal indulgence, or serve warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce for a decadent twist. For celebrations, stack pieces with layers of frosting in between to create a Southern Coca-Cola Cake tower!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cover any leftover cake tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen as it sits, and the cake stays wonderfully moist—if it lasts that long!
Freezing
To freeze, slice the cake into individual portions and wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. The Southern Coca-Cola Cake can be frozen for up to two months. For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating
If you like your cake a little warm, simply pop a slice in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. This softens the frosting and brings back that fresh-from-the-oven texture—perfect with a scoop of cold ice cream on the side.
FAQs
Can I use Diet Coke instead of regular Coca-Cola?
For the best flavor and texture, stick with classic Coca-Cola. Diet versions don’t offer the same caramel notes or sweetness, which are essential for the authentic Southern Coca-Cola Cake experience.
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
No buttermilk? No problem! You can make a quick substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1/2 cup of milk. Let it sit for five minutes before using—this will provide the same tangy richness.
Can I skip the pecans in the frosting?
Absolutely! While pecans add a traditional Southern crunch, you can leave them out if you prefer a smooth frosting or have nut allergies. The cake will still be incredibly delicious.
Is this cake suitable for making ahead for parties?
Yes, Southern Coca-Cola Cake is a fantastic make-ahead dessert. It actually tastes even better after a day or two as the flavors meld and the frosting soaks into the cake, making it perfect for parties and gatherings.
How do I keep the cake from sticking to the pan?
Greasing and flouring your baking dish thoroughly is key. For extra insurance, you can also line the bottom of your pan with parchment paper before pouring in the batter—just lift and slice when ready to serve!
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to fall in love with a true Southern classic, give this Southern Coca-Cola Cake a try. Every bite is a sweet, nostalgic celebration—rich, moist, and absolutely unforgettable. Gather your friends and family, bake a pan, and watch it disappear in record time!
Print
Southern Coca-Cola Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Southern Coca-Cola Cake is a classic and indulgent dessert known for its moist, fudgy texture and rich chocolate flavor enhanced with the unique sweetness of Coca-Cola. This vintage cake features a luscious cocoa-infused batter and a creamy chocolate frosting, making it a beloved treat that pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup Coca-Cola (not diet)
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Frosting Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 6 tablespoons Coca-Cola
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 ¾ cups powdered sugar
- 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and granulated sugar until evenly combined.
- Cook Cocoa Mixture: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the unsalted butter, unsweetened cocoa powder, and Coca-Cola. Bring the mixture to a boil while stirring continuously until smooth and fully blended.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the hot cocoa mixture over the flour and sugar mixture. Stir well to fully incorporate.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, baking soda, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and well combined.
- Incorporate Wet Ingredients into Batter: Add the buttermilk mixture to the batter, stirring gently but thoroughly until the batter is smooth and uniform.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.
- Make the Frosting: While the cake bakes, combine the unsalted butter, cocoa powder, and Coca-Cola in a saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil, then remove from heat. Whisk in vanilla extract and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Stir in chopped pecans if desired.
- Frost the Cake: As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, pour the warm frosting evenly over the top, allowing it to soak in.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool at room temperature before slicing and serving. Enjoy with optional vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
Notes
- This cake has a rich, moist, and fudgy texture that is deeply chocolatey.
- For added texture and flavor, toast the pecans before adding them to the frosting.
- Pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
- Be sure to use regular Coca-Cola, not diet, to maintain the proper sweetness and texture.
- Make sure to pour frosting over the cake while it is still hot for perfect absorption.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking, Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 470
- Sugar: 48 g
- Sodium: 280 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 66 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
