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Southern Coca Cola Cake Recipe

5 from 69 reviews

This Southern Coca Cola Cake is a moist, rich chocolate cake that uses Coca Cola to enhance the chocolate flavor and create a unique, tender crumb. With a luscious cocoa-infused frosting and optional pecans for added texture, this classic Southern dessert combines nostalgic flavors with simple ingredients for an irresistible treat perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Cake Ingredients

  • 1 3/4 cups sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • 1 cup butter or margarine (2 sticks or 16 tablespoons)
  • 1 cup Coca Cola (regular)
  • 3 tablespoons 100% pure cocoa
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 1/2 cups miniature marshmallows
  • 2 eggs (beaten)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Frosting Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup butter or margarine (1 stick or 8 tablespoons)
  • 3 tablespoons 100% pure cocoa
  • 6 tablespoons Coca Cola
  • 1 pound package powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup pecans or nuts of your choice (optional)

Instructions

  1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine sugar, all-purpose flour, and ground cinnamon. Whisk well to evenly distribute all dry ingredients.
  2. Prepare Cocoa Mixture: In a pot over the stove, combine 1 cup of butter, 1 cup of Coca Cola, and 3 tablespoons of cocoa powder. Bring this mixture to a boil, stirring frequently to prevent burning and to fully dissolve the cocoa.
  3. Combine Wet and Dry: Remove the hot cocoa mixture from the heat and pour it over the flour and sugar mixture. Stir with a spoon until well incorporated.
  4. Add Buttermilk Mixture, Marshmallows, Eggs, and Vanilla: In a separate small bowl, mix buttermilk with baking soda until combined. Pour this into the cake mixture, then add miniature marshmallows. Stir to distribute. Add beaten eggs and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly until combined. The marshmallows will not melt at this point.
  5. Bake the Cake: Grease a 9 x 13 inch baking pan and pour the batter evenly into it. Place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Use a toothpick or cake tester to check doneness; it should come out clean when the cake is ready.
  6. Prepare the Frosting: While the cake bakes, melt 1/2 cup butter, 3 tablespoons cocoa powder, and 6 tablespoons Coca Cola together in a pot on the stove. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and gradually add powdered sugar until the frosting reaches a smooth and spreadable consistency.
  7. Frost the Cake: When the cake is done, while still warm, spread the frosting evenly over the top. Optionally, stir chopped pecans into the frosting before spreading or sprinkle them on top for added texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Using regular Coca Cola is recommended for the best flavor; other varieties may alter the taste and texture.
  • Ground cinnamon is optional but enhances the chocolate flavor.
  • Do not worry if the marshmallows do not melt into the batter; they add a unique texture to the cake.
  • The frosting is best spread on a warm cake to ensure it seeps into the surface for added moistness.
  • You can substitute nuts with your preferred variety or omit them entirely.
  • Ensure the cake is properly cooled before cutting to avoid crumbling.

Keywords: Southern Coca Cola Cake, chocolate cake, cola cake, Southern dessert, moist chocolate cake, Coca Cola dessert