Cracker Barrel’s Coca Cola cake is a Southern classic, known for its rich, fudgy texture. This Cracker Barrel Coca Cola cake recipe lets you recreate that iconic dessert at home. It’s a crowd-pleaser perfect for gatherings or cozy nights.
The secret lies in using Coca Cola in both the cake and frosting, adding a unique sweetness. This recipe is straightforward, using pantry staples for a moist, indulgent treat. You’ll need an oven and a few basic tools to get started.
From batter to frosting, we’ll guide you through every step. You’ll learn how to make a Cracker Barrel Coca Cola cake recipe that rivals the restaurant’s version. Let’s dive into this sweet, chocolatey adventure.
Why Make Cracker Barrel Coca Cola Cake?
This cake delivers a rich, moist texture with a hint of cola flavor. It’s a nostalgic dessert that’s easy to make at home. The recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike.
Coca Cola adds a subtle caramel note that enhances the chocolate. It’s a unique twist on traditional chocolate cake. The fudgy frosting seals in the decadence.
Baking this cake fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas. The Cracker Barrel Coca Cola cake recipe is ideal for potlucks or special occasions. It’s a dessert everyone will love.
What You Need for Coca Cola Cake
For the cake, gather 2 cups all-purpose flour, 2 cups sugar, and 1 cup Coca Cola. You’ll also need 1 cup unsalted butter, ¼ cup cocoa powder, 2 eggs, ½ cup buttermilk, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
For the frosting, you’ll need ½ cup butter, ¼ cup Coca Cola, 3 tablespoons cocoa powder, 4 cups powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla. A 9×13-inch baking pan works best.
A saucepan, mixing bowls, and a whisk or electric mixer are essential. Parchment paper and a cooling rack help with easy removal and cooling. Optional pecans add crunch to the frosting.
Factors Affecting Baking Success
The oven’s temperature accuracy impacts baking time. An oven thermometer ensures a consistent 350°F (175°C). Convection ovens may bake slightly faster than conventional ones.
The batter’s consistency affects the cake’s texture. It should be smooth but not too thin. Adjust with a tablespoon of flour or Coca Cola if needed.
Ingredient freshness matters, especially for baking soda and buttermilk. Check expiration dates to ensure a good rise. Follow the Cracker Barrel Coca Cola cake recipe for best results.
Cracker Barrel Coca Cola Cake Recipe
To make this Cracker Barrel Coca Cola cake recipe, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes and top with a fudgy Coca Cola frosting. The batter takes 10 minutes to prepare, and the frosting takes 5 minutes. Follow these steps for a rich, moist cake.
Preparing the Batter
In a saucepan, combine 1 cup Coca Cola, 1 cup butter, and ¼ cup cocoa powder. Heat over medium until melted and smooth, then cool slightly. Stir in 2 cups sugar and 2 cups flour in a large bowl.
Add 2 eggs, ½ cup buttermilk, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1 teaspoon vanilla to the cooled mixture. Whisk until smooth, ensuring no lumps remain. The batter will be thin but smooth.
Pour the batter into a greased and floured 9×13-inch baking pan. Tap the pan gently to remove air bubbles. This ensures an even texture when baked.
Baking the Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. Place the pan on the middle rack for even heat. Bake for 30-35 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Check the cake at 30 minutes to avoid overbaking. If the edges brown too quickly, cover with foil. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before frosting.
Transfer to a cooling rack if desired, but frosting it in the pan is fine. This keeps the cake moist. Prepare the frosting while the cake cools slightly.
Making the Frosting
In a saucepan, combine ½ cup butter, ¼ cup Coca Cola, and 3 tablespoons cocoa powder. Heat until melted and smooth, then remove from heat. Stir in 4 cups powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla until thick.
Pour the warm frosting over the slightly cooled cake, spreading evenly. Add ½ cup chopped pecans for crunch if desired. The frosting sets as it cools, creating a fudgy layer.
Let the cake cool completely before slicing. This ensures clean cuts and a set frosting. Serve at room temperature for the best flavor.
Tips for Perfect Coca Cola Cake
Use room-temperature eggs and buttermilk for a smooth batter. Measure flour accurately by spooning and leveling to avoid a dense cake. Follow the Cracker Barrel Coca Cola cake recipe for consistent results.
Pour the frosting while warm to spread easily. If it thickens, reheat gently before applying. Let the cake cool fully before serving to set the frosting.
Grease and flour the pan well to prevent sticking. A parchment lining adds extra insurance for easy removal. Practice ensures a perfect texture every time.
Frosting and Topping Variations
The frosting can be customized for extra flair. Below is a table with options to enhance this Cracker Barrel Coca Cola cake recipe.
| Topping Type | Preparation | Prep Time |
|---|---|---|
| Chopped Pecans | Toast and sprinkle | 5 minutes |
| Chocolate Chips | Melt and drizzle | 5 minutes |
| Whipped Cream | Whip with sugar | 5 minutes |
Add toppings after the frosting sets for the best presentation. Prep times are quick, keeping the recipe simple. Choose toppings that complement the chocolatey flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overbaking can dry out the cake. Check at 30 minutes with a toothpick for doneness. Cover with foil if the top browns too quickly.
Using flat Coca Cola reduces the cake’s unique flavor. Open a fresh can for maximum fizz and taste. This enhances the batter’s texture.
Overmixing the batter can make the cake dense. Stir just until combined for a light, moist result. Follow the Cracker Barrel Coca Cola cake recipe carefully.
Adjusting for Different Pans
A 9×13-inch pan is standard for this recipe. An 8×8-inch pan creates a thicker cake, needing 35-40 minutes to bake. A round 9-inch pan works but may need 2-3 minutes less.
For smaller pans, reduce the batter slightly or expect a taller cake. Check for doneness earlier to avoid overbaking. Adjust frosting to cover the surface evenly.
Grease and flour any pan well, or line with parchment. This ensures easy removal and clean slices. The recipe adapts to various pan sizes with minor tweaks.
Benefits of Homemade Coca Cola Cake
This recipe is budget-friendly, using simple ingredients like flour and Coca Cola. It recreates a restaurant favorite at a fraction of the cost. You’ll impress guests with minimal effort.
You control the ingredients, avoiding artificial additives. The cake is versatile, perfect for birthdays or casual desserts. It’s a nostalgic treat with a modern twist.
Baking at home fills your kitchen with comforting aromas. This Cracker Barrel Coca Cola cake recipe delivers consistent, moist results. It’s a dessert everyone will rave about.
Creative Serving Ideas
Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic pairing. Drizzle with extra chocolate or caramel sauce for decadence. These enhance the cake’s rich flavor.
Add fresh berries like raspberries for a tart contrast. A sprinkle of sea salt on the frosting adds a trendy twist. Keep toppings light to balance the sweetness.
Cut into squares for easy sharing at potlucks. Pair with coffee or milk for a cozy dessert. These ideas make your cake a standout treat.
- Ice Cream Pairing: Serve with vanilla ice cream for creaminess.
- Berry Topping: Add fresh raspberries for a tart balance.
- Salted Caramel: Drizzle caramel with a pinch of sea salt.
Storing and Reheating Your Cake
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Refrigerate for up to 5 days to maintain freshness. Cover tightly to prevent drying out.
Freeze unfrosted cake for up to 3 months, wrapped in plastic and foil. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then frost before serving. Frosted cake can freeze for 1 month.
Reheat slices in the oven at 300°F (149°C) for 5-7 minutes. Microwaving can make it soggy, so avoid it. Serve at room temperature for the best texture.
Summary
This Cracker Barrel Coca Cola cake recipe takes 30-35 minutes to bake at 350°F, creating a moist, fudgy cake with a rich frosting. Mix a simple batter, bake, and top with a warm Coca Cola frosting. Use fresh ingredients and check for doneness to ensure perfection. With these steps, you’ll enjoy a Southern classic at home.
FAQ
Can I use a different soda for this recipe?
Coca Cola gives the authentic Cracker Barrel flavor, but Dr. Pepper or Pepsi can work. The taste may vary slightly. Stick to the Cracker Barrel Coca Cola cake recipe for best results.
How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?
Grease and flour the pan thoroughly or line with parchment paper. Run a knife around the edges after cooling for 10 minutes. This ensures easy removal.
Can I make the cake ahead of time?
Yes, bake the cake and store unfrosted for up to 2 days. Frost before serving for a fresh texture. Refrigerate if storing longer than 2 days.
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
Mix ½ cup milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar and let sit for 5 minutes. This mimics buttermilk’s tanginess. Use it as a direct substitute.
Can I freeze the frosted cake?
Yes, freeze for up to 1 month in an airtight container. Wrap tightly to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Cracker Barrel Coca Cola Cake Recipe
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Medium Saucepan
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup Coca-Cola not diet or zero sugar
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Frosting:
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ¼ cup Coca-Cola
- 3 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans optional
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or non-stick spray. This ensures easy removal of the cake.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside. These dry ingredients form the cake’s base.
Step 3: Heat Wet Ingredients
- In a saucepan, combine butter, Coca-Cola, and cocoa powder over medium heat. Stir until the butter melts and the mixture is smooth. Let it cool slightly.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Pour the warm Coca-Cola mixture into the dry ingredients. Add buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla, stirring until just combined. The batter will be slightly thin.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool slightly in the pan.
Step 6: Make the Frosting
- In a saucepan, combine butter, Coca-Cola, and cocoa powder over medium heat. Stir until smooth, then remove from heat and whisk in powdered sugar and vanilla.
Step 7: Frost the Cake
- Pour the warm frosting over the slightly cooled cake, spreading evenly. Sprinkle with chopped pecans if desired. Let the frosting set for about 20 minutes.
Step 8: Serve the Cake
- Slice the cake into squares and serve warm or at room temperature. It’s delicious on its own or with a scoop of ice cream. Store leftovers covered at room temperature.
