The double fudge Coca Cola cake is a decadent Southern dessert with a deep chocolate flavor. This double fudge Coca Cola cake recipe uses Coca Cola to create a moist, fudgy texture that’s irresistible. It’s perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a sweet indulgence at home.
Coca Cola adds a unique sweetness and subtle caramel note to the cake and frosting. This recipe is straightforward, using pantry staples for a rich, chocolatey treat. You’ll need an oven and a few basic tools to bring it to life.
From mixing the batter to applying the fudgy frosting, we’ll guide you through every step. You’ll learn how to make a double fudge Coca Cola cake recipe that’s sure to impress. Let’s dive into this indulgent dessert.
Why Make Double Fudge Coca Cola Cake?
This cake delivers an intense chocolate flavor with a moist, tender crumb. The Coca Cola enhances the richness, making it stand out from standard chocolate cakes. It’s a nostalgic treat that’s easy to recreate at home.
The double fudge frosting adds a creamy, decadent layer that sets as it cools. It’s perfect for chocolate lovers and special occasions. This recipe is simple yet yields professional results.
Baking this cake fills your kitchen with warm, comforting aromas. The double fudge Coca Cola cake recipe is budget-friendly and crowd-pleasing. It’s a dessert everyone will rave about.
What You Need for Double Fudge Coca Cola Cake
For the cake, gather 2 cups all-purpose flour, 2 cups sugar, 1 cup Coca Cola, 1 cup unsalted butter, ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 2 eggs, ½ cup buttermilk, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. You’ll also need 1.5 cups mini marshmallows.
For the frosting, you’ll need ½ cup butter, ⅓ cup Coca Cola, ¼ cup cocoa powder, 4 cups powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 cup chopped pecans (optional). A 9×13-inch baking pan is ideal.
A saucepan, mixing bowls, a whisk or electric mixer, and a spatula are essential. Parchment paper and a cooling rack help with easy removal and cooling. Gather all ingredients before starting for a smooth process.
Factors Affecting Baking Success
Oven temperature accuracy impacts the cake’s texture and rise. Use an oven thermometer to ensure a steady 350°F (175°C). Convection ovens may bake slightly faster than conventional ones.
The freshness of baking soda and buttermilk affects the cake’s rise. Check expiration dates to ensure proper leavening. Coca Cola should be fresh for maximum flavor and fizz.
Batter consistency is key for a moist cake. It should be smooth and slightly thin. Adjust with a tablespoon of flour or Coca Cola if needed for this double fudge Coca Cola cake recipe.
Double Fudge Coca Cola Cake Recipe
To make this double fudge Coca Cola cake recipe, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes and top with a rich Coca Cola fudge frosting. The batter takes 10 minutes to prepare, and the frosting takes 5 minutes. Follow these steps for a moist, fudgy cake.
Preparing the Batter
In a saucepan, combine 1 cup Coca Cola, 1 cup butter, and ¼ cup cocoa powder over medium heat. Stir until melted and smooth, then cool slightly. In a large bowl, mix 2 cups flour and 2 cups sugar.
Add 2 eggs, ½ cup buttermilk, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1 teaspoon vanilla to the cooled Coca Cola mixture. Stir into the flour mixture until smooth, then fold in 1.5 cups mini marshmallows. Pour into a greased and floured 9×13-inch pan.
Tap the pan gently to remove air bubbles. This ensures an even texture. The batter will be thin but should be smooth and well-combined.
Baking the Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. Place the pan on the middle rack for even baking. Bake for 30-35 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Check 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.
The cake can be frosted warm to allow the fudge to soak in slightly. Transfer to a cooling rack if desired, but frosting in the pan is common. Prepare the frosting while the cake cools slightly.
Making the Fudge Frosting
In a saucepan, combine ½ cup butter, ⅓ cup Coca Cola, and ¼ cup cocoa powder. Heat until melted and smooth, then remove from heat. Stir in 4 cups powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla until thick and glossy.
Pour the warm frosting over the slightly cooled cake, spreading evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle 1 cup chopped pecans on top if desired. The frosting sets as it cools, creating a fudgy layer.
If the frosting thickens too quickly, reheat gently to make it pourable. Let the cake cool completely before slicing. This ensures clean cuts and a set frosting.
Tips for Perfect Coca Cola Cake
Use fresh Coca Cola for the best flavor and texture. Measure flour by spooning and leveling to avoid a dense cake. Follow this double fudge Coca Cola cake recipe for consistent results.
Pour the frosting while warm for a smooth, glossy finish. If it sets too fast, thin with a teaspoon of milk. 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. Check doneness with a toothpick to avoid overbaking.
Frosting and Topping Variations
Customize your cake with different toppings. Below is a table with options to enhance this double fudge 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 a polished look. Prep times are minimal, keeping the recipe simple. Choose toppings that complement the fudgy 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 flavor and texture. Open a fresh can for maximum fizz and taste. This enhances the cake’s moistness.
Overmixing the batter can make the cake tough. Stir just until combined to keep it light and tender. Follow the double fudge Coca Cola cake recipe carefully.
Adjusting for Different Pan Sizes
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. Two 9-inch round pans work but bake in 25-30 minutes.
For smaller pans, reduce the batter slightly or expect a taller cake. Check for doneness earlier with round or smaller pans. 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 cost-effective, using simple ingredients like Coca Cola and flour. It recreates a Southern classic at a fraction of restaurant prices. You’ll impress guests with minimal effort.
You control the ingredients, avoiding artificial additives. The cake is versatile, perfect for birthdays, holidays, or casual desserts. It’s a nostalgic treat with a rich, fudgy twist.
Baking at home fills your kitchen with warm, chocolatey aromas. This double fudge Coca Cola cake recipe delivers consistent, moist results. It’s a dessert that everyone will love.
Creative Serving Ideas
Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamy contrast. Drizzle with caramel sauce for extra decadence. These enhance the cake’s rich, fudgy flavor.
Add fresh strawberries or raspberries for a tart balance. A sprinkle of sea salt on the frosting adds a modern touch. Keep toppings light to avoid overwhelming the cake.
Cut into squares for easy sharing at gatherings. 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 berries for a tart contrast.
- 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 before frosting. 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 double fudge Coca Cola cake recipe takes 30-35 minutes to bake at 350°F, creating a moist, chocolatey cake with fudgy frosting. Mix a simple batter with Coca Cola, bake, and top with a rich frosting. Use fresh ingredients and check for doneness to ensure perfection. With these steps, you’ll enjoy a decadent Southern dessert at home.
FAQ
Can I use a different soda for this recipe?
Coca Cola provides the authentic flavor, but Pepsi or Dr. Pepper can work. The taste may vary slightly. Stick to the double fudge Coca Cola cake recipe for best results.
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 as a direct substitute.
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.
How do I prevent the cake from sticking?
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 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.
Double Fudge Coca Cola Cake Recipe
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Medium Saucepan
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
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 regular, not diet or zero sugar
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Double Fudge Frosting:
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ¼ cup Coca-Cola
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 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 the cake releases easily.
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 smooth and 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 Double Fudge Frosting
- In a saucepan, melt butter with Coca-Cola and cocoa powder over medium heat. Remove from heat, whisk in powdered sugar, vanilla, and chocolate chips until smooth.
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.
