If you’ve been hunting for a nostalgic dessert that’s equal parts fudgy, fluffy, and impossibly moist, this original coca-cola cake recipe delivers in a big way. Born from vintage Southern church cookbooks and handed down through potluck lore, the batter gets a lift from cola’s carbonation and a deep cocoa richness from a warm cola-cocoa syrup.
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Why You’ll Love This Original Coca-Cola Cake
The result is a tender crumb with a glossy, crinkly frosting that melts right into the cake while it’s warm. It’s the kind of bake that earns recipe-card status, the one you bring to birthdays and barbecues because everyone asks for seconds. This original coca-cola cake recipe also wins on practicality: it’s made in a saucepan and a single mixing bowl, no electric mixer required, and it uses pantry staples you probably already have. The cooked frosting is quick, forgiving, and sets to a soft fudge that slices cleanly while staying lusciously creamy.
Whether you’re recreating a childhood favorite or discovering it for the first time, this original coca-cola cake recipe is proof that simple ingredients can create a showstopping dessert. From weeknight treats to holiday spreads, it’s an easy make-ahead classic that travels well, feeds a crowd, and pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream. One bite and you’ll see why this original coca-cola cake recipe has been beloved for generations.
Quick 100-Word Introduction
Craving a crowd-pleasing classic? This original coca-cola cake recipe bakes up ultra moist with a tender chocolate crumb and a signature warm-poured frosting that soaks into every bite. Cola adds lift and subtle caramel notes, while cocoa brings deep chocolate flavor. The batter comes together fast in one bowl, and the stovetop frosting sets to a soft, glossy finish. Perfect for potlucks, birthdays, and casual Sunday dinners, this original coca-cola cake recipe is budget-friendly, travel-ready, and absolutely irresistible with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Storage Options
Keep the cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate tightly covered for 4–5 days; bring slices to room temperature before serving for the best texture. To freeze, wrap unfrosted or fully cooled frosted squares individually and store up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then let sit at room temperature 30 minutes before enjoying. This flexibility is another reason the original coca-cola cake recipe is perfect for make-ahead entertaining.
original coca-cola cake recipe
Equipment
- 9×13-inch metal baking pan
- Medium saucepan
- Large mixing bowl and whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wire rack
Ingredients
- Cake
- 2 cups 240 g all-purpose flour
- 2 cups 400 g granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup 25 g unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp fine salt
- 1 cup 240 ml Coca-Cola (not diet), room temperature
- 1/2 cup 115 g unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup 120 ml neutral oil
- 1/2 cup 120 ml buttermilk, room temperature
- 2 large eggs room temperature
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- Warm Poured Frosting
- 1/2 cup 115 g unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup 30 g unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup 120 ml Coca-Cola
- 3 cups 360 g powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- Optional: 1 cup 120 g chopped pecans or walnuts
- Pinch of fine salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a 9×13-inch metal pan, or line with parchment with overhang.
- In a large bowl, whisk flour, sugar, cocoa, baking soda, and salt until combined.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine cola, butter, and oil. Bring just to a gentle simmer, stirring until butter melts.
- Pour the hot cola mixture over the dry ingredients. Whisk until smooth and glossy.
- Add buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla. Whisk until just combined and no flour streaks remain.
- Scrape batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Near the end of baking, make the frosting: In a saucepan, melt butter with cocoa and cola over medium heat until just bubbling. Remove from heat; whisk in powdered sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt until silky. Stir in nuts if using.
- While the cake is hot on a wire rack, poke a few holes with a skewer. Immediately pour the warm frosting evenly over the surface so it seeps in and sets with a glossy finish.
- Cool at least 45 minutes before slicing. Serve slightly warm or at room temperature.
Notes
Tips for Success
- Measure accurately: Spoon and level flour to avoid a dense crumb.
- Don’t overmix: Once the eggs go in, mix just until combined to keep the crumb tender.
- Time the frosting: Pour it while both cake and frosting are warm so it bonds into a fudgy layer.
- Check doneness early: Start checking at 28 minutes; ovens vary and you want moist crumbs, not a dry tester.
- Flavor boost: A pinch of espresso powder in the batter deepens chocolate without tasting like coffee.
Additional Tips and Variations
- Mini cakes: Bake in two 8-inch pans for 22–26 minutes; frost warm layers for a double-decker original coca-cola cake recipe.
- Marshmallow frosting twist: Fold 2 cups mini marshmallows into the warm frosting for a classic diner-style finish.
- Cherry cola: Swap 1/4 cup cola for 1/4 cup maraschino cherry syrup and top with halved cherries.
- Dairy-free: Use plant milk + 1 tsp lemon juice for “buttermilk,” and a dairy-free butter substitute.
- Sheet-pan crowd size: Double the recipe for an 18×13 sheet pan; bake 22–26 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this ahead? Yes. This original coca-cola cake recipe tastes even better the next day as the frosting settles into the crumb.
What can I use instead of buttermilk? Mix 1/2 cup milk with 1/2 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar; rest 5 minutes.
Can I use Dutch-process cocoa? Yes. The recipe relies on baking soda and acid from buttermilk; either natural or Dutch works.
Why not diet cola? Sweeteners and acids differ and can affect rise and flavor; use regular cola for consistent results.
How do I keep the cake moist? Avoid overbaking, measure flour correctly, and pour frosting while warm.
Conclusion
From its tender crumb to its glossy poured icing, this original coca-cola cake recipe is a timeless, low-effort dessert that never fails to impress. Keep it in your rotation for birthdays, potlucks, and cozy weekends—the kind of cake that disappears one square at a time.