Coca-Cola Cake takes me straight back to childhood. It’s the kind of dessert that feels like a warm hug—rich, chocolatey, and so incredibly soft that it almost melts in your mouth.
If you’ve never had it before, trust me, you’re in for a treat. The secret? A can of Coca-Cola mixed right into the batter.
Sounds unusual, but it works like magic, giving the cake a deep flavor and unbelievably moist texture.
This cake has been a favorite in my family for as long as I can remember. My grandmother used to make it for birthdays, holidays, or just because she felt like baking something sweet.
She’d pour the warm, fudgy frosting over the cake while it was still hot, letting it seep into every bite.
I’d always sneak a spoonful of frosting before it made it to the cake—because honestly, who could resist?
It’s one of those recipes that doesn’t take much effort but tastes like you spent all day in the kitchen. Simple ingredients, easy steps, and a whole lot of flavor. Let me show you how to make it the way I grew up eating it.
Coca Cola Chocolate Cake Recipe
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
- ½ cup (45g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (100g) brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
- ½ cup (120ml) buttermilk, room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup (240ml) Coca-Cola, room temperature
For the Chocolate Filling & Frosting:
- 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups (250g) powdered sugar
- ½ cup (45g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 tbsp (45ml) Coca-Cola
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 8-inch (20cm) round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently to combine.
- Pour in the Coca-Cola and whisk lightly. The batter will be thin but smooth.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
- Sift in the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing on low speed.
- Add the Coca-Cola and vanilla extract, then beat until smooth and fluffy.
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top.
- Place the second cake layer over it and frost the top evenly.
- Let the cake rest for 20 minutes before slicing to allow the flavors to settle.
What Does Coca-Cola Do In A Cake?
Coca-Cola isn’t just for drinking—it actually does a lot for a cake. Here’s how it works:
- Adds Moisture: The carbonation and sugar in Coke help create a soft, moist texture.
- Enhances Flavor: It brings a subtle caramel-like sweetness that deepens the chocolate flavor.
- Improves Texture: The acidity in Coke works with baking soda to make the cake light and fluffy.
- Creates a Tender Crumb: The extra sugar and liquid prevent the cake from being dry or crumbly.
Can I Use Diet Coke Or Other Sodas Instead Of Coca-Cola In The Cake?
You can experiment with other sodas, but the results will be different. Here’s what happens when you swap Coca-Cola for something else:
- Diet Coke: Not recommended. It lacks sugar, which affects texture and taste. The cake may turn out dry or slightly bitter.
- Other Colas: You can use any regular cola, but the flavor might not be as deep as Coca-Cola.
- Root Beer: Adds a hint of vanilla and spice, giving the cake a slightly different but delicious twist.
- Dr. Pepper: Works well and adds a unique blend of flavors.
- Orange Soda: Can be used, but it changes the taste completely, making it more citrusy.
Can I Make Coca-Cola Cake Without Eggs?
Yes, you can make Coca-Cola Cake without eggs, and it will still turn out soft and delicious. Since the soda adds moisture and lift, it helps replace some of the structure that eggs provide. Here are a few common egg substitutes that work well in this cake:
- Yogurt: Adds moisture and helps bind the ingredients together.
- Buttermilk: Creates a tender texture while enhancing the flavor.
- Applesauce: Keeps the cake soft and slightly sweet.
- Mashed bananas: A natural binder that also adds a hint of sweetness.
- Vinegar and baking soda: Reacts to create air pockets, making the cake fluffy.
How Do You Keep Coca-Cola Cake Moist?
Coca-Cola Cake is naturally soft, but a few simple steps can help keep it moist for longer:
- Don’t overbake: Take the cake out of the oven as soon as a toothpick comes out with a few crumbs. Overbaking dries it out.
- Use the right flour: All-purpose flour works best. Using too much can make the cake dense, so measure correctly.
- Pour the frosting while the cake is warm: This helps the frosting soak into the cake, making it extra soft.
- Store it properly: Keep the cake covered at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate it for a longer shelf life.
- Add a little extra Coca-Cola: If the batter seems too thick, a splash of Coca-Cola can help keep the cake moist.
- Wrap leftovers well: Use plastic wrap or an airtight container to prevent the cake from drying out.
Can I Use Coca-Cola Cake Batter To Make Cupcakes?
Yes, you can! Coca-Cola Cake batter works great for cupcakes, but there are a few things to keep in mind to get the best results.
- Adjust the Baking Time: Since cupcakes are smaller than a cake, they bake faster. Check them around 15-18 minutes instead of the usual cake time.
- Fill the Liners Properly: Fill each cupcake liner about 2/3 full to leave room for rising.
- Use a Toothpick to Check Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, they’re ready.
- Let Them Cool Before Frosting: The frosting is usually poured onto Coca-Cola Cake while it’s warm, but for cupcakes, let them cool completely before adding it.
- Adjust the Frosting Consistency: Since cupcakes aren’t flat like a cake, make the frosting slightly thicker so it stays on top instead of running off.
How Long Does Coca-Cola Cake Last, And How Should I Store It?
Coca-Cola Cake stays fresh for several days if stored properly. The way you store it depends on how long you plan to keep it.
- At Room Temperature: If you’ll eat it within 2 days, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps it soft and moist.
- In the Refrigerator: If you need to store it for up to a week, refrigerate it in a sealed container. Let it come to room temperature before serving so it’s not too firm.
- Cover It Well: Whether storing at room temperature or in the fridge, cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or a lid to prevent it from drying out.
Can I Freeze Coca-Cola Cake?
Yes, Coca-Cola Cake freezes well, but you need to follow a few steps to keep it fresh.
- Cool the Cake Completely: Freezing a warm cake creates excess moisture and makes it soggy.
- Wrap It Tightly: Use plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Freeze Without Frosting for Best Results: If possible, freeze the cake without frosting and add it after thawing.
- Use an Airtight Container: If freezing frosted cake, place it in a sturdy container to protect the frosting.
- Thaw Properly: Let it thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours before serving.
Can I Make Coca-Cola Cake Without Cocoa Powder?
Yes, but the flavor will change. Coca-Cola Cake is known for its chocolatey taste, so if you skip cocoa powder, you’ll need a different way to add depth to the cake. Here are some options:
- Use Carob Powder: A natural cocoa substitute with a mild, slightly sweet taste.
- Try a Spiced Version: Add cinnamon and nutmeg for a warm, rich flavor.
- Make a Vanilla Coca-Cola Cake: Skip the cocoa and add extra vanilla extract for a different twist.
- Use Melted Chocolate Instead: If you can’t use cocoa powder but still want a chocolatey taste, melted chocolate is a great option.
Read More:
Vanilla Cake With Buttercream Frosting
Chocolate Cake With Chocolate Ganache