Description
This Southern Coca-Cola Cake is a moist and flavorful dessert that combines the classic taste of Coca-Cola with a rich buttery cake topped with a creamy, sweet frosting. Enhanced with buttermilk and a hint of vanilla, this cake is perfect for gatherings and special occasions, delivering a nostalgic Southern treat with a delightful texture and a touch of pecan crunch.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup Coca-Cola
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
Frosting
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup Coca-Cola
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent the cake from sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, and salt. Stir until well blended.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, Coca-Cola, eggs, vanilla extract, softened butter, and vegetable oil until fully combined.
- Combine Ingredients: Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.
- Pour Batter: Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking dish and use a spatula to smooth the top evenly.
- Bake: Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center of the cake comes out clean, indicating it is fully cooked.
- Prepare Frosting: While the cake is baking, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the Coca-Cola and heavy cream, stirring occasionally until the mixture starts to simmer.
- Add Sugar and Vanilla: Stir in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to cook the frosting for 2 to 3 minutes until it becomes smooth and slightly thickened.
- Frost the Cake: Once the cake is finished baking, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the hot frosting over the warm cake, allowing it to absorb the glaze.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped pecans over the frosted cake if desired. Let the cake cool slightly before slicing and serving for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute pecans with walnuts or omit nuts entirely for a nut-free version.
- Ensure not to overmix the batter to keep the cake fluffy and tender.
- The cake can be stored covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
- Bring ingredients like butter and eggs to room temperature before starting for better mixing and texture.
