Dessert

Cake Ingredients

• 1 cup Coca-Cola
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• ½ cup (1 stick) butter
• ⅓ cup unsweetened Cocoa Powder
• 2 cups sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs
• ½ cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Frosting Ingredients

• ½ cup (1 stick) butter
• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ¼ cup Coca-Cola
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cake Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease a 13×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.
2. Make the Cake:
   1. In a large saucepan, bring the Coca-Cola, vegetable oil, butter, and cocoa powder to a boil.
   2. Remove from heat and immediately whisk in the sugar and flour until well combined.
   3. Add the eggs, buttermilk, baking soda, and vanilla extract. Stir until the batter is smooth.
   4. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
   5. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Frosting Directions

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, bring the butter, cocoa powder, and Coca-Cola to a boil.
2. Remove from heat and whisk in the powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth.
3. Immediately pour the warm frosting over the hot cake and spread quickly.
4. Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing and serving.

Enjoy!

Recipe Notes

• Pour frosting while cake is hot: This creates the classic fudgy layer that soaks slightly into the warm cake—just like Cracker Barrel.
• Don’t skip the Coca-Cola: It enhances moisture and brings that signature Southern-style sweetness to both the cake and frosting.
• Use real buttermilk: Buttermilk activates the baking soda and helps keep the crumb tender and light.
• Want extra chocolate flavor? Add 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips to the warm batter before baking.
• Storage: Cover and store at room temperature for 2–3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use Diet Coke instead of regular Coca-Cola?

It’s not recommended. Regular Coca-Cola provides the sweetness needed for the cake’s texture and flavor. Diet sodas do not bake the same way.

Can I make this Coca-Cola cake ahead of time?

Yes! This cake tastes even better the next day as the frosting settles. Store covered at room temperature or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Why is my frosting too thick?

If the frosting cools too quickly, it thickens fast. Rewarm gently on low heat and whisk until pourable again.

Can I freeze Coca-Cola cake?

Yes. Freeze the cake (with frosting) tightly wrapped for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator, then bring to room temperature before serving.

What makes this a Cracker Barrel copycat recipe?

The warm poured chocolate frosting, Coca-Cola base, and moist fudge-like crumb closely replicate the restaurant’s classic Double Chocolate Fudge Coca-Cola Cake.