You’ve never had chocolate cake like this before. Combining the rich, moist texture of chocolate cake with the fizzy, unexpected twist of coke, this recipe is a game-changer for dessert lovers everywhere.
Why This Recipe Works
- The coke adds a unique depth of flavor and moisture that water or milk can’t match.
- Using both cocoa powder and melted chocolate ensures a rich, intense chocolate flavor.
- The addition of a little coffee enhances the chocolate taste without making the cake taste like coffee.
- This recipe is foolproof, with clear, step-by-step instructions that guarantee success.
- It’s versatile, allowing for numerous variations to suit any taste or occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup coke
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup hot coffee
Equipment Needed
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Cooling rack
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease your 9×13 inch baking pan with butter or non-stick spray, then dust it lightly with cocoa powder to prevent sticking and add an extra chocolatey touch.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Ensure they’re well combined to avoid any pockets of unmixed ingredients in your batter.
Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix the coke, buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry, stirring until just combined. Then, stir in the hot coffee until the batter is smooth.
Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be springy to the touch.
Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely. Serve as is or with your favorite frosting.
Tips and Tricks
For an even more intense chocolate flavor, consider adding chocolate chips to the batter. If you’re out of buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes. To ensure your cake is as moist as possible, don’t overmix the batter once the wet and dry ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to a tougher cake.
Recipe Variations
- Add a cup of chocolate chips to the batter for extra chocolatey goodness.
- Top the cooled cake with a creamy peanut butter frosting for a chocolate-peanut butter combo.
- For a festive twist, mix in some peppermint extract and top with crushed candy canes.
- Create a mocha version by increasing the amount of coffee in the recipe.
- For a lighter version, substitute half of the oil with applesauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use diet coke instead of regular coke?
Yes, you can use diet coke if you prefer, but keep in mind that it may slightly alter the taste and texture of the cake. Regular coke provides a richer flavor and more consistent results.
What can I use instead of buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of milk and letting it sit for about 5 minutes before using.
Can this cake be made gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend is suitable for baking to achieve the best texture.
Summary
This chocolate cake coke recipe is a delightful twist on the classic dessert, offering a moist, rich, and flavorful cake that’s sure to impress. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, it’s perfect for any occasion.