Cracker Barrel Coca Cola Cake Recipe

Caroline

Sharing simple, flavorful recipes made with love and care.

Growing up, road trips were a staple in our family. And no road trip was complete without a stop at Cracker Barrel. While the rocking chairs on the porch and the old country store were always charming, it was the food that truly captivated us. And among all the Southern comfort classics, the Coca-Cola Cake was legendary. Moist, deeply chocolatey, with a hint of cola and topped with a rich, fudgy frosting, it was the perfect sweet ending to a hearty meal. For years, I dreamt of recreating that iconic cake at home. I tried countless recipes, some coming close, but none quite capturing the magic of the Cracker Barrel version. Then, I finally stumbled upon a recipe that was, dare I say, even better. This homemade Coca-Cola Cake is unbelievably moist, intensely flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make. It’s become a regular request at family gatherings, potlucks, and any time we need a little taste of Southern comfort. The subtle cola flavor enhances the chocolate without being overpowering, and the frosting is simply decadent. If you’re looking for a recipe that will transport you straight to a cozy Cracker Barrel booth, that’s guaranteed to impress, and that will become a cherished family favorite, then you absolutely must try this homemade Coca-Cola Cake recipe. It’s a nostalgic slice of heaven that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients for Cracker Barrel Coca-Cola Cake

To bake a truly authentic and irresistible Coca-Cola Cake reminiscent of Cracker Barrel’s famous dessert, you’ll need a selection of high-quality ingredients. The magic of this cake lies in the interplay of simple pantry staples, combined in a way that creates a uniquely moist and flavorful treat. Here’s a detailed list of everything you’ll need for both the cake and the luscious frosting:

For the Coca-Cola Cake:

  • All-Purpose Flour: 2 cups of all-purpose flour. Flour forms the structural base of the cake, providing the necessary gluten development for a tender crumb. All-purpose flour is versatile and readily available, striking a good balance between structure and tenderness. For best results, measure flour correctly by spooning it into a measuring cup and leveling it off, rather than scooping directly from the bag, which can lead to over-measuring.
  • Granulated Sugar: 2 cups of granulated sugar. Sugar not only sweetens the cake but also contributes to its moistness and tender texture. It caramelizes during baking, adding depth of flavor and a golden-brown crust. Granulated sugar is the standard choice for cakes due to its consistent texture and clean sweetness.
  • Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: ½ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder. Cocoa powder is the heart of the chocolate flavor in this cake. Unsweetened cocoa powder provides a rich, intense chocolate taste without added sweetness. Use a good quality unsweetened cocoa powder for the best chocolate flavor; Dutch-processed cocoa powder will yield a darker, less bitter flavor and color, while natural cocoa powder will have a more pronounced chocolate flavor.
  • Baking Soda: 1 teaspoon of baking soda. Baking soda is a chemical leavening agent that reacts with acidic ingredients (like cocoa powder and buttermilk, if used in variations) to create carbon dioxide gas, causing the cake to rise. It also contributes to the cake’s tender crumb and characteristic texture. Ensure your baking soda is fresh for optimal leavening power.
  • Salt: ½ teaspoon of salt. Salt enhances the flavors of all the other ingredients in the cake, balancing the sweetness and bringing out the chocolate notes. It also controls the yeast activity in leavening, contributing to the cake’s structure. Use table salt or fine sea salt for baking.
  • Butter: 1 cup (2 sticks) of unsalted butter, cut into cubes. Butter adds richness, flavor, and tenderness to the cake. Unsalted butter allows you to control the salt content in the recipe. Cutting the butter into cubes helps it melt quickly and evenly. You can use salted butter if that’s what you have on hand, but reduce the added salt in the recipe slightly.
  • Coca-Cola: 1 cup of Coca-Cola (regular, not diet). Coca-Cola is the secret ingredient that gives this cake its unique flavor and incredibly moist texture. The cola adds a subtle tanginess and depth of flavor that enhances the chocolate without being overtly cola-flavored. Regular Coca-Cola is recommended for its sugar content, which contributes to the cake’s texture and moisture.
  • Buttermilk: ½ cup of buttermilk. Buttermilk adds tanginess and moisture to the cake, contributing to its tender crumb and slightly acidic flavor profile that complements the chocolate and cola. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding ½ tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to ½ cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes until slightly thickened and curdled.
  • Vegetable Oil: ½ cup of vegetable oil. Vegetable oil adds significant moisture to the cake, contributing to its incredibly soft and tender texture that stays moist for days. Use a neutral-flavored oil like canola oil, soybean oil, or corn oil.
  • Eggs: 2 large eggs. Eggs provide structure, richness, and binding to the cake batter. They contribute to the cake’s rise, tenderness, and overall texture. Use large eggs at room temperature for best incorporation into the batter.
  • Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile of the cake, adding a warm, aromatic note that complements the chocolate, cola, and other ingredients. Use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor, rather than imitation vanilla.

For the Coca-Cola Cake Frosting:

  • Butter: ½ cup (1 stick) of unsalted butter, cut into cubes. Butter is the base of the frosting, providing richness, flavor, and a smooth, creamy texture. Unsalted butter allows you to control the salt level in the frosting. Again, cutting into cubes helps it melt evenly.
  • Coca-Cola: ¼ cup of Coca-Cola (regular, not diet). Coca-Cola in the frosting echoes the flavor in the cake, intensifying the cola notes and contributing to the frosting’s smooth, pourable consistency.
  • Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: ¼ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder. Cocoa powder deepens the chocolate flavor of the frosting, creating a rich, fudgy, and intensely chocolatey topping for the cake.
  • Powdered Sugar: 3 cups of powdered sugar. Powdered sugar provides sweetness and structure to the frosting, creating a smooth, creamy, and spreadable consistency. Sift the powdered sugar before measuring to remove any lumps and ensure a smooth frosting.
  • Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor of the frosting, adding a warm, aromatic note that complements the chocolate and cola.
  • Pinch of Salt: A pinch of salt. Salt balances the sweetness of the frosting and enhances the chocolate flavor, preventing it from being overly sweet.

Having all these ingredients measured and ready to go before you begin baking will make the process smoother and more enjoyable, ensuring you can create a truly delicious and authentic Cracker Barrel Coca-Cola Cake that is sure to impress.

Instructions for Making Cracker Barrel Coca-Cola Cake

Baking this delectable Cracker Barrel Coca-Cola Cake is a straightforward process, even for novice bakers. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a moist, flavorful cake and its signature fudgy frosting:

For the Coca-Cola Cake:

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. Greasing and flouring prevents the cake from sticking to the pan, ensuring easy removal after baking. You can also use baking spray with flour for convenience. Set the prepared pan aside.
  2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisking ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly combined and any lumps in the cocoa powder or baking soda are broken up. Set the bowl aside.
  3. Melt Butter and Coca-Cola: In a medium saucepan, combine the cubed butter and Coca-Cola. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the butter is completely melted. Remove the saucepan from the heat once the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth. Do not boil.
  4. Add Wet Ingredients to Dry: Pour the hot butter and Coca-Cola mixture over the dry ingredients in the large mixing bowl. Stir with a whisk or spatula until just combined. The batter will be thin at this stage, which is normal.
  5. Incorporate Buttermilk, Oil, Eggs, and Vanilla: Add the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract to the batter. Stir until everything is thoroughly combined and the batter is smooth. Make sure the eggs are fully incorporated and there are no streaks of egg yolk visible.
  6. Pour Batter into Prepared Pan: Pour the cake batter into the prepared 9×13 inch baking pan, spreading it evenly to the corners.
  7. Bake the Cake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Start checking for doneness around 30 minutes. Baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven. The cake should spring back lightly when gently pressed in the center.
  8. Prepare Frosting While Cake Bakes: While the cake is baking, prepare the frosting so it’s ready to pour over the warm cake immediately after it comes out of the oven. This allows the frosting to melt slightly and soak into the cake, creating its signature fudgy texture.

For the Coca-Cola Cake Frosting:

  1. Melt Butter, Coca-Cola, and Cocoa Powder: In a medium saucepan, combine the cubed butter, Coca-Cola, and unsweetened cocoa powder. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then immediately remove from heat. Boiling helps to create a smooth, fudgy frosting.
  2. Whisk in Powdered Sugar and Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from the heat and immediately whisk in the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until smooth. Whisk vigorously to ensure there are no lumps of powdered sugar. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. The frosting should be smooth, glossy, and pourable. If the frosting is too thick, you can add a tiny splash of Coca-Cola or milk to thin it slightly, but it should be pourable consistency.
  3. Pour Frosting Over Hot Cake: As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, pour the hot frosting evenly over the hot cake. The heat of the cake and frosting will help the frosting to melt slightly and create a beautiful, fudgy glaze that soaks into the top layer of the cake.
  4. Let Frosting Set: Let the frosting set completely at room temperature before slicing and serving. This usually takes about 30-60 minutes for the frosting to firm up slightly and become less sticky. You can speed up the setting process by placing the cake in the refrigerator for a shorter period, but room temperature setting is generally preferred for the best frosting texture.
  5. Slice and Serve: Once the frosting has set, slice the Coca-Cola Cake into squares and serve. This cake is delicious served warm or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, if desired.

Following these detailed instructions will guide you to bake a perfect Cracker Barrel Coca-Cola Cake that is moist, intensely chocolatey, and topped with a luscious, fudgy frosting. It’s a delightful dessert that’s sure to impress family and friends and bring a taste of Southern comfort to your table.

Nutrition Facts for Cracker Barrel Coca-Cola Cake

Understanding the nutritional content of desserts allows for mindful indulgence. Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown for a serving of Cracker Barrel Coca-Cola Cake. Please note that these are approximate values and can vary based on specific ingredient brands, portion sizes, and slight variations in the recipe.

Servings: This recipe typically yields approximately 12-16 servings, depending on how large you slice the cake. For nutritional estimates, we’ll consider 16 servings.

Estimated Nutrition Facts Per Serving (Approximate Values, based on 16 servings):

  • Calories: 400-500 calories
    • Calorie count can vary depending on portion size and specific ingredient quantities.
  • Protein: 4-5 grams
    • Protein content is relatively low, mainly from eggs and flour.
  • Fat: 20-25 grams
    • Fat content is primarily from butter and vegetable oil in both the cake and frosting.
  • Saturated Fat: 12-15 grams
    • Saturated fat content comes mainly from butter.
  • Cholesterol: 60-80 mg
    • Cholesterol is primarily from eggs and butter.
  • Sodium: 200-300 mg
    • Sodium content is from salt and baking soda.
  • Carbohydrates: 60-70 grams
    • Carbohydrates are primarily from sugar and flour.
  • Fiber: 1-2 grams
    • Fiber content is low, mainly from flour and cocoa powder.
  • Sugar: 40-50 grams
    • Sugar content is high, primarily from granulated sugar, powdered sugar, and Coca-Cola.

Key Nutritional Considerations:

  • High in Calories: Coca-Cola Cake is a calorie-dense dessert, primarily due to its sugar and fat content. Portion control is important for managing calorie intake.
  • High in Sugar: The cake is high in sugar from both granulated and powdered sugar, as well as the sugar in Coca-Cola. Individuals monitoring their sugar intake should be mindful of portion sizes.
  • High in Fat and Saturated Fat: The cake contains a significant amount of fat, particularly saturated fat, from butter and vegetable oil. Those watching their fat intake should consume in moderation.
  • Low in Fiber and Protein: The cake is relatively low in fiber and protein, making it primarily a source of carbohydrates and fats.
  • Not a Significant Source of Vitamins and Minerals: While cocoa powder contains some antioxidants, the overall cake is not a significant source of essential vitamins and minerals.

Tips for Mindful Indulgence:

  • Portion Control: Enjoy Coca-Cola Cake as an occasional treat and practice portion control. Smaller slices can help manage calorie and sugar intake.
  • Balance with Healthier Meals: Balance your diet by incorporating plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains into your other meals to offset the less nutritious aspects of dessert.
  • Homemade Version Control: Making it at home allows you to have more control over ingredient quality, but nutritional content remains relatively similar to restaurant versions.

These nutrition facts are intended as a general guideline. For more precise nutritional information, you can use online nutrition calculators or apps, inputting the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use in your recipe. Enjoy this delicious Coca-Cola Cake as a treat in moderation, being mindful of its nutritional profile as part of a balanced diet.

Preparation Time for Cracker Barrel Coca-Cola Cake

While the flavor of Cracker Barrel Coca-Cola Cake is rich and complex, the preparation process is surprisingly straightforward and efficient. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated time involved in making this delightful dessert:

  • Prep Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes.
    • Measuring out dry ingredients (5-7 minutes).
    • Cutting butter into cubes (2-3 minutes).
    • Melting butter and Coca-Cola (5-7 minutes).
    • Measuring wet ingredients (3-5 minutes).
    • Making the frosting (5-7 minutes, done while cake bakes).
    • Greasing and flouring pan (2-3 minutes).
  • Cook Time: Approximately 30-35 minutes.
    • Baking the cake in the oven (30-35 minutes).
  • Total Time: Approximately 50-60 minutes.

Therefore, from start to finish, you can have a freshly baked and frosted Cracker Barrel Coca-Cola Cake ready to enjoy in about an hour. This moderate preparation time makes it a great option for:

  • Weekend Baking Projects: Perfect for a weekend baking session when you have a little more time to spend in the kitchen.
  • Special Occasions: Ideal for birthdays, holidays, potlucks, and other celebrations where you want to impress with a homemade dessert.
  • Make-Ahead Dessert: While best enjoyed fresh, the cake and frosting can be made a day ahead and assembled, making it convenient for entertaining.
  • Impressive Yet Manageable: The recipe is easy to follow and doesn’t require advanced baking skills, making it accessible to home bakers of all levels.

Time-Saving Tips:

  • Measure Ingredients Ahead: Measure out all dry and wet ingredients before you start the baking process. This “mise en place” approach streamlines the cooking flow and saves time.
  • Multitasking: Prepare the frosting while the cake is baking in the oven. This efficient use of time allows you to have both components ready simultaneously.
  • Quick Melting: Cutting butter into smaller cubes helps it melt faster, reducing the time spent melting butter and Coca-Cola.
  • Pantry Staples: The recipe uses common pantry staples, so you likely already have most of the ingredients on hand, minimizing prep time for grocery shopping.

The reasonable preparation time, combined with the incredible flavor and comforting nature of Cracker Barrel Coca-Cola Cake, makes it a rewarding baking project that is well worth the effort, especially when you want to create a memorable and delicious dessert.

How to Serve Cracker Barrel Coca-Cola Cake

Cracker Barrel Coca-Cola Cake is a versatile dessert that can be served in various ways, depending on the occasion and your preferences. Its rich chocolate flavor and moist texture make it a crowd-pleasing treat that is perfect for casual gatherings or more formal celebrations. Here are some serving suggestions:

Classic Serving Styles:

  • Sliced into Squares: The most traditional and straightforward way to serve Coca-Cola Cake is sliced into squares directly from the 9×13 inch baking pan. This is perfect for casual family dinners, potlucks, or weeknight desserts.
  • On Plates: For a slightly more elegant presentation, serve individual squares of cake on dessert plates. This is suitable for dinner parties or special occasions.
  • Warm or Room Temperature: Coca-Cola Cake is delicious served both warm and at room temperature. Warm cake is especially comforting, while room temperature cake is still wonderfully moist and flavorful.

Enhancements and Toppings:

  • Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream is a classic and perfect pairing for Coca-Cola Cake. The cold, creamy ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm, fudgy cake, creating a delightful combination of textures and temperatures.
  • Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy, and slightly sweet topping that complements the richness of the cake. You can use sweetened or unsweetened whipped cream, depending on your preference.
  • Chocolate Syrup or Sauce: For an extra dose of chocolate intensity, drizzle chocolate syrup or chocolate sauce over the cake. This is particularly decadent for chocolate lovers.
  • Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of caramel sauce adds a sweet and buttery counterpoint to the chocolate, creating a delightful flavor combination. Salted caramel sauce can add an extra layer of complexity.
  • Fresh Berries: A scattering of fresh berries, such as strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries, adds a touch of freshness, color, and a slightly tart counterpoint to the richness of the cake.
  • Dusting of Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar over the frosted cake adds a simple yet elegant finishing touch, enhancing the visual appeal.

Serving Occasions:

  • Casual Family Desserts: Perfect for weeknight desserts, family gatherings, and casual get-togethers.
  • Potlucks and Parties: An excellent choice for potlucks, picnics, birthday parties, and holiday celebrations as it’s easy to transport and serve a crowd.
  • Holiday Gatherings: A comforting and crowd-pleasing dessert for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, and other holiday feasts.
  • Southern-Themed Meals: Ideal to serve as the dessert for a Southern comfort food meal, complementing dishes like fried chicken, barbecue, or mac and cheese.
  • Coffee or Tea Time: A delightful accompaniment to coffee, tea, or milk for an afternoon or evening treat.

Beverage Pairings:

  • Milk: A glass of cold milk is a classic and comforting pairing with Coca-Cola Cake, especially for children and those who enjoy a simple pairing.
  • Coffee: Hot coffee, whether regular brewed coffee, latte, or cappuccino, pairs wonderfully with the chocolate and cola flavors of the cake.
  • Iced Coffee: On warmer days, iced coffee or cold brew is a refreshing beverage to serve alongside.
  • Sweet Tea: Sweet tea, a Southern staple, is a fitting and traditional beverage pairing for this Southern-inspired cake.
  • Coca-Cola (Optional, for the truly dedicated): For the ultimate Coca-Cola experience, you can serve a glass of Coca-Cola alongside the cake, although this might be considered overkill for some.

By considering these serving suggestions, you can present your Cracker Barrel Coca-Cola Cake in a way that is appropriate for any occasion, from a simple family treat to a more elaborate gathering. The key is to serve it with your favorite accompaniments and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of this classic Southern dessert.

Additional Tips for Perfect Cracker Barrel Coca-Cola Cake

To ensure your homemade Cracker Barrel Coca-Cola Cake is consistently moist, flavorful, and reminiscent of the restaurant classic, here are five additional tips to keep in mind while baking:

  1. Don’t Overbake the Cake: Overbaking is the enemy of a moist cake. Start checking for doneness around 30 minutes of baking time. The cake is done when a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. Overbaked cake will be dry and crumbly. Err on the side of slightly underbaked if you are unsure, as the residual heat will continue to cook the cake as it cools.
  2. Pour Frosting Over Hot Cake: Pouring the hot frosting over the hot cake is crucial for achieving the signature fudgy texture and allowing the frosting to soak into the cake layers. The heat helps the frosting to melt slightly and penetrate the top of the cake, creating that wonderfully moist and gooey top layer that is characteristic of Coca-Cola Cake. Don’t let the cake cool completely before frosting.
  3. Use Fresh Coca-Cola (Not Flat): While the Coca-Cola is heated in both the cake and frosting, using fresh, bubbly Coca-Cola (not flat or stale) can contribute to the cake’s overall texture and flavor. The carbonation might play a subtle role in leavening and moisture. While not strictly essential, using fresh Coca-Cola ensures the best possible outcome.
  4. Measure Flour Correctly: Accurately measuring flour is important for cake baking. Too much flour can result in a dry, dense cake. Use the spoon and level method: lightly spoon flour into a dry measuring cup and level it off with a straight edge. Avoid scooping flour directly from the bag, as this compacts the flour and leads to over-measuring.
  5. Let Frosting Set Completely: Resist the temptation to slice into the cake immediately after frosting. Allow the frosting to set completely at room temperature before slicing and serving. This allows the frosting to firm up slightly, become less sticky, and develop its fudgy texture. While warm cake can be tempting, allowing the frosting to set improves the overall eating experience and makes slicing cleaner and easier.

By incorporating these additional tips into your baking process, you can refine your technique and consistently create a perfect Cracker Barrel Coca-Cola Cake that is moist, deeply flavorful, and a true delight to enjoy every time. These small details can make a big difference in the final outcome of this classic dessert.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Cracker Barrel Coca-Cola Cake

Here are five frequently asked questions about Cracker Barrel Coca-Cola Cake, along with their answers, to help you better understand and customize this recipe:

Q1: Can I use diet Coca-Cola in this recipe?

A: It is generally not recommended to use diet Coca-Cola in this recipe. Regular Coca-Cola contains sugar, which contributes to the cake’s moisture, texture, and flavor. Diet Coca-Cola, lacking sugar, may result in a cake that is less moist, less tender, and with a slightly different flavor profile. For the most authentic and best-tasting Coca-Cola Cake, stick with regular Coca-Cola.

Q2: Can I make Coca-Cola Cake ahead of time?

A: Yes, Coca-Cola Cake is a great make-ahead dessert. In fact, many find that the cake is even better the next day after the flavors have melded and the cake has had time to fully absorb the frosting.

  • Make Cake and Frosting Separately: You can bake the cake and make the frosting a day ahead. Let the cake cool completely, then cover it tightly and store at room temperature. Store the frosting in an airtight container at room temperature as well.
  • Assemble Later: When ready to serve, reheat the frosting gently if it has thickened (it should be pourable), and pour it over the cake. Let the frosting set before slicing and serving.
  • Fully Frosted Cake: Alternatively, you can bake, frost, and let the cake set completely, then cover it tightly and store at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. The cake stays wonderfully moist.

Q3: Can I freeze Coca-Cola Cake?

A: Yes, Coca-Cola Cake freezes well, making it a convenient make-ahead dessert for longer storage.

  • Freeze Unfrosted Cake: For best results, freeze the cake unfrosted. Let the cake cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
  • Freeze Frosted Cake (Less Ideal): You can freeze frosted cake, but the frosting texture may change slightly upon thawing. Freeze individual slices or the whole cake on a baking sheet until solid, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
  • Thawing: Thaw frozen cake in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. If freezing frosted cake, be gentle during thawing to preserve the frosting’s appearance.

Q4: Can I make Coca-Cola Cake in a different pan size?

A: Yes, you can adapt the recipe to different pan sizes, but baking time will need adjustment.

  • Two 9-inch Round Pans: You can divide the batter between two 9-inch round cake pans for a layer cake. Baking time may be slightly shorter, around 25-30 minutes.
  • Bundt Pan: You can bake it in a Bundt pan, but ensure the pan is well-greased and floured. Baking time may be longer, around 40-50 minutes.
  • Muffin Tins (Cupcakes): You can make Coca-Cola cupcakes. Fill muffin tins about 2/3 full and bake for 18-22 minutes.

Always adjust baking time based on pan size and check for doneness with a skewer.

Q5: Can I add nuts to the Coca-Cola Cake or Frosting?

A: Yes, adding nuts is a popular variation for Coca-Cola Cake, especially pecans or walnuts, for added texture and flavor.

  • Chopped Nuts in Cake Batter: You can add ½ cup to 1 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the cake batter along with the wet ingredients.
  • Toasted Nuts on Frosting: Sprinkle toasted chopped pecans or walnuts over the frosted cake while the frosting is still slightly wet. This adds a crunchy topping and nutty flavor.
  • Nuts in Frosting: You can also incorporate chopped nuts directly into the frosting for a nutty frosting.

Choose your preferred method and amount of nuts to customize your Coca-Cola Cake to your liking.

These FAQs should provide you with helpful information and address common questions you might have while preparing Cracker Barrel Coca-Cola Cake. Enjoy baking and savoring this classic and comforting dessert!

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Cracker Barrel Coca Cola Cake Recipe


  • Author: Caroline

Ingredients

For the Coca-Cola Cake:

    • All-Purpose Flour: 2 cups of all-purpose flour. Flour forms the structural base of the cake, providing the necessary gluten development for a tender crumb. All-purpose flour is versatile and readily available, striking a good balance between structure and tenderness. For best results, measure flour correctly by spooning it into a measuring cup and leveling it off, rather than scooping directly from the bag, which can lead to over-measuring.

    • Granulated Sugar: 2 cups of granulated sugar. Sugar not only sweetens the cake but also contributes to its moistness and tender texture. It caramelizes during baking, adding depth of flavor and a golden-brown crust. Granulated sugar is the standard choice for cakes due to its consistent texture and clean sweetness.

    • Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: ½ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder. Cocoa powder is the heart of the chocolate flavor in this cake. Unsweetened cocoa powder provides a rich, intense chocolate taste without added sweetness. Use a good quality unsweetened cocoa powder for the best chocolate flavor; Dutch-processed cocoa powder will yield a darker, less bitter flavor and color, while natural cocoa powder will have a more pronounced chocolate flavor.

    • Baking Soda: 1 teaspoon of baking soda. Baking soda is a chemical leavening agent that reacts with acidic ingredients (like cocoa powder and buttermilk, if used in variations) to create carbon dioxide gas, causing the cake to rise. It also contributes to the cake’s tender crumb and characteristic texture. Ensure your baking soda is fresh for optimal leavening power.

    • Salt: ½ teaspoon of salt. Salt enhances the flavors of all the other ingredients in the cake, balancing the sweetness and bringing out the chocolate notes. It also controls the yeast activity in leavening, contributing to the cake’s structure. Use table salt or fine sea salt for baking.

    • Butter: 1 cup (2 sticks) of unsalted butter, cut into cubes. Butter adds richness, flavor, and tenderness to the cake. Unsalted butter allows you to control the salt content in the recipe. Cutting the butter into cubes helps it melt quickly and evenly. You can use salted butter if that’s what you have on hand, but reduce the added salt in the recipe slightly.

    • Coca-Cola: 1 cup of Coca-Cola (regular, not diet). Coca-Cola is the secret ingredient that gives this cake its unique flavor and incredibly moist texture. The cola adds a subtle tanginess and depth of flavor that enhances the chocolate without being overtly cola-flavored. Regular Coca-Cola is recommended for its sugar content, which contributes to the cake’s texture and moisture.

    • Buttermilk: ½ cup of buttermilk. Buttermilk adds tanginess and moisture to the cake, contributing to its tender crumb and slightly acidic flavor profile that complements the chocolate and cola. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding ½ tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to ½ cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes until slightly thickened and curdled.

    • Vegetable Oil: ½ cup of vegetable oil. Vegetable oil adds significant moisture to the cake, contributing to its incredibly soft and tender texture that stays moist for days. Use a neutral-flavored oil like canola oil, soybean oil, or corn oil.

    • Eggs: 2 large eggs. Eggs provide structure, richness, and binding to the cake batter. They contribute to the cake’s rise, tenderness, and overall texture. Use large eggs at room temperature for best incorporation into the batter.

    • Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile of the cake, adding a warm, aromatic note that complements the chocolate, cola, and other ingredients. Use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor, rather than imitation vanilla.

For the Coca-Cola Cake Frosting:

    • Butter: ½ cup (1 stick) of unsalted butter, cut into cubes. Butter is the base of the frosting, providing richness, flavor, and a smooth, creamy texture. Unsalted butter allows you to control the salt level in the frosting. Again, cutting into cubes helps it melt evenly.

    • Coca-Cola: ¼ cup of Coca-Cola (regular, not diet). Coca-Cola in the frosting echoes the flavor in the cake, intensifying the cola notes and contributing to the frosting’s smooth, pourable consistency.

    • Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: ¼ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder. Cocoa powder deepens the chocolate flavor of the frosting, creating a rich, fudgy, and intensely chocolatey topping for the cake.

    • Powdered Sugar: 3 cups of powdered sugar. Powdered sugar provides sweetness and structure to the frosting, creating a smooth, creamy, and spreadable consistency. Sift the powdered sugar before measuring to remove any lumps and ensure a smooth frosting.

    • Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor of the frosting, adding a warm, aromatic note that complements the chocolate and cola.

    • Pinch of Salt: A pinch of salt. Salt balances the sweetness of the frosting and enhances the chocolate flavor, preventing it from being overly sweet.


Instructions

For the Coca-Cola Cake:

    1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. Greasing and flouring prevents the cake from sticking to the pan, ensuring easy removal after baking. You can also use baking spray with flour for convenience. Set the prepared pan aside.

    1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisking ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly combined and any lumps in the cocoa powder or baking soda are broken up. Set the bowl aside.

    1. Melt Butter and Coca-Cola: In a medium saucepan, combine the cubed butter and Coca-Cola. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the butter is completely melted. Remove the saucepan from the heat once the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth. Do not boil.

    1. Add Wet Ingredients to Dry: Pour the hot butter and Coca-Cola mixture over the dry ingredients in the large mixing bowl. Stir with a whisk or spatula until just combined. The batter will be thin at this stage, which is normal.

    1. Incorporate Buttermilk, Oil, Eggs, and Vanilla: Add the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract to the batter. Stir until everything is thoroughly combined and the batter is smooth. Make sure the eggs are fully incorporated and there are no streaks of egg yolk visible.

    1. Pour Batter into Prepared Pan: Pour the cake batter into the prepared 9×13 inch baking pan, spreading it evenly to the corners.

    1. Bake the Cake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Start checking for doneness around 30 minutes. Baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven. The cake should spring back lightly when gently pressed in the center.

    1. Prepare Frosting While Cake Bakes: While the cake is baking, prepare the frosting so it’s ready to pour over the warm cake immediately after it comes out of the oven. This allows the frosting to melt slightly and soak into the cake, creating its signature fudgy texture.

For the Coca-Cola Cake Frosting:

    1. Melt Butter, Coca-Cola, and Cocoa Powder: In a medium saucepan, combine the cubed butter, Coca-Cola, and unsweetened cocoa powder. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then immediately remove from heat. Boiling helps to create a smooth, fudgy frosting.

    1. Whisk in Powdered Sugar and Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from the heat and immediately whisk in the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until smooth. Whisk vigorously to ensure there are no lumps of powdered sugar. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. The frosting should be smooth, glossy, and pourable. If the frosting is too thick, you can add a tiny splash of Coca-Cola or milk to thin it slightly, but it should be pourable consistency.

    1. Pour Frosting Over Hot Cake: As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, pour the hot frosting evenly over the hot cake. The heat of the cake and frosting will help the frosting to melt slightly and create a beautiful, fudgy glaze that soaks into the top layer of the cake.

    1. Let Frosting Set: Let the frosting set completely at room temperature before slicing and serving. This usually takes about 30-60 minutes for the frosting to firm up slightly and become less sticky. You can speed up the setting process by placing the cake in the refrigerator for a shorter period, but room temperature setting is generally preferred for the best frosting texture.

    1. Slice and Serve: Once the frosting has set, slice the Coca-Cola Cake into squares and serve. This cake is delicious served warm or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, if desired.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: one normal portion
  • Calories: 400-500
  • Sugar: 40-50 grams
  • Sodium: 200-300 mg
  • Fat: 20-25 grams
  • Saturated Fat:  12-15 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 60-70 grams
  • Fiber: 1-2 grams
  • Protein: 4-5 grams
  • Cholesterol: 60-80 mg