Name: Cracker Barrel Coca Cola Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 cup unsalted butter; 3 tablespoons cocoa powder; 1 cup Coca Cola; 1/2 cup buttermilk; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

Welcome to a delightful journey into the realm of homemade desserts with a touch of southern charm. Today, we are diving into the beloved Cracker Barrel Coca Cola Cake recipe. Picture this: a moist and decadent chocolate cake infused with the effervescence of Coca Cola, topped with a luscious icing that will make your taste buds dance with joy. This recipe is not just a dessert; it’s a nostalgic experience, reminiscent of warm gatherings and sweet indulgences. Join me as we unravel the secrets of creating this iconic treat in your own kitchen.

Why is this recipe special, you may wonder? Well, besides its irresistible taste, the Cracker Barrel Coca Cola Cake holds a special place in the hearts of many. Its origins can be traced back to the American South, where hospitality and good food go hand in hand. This cake is a symbol of comfort, tradition, and the simple joys of life. By mastering this recipe, you are not just baking a cake; you are embracing a culinary tradition that has been passed down through generations.

Prepare to be enchanted by the harmonious blend of rich chocolate flavors and the unique twist of Coca Cola, creating a cake that is both familiar and intriguing. Whether you are a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to win you over with its simplicity and delicious results.

So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and let’s embark on a baking adventure that will fill your home with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

What sets the Cracker Barrel Coca Cola Cake apart from other desserts is its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The cake itself is moist, tender, and rich with chocolatey goodness, while the Coca Cola infusion adds a subtle hint of caramel sweetness that elevates the taste to new heights. The icing, with its creamy texture and indulgent flavor, is the proverbial cherry on top, tying the whole dessert together in a symphony of sweetness.

One of the best features of this recipe is its simplicity. You don’t need fancy ingredients or complex techniques to create a masterpiece; just a few pantry staples and a love for baking. Additionally, this cake is a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, a potluck, or simply craving a sweet treat, the Cracker Barrel Coca Cola Cake is sure to satisfy even the most discerning sweet tooth.

For those conscious of dietary preferences, this recipe can be easily adapted to suit various needs. With simple ingredient substitutions, you can make this cake gluten-free, dairy-free, or even vegan without compromising on taste or quality. Versatile and delicious, this dessert is a true winner in every aspect.

Get ready to fall in love with a dessert that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also brings a sense of warmth and nostalgia to your table. The Cracker Barrel Coca Cola Cake is more than just a treat; it’s a celebration of homemade goodness and the joy of sharing delicious food with those you love.

Ingredients

To embark on this baking adventure, you will need the following ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour

– 2 cups granulated sugar

– 1 cup unsalted butter

– 3 tablespoons cocoa powder

– 1 cup Coca Cola

– 1/2 cup buttermilk

– 2 large eggs

– 1 teaspoon baking soda

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional ingredient substitutions:

– For a gluten-free version, you can use a gluten-free flour blend.

– To make the cake dairy-free, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and the buttermilk with dairy-free milk mixed with lemon juice.

– For a vegan option, use plant-based butter, dairy-free milk, and an egg replacer such as flaxseed meal or applesauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and sugar.

3. In a saucepan, melt the butter, cocoa powder, and Coca Cola over medium heat, stirring until smooth.

4. Pour the cocoa mixture over the flour mixture and stir until well combined.

5. Add the buttermilk, eggs, baking soda, and vanilla extract, mixing until the batter is smooth.

6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

7. While the cake is baking, prepare the icing by melting butter in a saucepan, then adding cocoa powder and Coca Cola. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat and stir in powdered sugar until smooth.

8. Once the cake is done, pour the warm icing over the hot cake, spreading it evenly.

9. Allow the cake to cool before slicing and serving. Enjoy the delectable flavors of your homemade Cracker Barrel Coca Cola Cake!

Expert Tips for Success

For the best results when making this cake:

– Use room temperature ingredients to ensure proper mixing and a uniform texture.

– Don’t overmix the batter; a few lumps are okay and will result in a lighter cake.

– Test the cake for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean with a few moist crumbs.

– When preparing the icing, work quickly as it sets fast once poured over the warm cake.

Variations and Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with this recipe:

– Add chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts to the cake batter for extra crunch.

– Sprinkle shredded coconut on top of the icing for a tropical twist.

– Experiment with different soda flavors like root beer or cherry cola for unique flavor profiles.

– Substitute part of the flour with almond flour for a nutty undertone in the cake.

Serving Suggestions

To serve your Cracker Barrel Coca Cola Cake in style:

– Serve warm slices with a dollop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

– Pair with a cold glass of milk or a steaming cup of coffee for a delightful treat any time of day.

– Garnish with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an elegant presentation.

– Share this cake with friends and family to spread the joy of homemade baking and good company.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can bake the cake in advance and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Warm slices in the microwave before serving.

Q: Can I freeze the Coca Cola Cake?

A: Absolutely! Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.

Q: My icing turned out too thin. How can I thicken it?

A: If your icing is too thin, you can whisk in additional powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency. Alternatively, let it cool slightly to thicken before pouring over the cake.

Q: Can I use diet or sugar-free soda in this recipe?

A: While regular Coca Cola is recommended for the authentic flavor, you can certainly use diet or sugar-free soda as a lighter alternative with slightly different results.

Final Thoughts

As we wrap up our journey through the delectable world of the Cracker Barrel Coca Cola Cake recipe, I hope you are inspired to recreate this iconic dessert in your own kitchen. From its humble beginnings in southern kitchens to its place on modern dining tables, this cake embodies the essence of comfort, tradition, and good taste.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the magic of baking transport you to a place where every slice tells a story of homemade goodness and shared moments of joy. Whether you’re a baking enthusiast or a dessert lover looking for something special, this recipe is sure to delight your senses and create lasting memories with each bite.

Thank you for joining me on this culinary adventure. May your Cracker Barrel Coca Cola Cake be a sweet success and a source of happiness for you and your loved ones. Happy baking!