When I get a craving for chocolate cake there’s really not much else that will satisfy. There’s something about the tender cake and the rich frosting that go together perfectly. Over the years we’ve heard of a few things that can enhance the chocolate flavor (like instant coffee crystals), but this Coca Cola chocolate cake is one of the best. This is the same type that’s served at Cracker Barrel restaurants and it’s so delicious.

To make this cake you’ll need to bring butter, oil, and Coke to a boil over medium heat, then whisk in sugar and flour. This rich mixture is the basis for your cake batter.

Take the pan off the stove and and stir in cocoa powder, baking soda, buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla. The buttermilk adds leavening and flavor to the batter, but if you don’t have any on hand you can make a substitute by combining 1/2 cup milk and 1 teaspoon of lemon juice or white vinegar.

Pour the batter into a 9”x13” baking pan that’s been greased and once it’s done baking allow cake to cool off just a bit before applying the icing. However, you want the cake to still be a little bit warm when the topping goes on so that it can soak right into the cake.

To make the icing cream together butter and cocoa for frosting, then stir in the Coke, chocolate syrup, and vanilla. Add confectioner’s sugar a little at a time because you don’t want a thick icing here. Thin icing out with some more Coke if it’s too thick, adding one spoonful at a time until a thin mixture is achieved.

Pour the icing over the top of the cake and then allow it to cool before serving. By putting the icing on when the cake is still warm the moisture seeps into the cake and creates a luscious texture.

This cake is just divine and has a deeper flavor than regular chocolate cake thanks to the Coke and the buttermilk. You can serve this cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream like they do in the restaurant, but honestly this cake is wonderful all on its own. If you’re looking for a no-fail chocolate cake recipe then this is it!