The Ultimate Copycat Cracker Barrel Coca-Cola Cake Recipe: A Southern Dessert Dream
Prepare to delight your taste buds with a true Southern classic: the Cracker Barrel Coca-Cola Cake. This extraordinary dessert is a double chocolate sensation, starting with a deeply rich and incredibly moist chocolate base, unique for its secret ingredient – real Coca-Cola. It’s then crowned with a luscious layer of sticky, sweet marshmallow cream, and finally enrobed in a decadent chocolate frosting that sets with a delightful crackle, creating an unforgettable texture and flavor experience. This recipe brings the beloved Cracker Barrel favorite right to your kitchen, perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Why This Copycat Cracker Barrel Coca-Cola Cake Recipe Is a Must-Try
Coca-Cola isn’t just for sipping; it’s a fantastic ingredient for baking, especially in this iconic Cracker Barrel Coca-Cola cake. If you’ve ever had a slice of this dessert at the famous restaurant, you’ll know exactly what I’m talking about – and you’ll definitely want to try this incredible copycat version for yourself. The unique fizz and subtle caramel notes of Coca-Cola react with the cocoa and baking soda, contributing to an incredibly tender crumb and a distinctive depth of flavor that a plain chocolate cake simply can’t achieve.
This recipe truly shines with its signature frosting. It’s undeniably sweet, designed to satisfy even the most fervent sweet tooth. The combination of a gooey marshmallow cream layer beneath a warm, pour-over chocolate frosting is pure genius. When poured hot, the frosting melts slightly into the marshmallow, creating a divinely fudgy and wonderfully crackled top that’s reminiscent of a classic Texas sheet cake. This “pour-over-hot” technique is key to achieving that perfect texture, allowing the frosting to seep slightly into the cake, creating an even more moist and flavorful result.
For those who prefer a slightly less sweet cake, you have the option to skip the marshmallow cream layer entirely. Instead, poke holes in the warm cake after baking and pour the hot chocolate frosting directly over it. This variation still offers a deliciously fudgy texture but with a more subdued sweetness. Whichever way you choose to prepare it, this Coca-Cola cake promises a moist, rich, and utterly satisfying experience that captures the essence of the beloved Cracker Barrel original.
Gather Your Ingredients for This Beloved Southern Treat
To embark on your journey to recreate this iconic dessert, you’ll need a selection of common baking staples, alongside the star ingredient – Coca-Cola! Below, you’ll find a detailed list of what’s required for both the luscious cake and its irresistible topping, along with some helpful notes and substitution suggestions to ensure your baking success. All precise measurements and step-by-step instructions are available in the printable recipe card at the end of this post.
Ingredient Spotlight & Expert Substitution Advice
Let’s dive deeper into the ingredients that make this Cracker Barrel Coca-Cola Cake so special:
For the Cake Base:
- Unbleached All-Purpose Flour, Granulated Sugar, Baking Soda: These are the foundational dry ingredients for any classic cake. The baking soda, in particular, will react with the acidity of the Coca-Cola and buttermilk, giving the cake its beautiful rise and tender texture. Ensure your baking soda is fresh for optimal results.
- Unsalted Butter (1 cup / 2 sticks): Provides richness and moisture. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the exact amount of salt in your recipe. If only salted butter is available, you may slightly reduce any additional salt called for in other components, though a small difference typically won’t alter the taste drastically in this sweet application.
- Coca-Cola (1 cup): This is the defining ingredient! It’s not merely a liquid; it contributes a unique effervescence that tenderizes the cake, a subtle caramel note, and a distinctive flavor that enhances the chocolate. While I haven’t tested this recipe with Diet Coke, Coke Zero, or off-brand colas, I highly recommend sticking to regular Coca-Cola for the authentic Cracker Barrel taste profile. The sugar content and specific flavor of regular Coke are crucial to the recipe’s success.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (5 tablespoons): Essential for that deep chocolate flavor. Choose a good quality unsweetened cocoa powder. Dutch-processed cocoa will give a darker color and mellower flavor, while natural cocoa will provide a slightly fruitier, more intense chocolate taste. Either will work, but consider your preference.
- Buttermilk (½ cup): Buttermilk is a secret weapon in baking. Its acidity helps tenderize the cake and activates the baking soda, contributing to a soft, moist crumb. If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make a substitute: simply add ½ tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to a liquid measuring cup, then fill the rest of the way to ½ cup with regular milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it slightly curdles before using.
- Eggs (2 large): Provide structure, richness, and moisture. Ensure they are at room temperature for better incorporation into the batter.
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): A crucial flavor enhancer that complements the chocolate and cola notes. Use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor.
For the Topping (Marshmallow & Chocolate Frosting):
- Marshmallow Cream (7 ounces): This sticky, sweet layer is a hallmark of the Cracker Barrel version. It adds a wonderful texture contrast and an extra boost of sweetness. If you’re not a fan of marshmallow cream, or simply prefer a simpler cake, you can omit it entirely. Alternatively, for a different texture, you could try using mini marshmallows, though they might result in a slightly lumpy top.
- Unsalted Butter (½ cup): Forms the base of the rich chocolate frosting.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (3 tablespoons): For the intense chocolate flavor in the frosting.
- Coca-Cola (9 tablespoons): Again, provides that signature flavor and helps create the pourable consistency of the frosting.
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the frosting’s flavor.
- Confectioners’ Sugar (4 cups): The primary sweetening and thickening agent for the frosting. Sifting it is crucial to avoid lumps and ensure a silky-smooth finish.
Crafting Your Cracker Barrel Coca-Cola Cake: Step-by-Step Guide
These step-by-step photos and detailed instructions are here to guide you visually through the process of making this delightful recipe. For a convenient printable version, complete with all measurements and instructions, simply jump to the full recipe card at the bottom of this post.
- Prepare Your Pan and Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a standard 9×13 inch baking pan with a nonstick cooking spray to ensure your cake releases easily.
- Combine Dry Cake Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, and baking soda. This ensures all dry ingredients are evenly distributed. Set this bowl aside for a moment.
- Melt Wet Cake Ingredients: In a small saucepan placed over medium heat, melt the 1 cup of unsalted butter with 5 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder and 1 cup of Coca-Cola. Stir continuously with a whisk as the butter melts and the mixture comes together. Bring it to a gentle boil, then remove it from the heat.
- Combine Cake Batters: Carefully pour the warm chocolate-cola mixture over your prepared flour mixture. Whisk vigorously until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and there are no dry pockets of flour. Next, add the buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Continue whisking until the batter is smooth, well-integrated, and free of lumps.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the smooth cake batter evenly into your greased 9×13 inch baking pan. Transfer it to the preheated oven and bake for approximately 40 minutes, or until a wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Prepare the Frosting: While the cake is in its final 10 minutes of baking, begin preparing the delightful frosting. This timing is crucial as both the cake and frosting need to be warm for the best results.
- Sift Sugar & Melt Frosting Ingredients: Have your marshmallow cream ready to go. Sift 4 cups of confectioners’ sugar into a large mixing bowl; sifting is essential for a smooth frosting. In a separate small saucepan over medium heat, melt ½ cup of unsalted butter with 3 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder and 9 tablespoons of Coca-Cola. Whisk these ingredients together until they reach a boil. Once boiling, remove the saucepan from the heat and whisk in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Combine Frosting: Pour the warm chocolate-cola mixture directly over the sifted confectioners’ sugar in the large mixing bowl. Whisk everything together thoroughly until the frosting is completely smooth, shiny, and lump-free. Work quickly as the frosting will start to set as it cools.
- Apply Toppings: As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, immediately drop dollops of marshmallow cream evenly over the hot cake. Let it sit for about a minute; the heat from the cake will make the marshmallow easier to spread. Gently and carefully spread the marshmallow cream across the entire top surface of the cake. Then, slowly and evenly drizzle the warm chocolate frosting over the marshmallow layer. The warm frosting will set beautifully, creating that signature crackled finish.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool completely at room temperature before slicing and serving. This allows the frosting to fully set and the flavors to meld beautifully. For an even more intense flavor, refrigerate overnight and enjoy the next day – many find it tastes even better!
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Perfection
Store this delightful Coca-Cola cake at room temperature. Ensure it’s tightly covered with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container to maintain its moisture and freshness. It will keep well for up to 4 days.
Absolutely! In fact, this Coca-Cola cake is renowned for tasting even better the next day as the flavors have more time to deepen and meld. You can bake and frost the entire cake a day in advance. Store it covered with an airtight lid or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap on your counter until you’re ready to serve.
The crackle in the frosting is achieved when the warm frosting is poured over the warm (or at least still quite warm) cake. If your frosting isn’t crackling, it might be due to the cake or the frosting being too cool when combined. Ensure both are warm when you apply the frosting. Also, allow the cake to cool completely after frosting; the crackle develops as it sets.
While it might be tempting to use Diet Coke or Coke Zero, I strongly recommend sticking with regular Coca-Cola for this recipe. The sugar content and specific flavor profile of traditional Coca-Cola are integral to the cake’s chemistry and taste. Diet sodas have artificial sweeteners and a different flavor that will alter the final outcome, potentially leading to a less moist cake and a different taste.
Do not overmix the batter once the wet and dry ingredients are combined; overmixing develops gluten, which can lead to a tough cake. Also, avoid overbaking the cake. Start checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended baking time by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out with moist crumbs but no wet batter, it’s ready.
Elevate Your Cracker Barrel Coca-Cola Cake Experience
Enjoy a generous slice of this copycat Cracker Barrel Coca-Cola cake either warm or at room temperature. To perfectly balance the intense chocolatey richness and sweetness, serve it with a cool scoop of high-quality vanilla ice cream. The creamy, cold ice cream provides a delightful contrast to the warm, moist cake. For an even more decadent treat, consider drizzling a bit of extra chocolate fudge sauce over the top, or a sprinkle of chopped pecans for a textural crunch. A dollop of fresh whipped cream also makes for a lovely, lighter accompaniment. This cake is truly a showstopper on its own, but these simple additions can transform it into an unforgettable dessert experience, perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or simply a sweet evening treat.
Explore More Delicious Cake Creations
If you loved this Cracker Barrel Coca-Cola cake, be sure to check out some of our other fantastic cake recipes that are sure to impress:
- Classic Marble Cake
- Velvety Red Velvet Cake
- Zesty Orange Pineapple Cake
- Sweet Cherry Cake with Cherry Frosting
- Homestyle Pineapple Upside Down Cake in a Cast Iron Skillet
- Surprisingly Delicious Mayonnaise Cake
I absolutely adore spending time in the kitchen, experimenting with new recipes, and sharing my culinary discoveries with all of you! It can be hard to remember to check back every day, which is why I offer a convenient newsletter delivering every new recipe straight to your inbox. Simply subscribe here and start receiving your free daily recipes!
Cracker Barrel Coca Cola Cake
★★★★★
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions and expert tips within the blog post that you may find very helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Ingredients
Cake
- 2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
- 1 cup Coca-Cola
- 5 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping
- 7 ounces marshmallow cream
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 9 tablespoons Coca-Cola
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 cups confectioners’ sugar
Things You’ll Need
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13×9 baking dish
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Mixing bowls
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Whisk
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Saucepan
Before You Begin
- If you decide to omit the marshmallow cream layer, simply poke holes in the warm cake after baking and pour the hot chocolate frosting directly over it for a delicious, fudgy result with less sweetness.
- For the most authentic flavor, stick to regular Coca-Cola. Diet or zero-sugar versions may alter the cake’s moisture and taste significantly.
Recipe adapted from Food.com
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13 baking pan with nonstick spray.
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Whisk together flour, granulated sugar, and baking soda in a mixing bowl. Set aside.
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In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 cup butter with 5 tablespoons cocoa and 1 cup Coca-Cola. Bring to a boil, whisking constantly as it melts and combines.
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Pour the warm chocolate mixture over the flour mixture and whisk until thoroughly combined. Add buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract and continue whisking until completely smooth.
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Pour the batter into the prepared 9×13 pan and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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During the last 10 minutes of baking, prepare the frosting.
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Set the marshmallow cream aside. Sift 4 cups of confectioners’ sugar into a large mixing bowl. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt ½ cup butter, 3 tablespoons cocoa powder, and 9 tablespoons Coca-Cola. Whisk together and bring to a boil. Remove from heat and whisk in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
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Pour the warm chocolate-cola mixture over the sifted confectioners’ sugar. Whisk together until completely combined and smooth.
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Remove the cake from the oven and immediately drop dollops of marshmallow cream onto the top of the hot cake. Allow it to sit for a minute or so for easier spreading. Carefully spread the marshmallow cream across the top of the cake. Slowly drizzle the warm chocolate frosting evenly over the marshmallow layer.
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Allow the cake to cool completely before serving. The flavors truly deepen and it tastes even better the next day!
Nutrition Facts
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The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full-sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.
This recipe originally appeared here on April 1, 2014, and has since been updated with new photos and expanded expert tips for an even better baking experience.