Coca Cola Cake

This Coca Cola Cake is a super moist, rich chocolate sheet cake with a fudgy pecan-studded glaze poured on while it’s still warm. The soda helps keep the crumb tender and adds a subtle caramel note that pairs perfectly with cocoa and cinnamon. It’s baked in a 9×13 pan, so it’s great for potlucks, birthdays, church events, or any time you need a dessert that feeds a crowd. Since the glaze gets poured on hot, there’s no fussy decorating—just slice and serve. It’s especially good slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 3 sticks unsalted butter, divided
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, divided
• 1 1/2 cups Coca-Cola, divided
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 cup chopped pecans

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 13×9-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, sift together the flour, granulated sugar, salt, baking powder, and cinnamon; set aside.
3. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 sticks of butter with 1/4 cup cocoa powder, 1 cup Coca-Cola, and the buttermilk. Cook, stirring, until the mixture comes to a boil.
4. Pour the hot Coke mixture into the flour mixture and stir until combined.
5. Add the eggs and vanilla extract and mix until the batter is smooth.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. During the last 10 minutes of baking, prepare the glaze. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the remaining 1 stick of butter with the remaining 1/4 cup cocoa powder and 1/2 cup Coca-Cola. Bring to a boil, then remove from the heat.
8. Beat in the powdered sugar until smooth, then stir in the chopped pecans.
9. Pour the warm glaze over the hot cake as soon as it comes out of the oven, spreading gently to cover.
10. Let the cake cool slightly so the glaze sets, then slice and serve.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: 430 kcal | Servings: 16

Tips

For the fudgiest texture and best flavor, pour the glaze on while the cake is still hot—this helps it sink in a bit and creates that classic Coca Cola cake “sheet” of icing on top.

Let the cake cool until just slightly warm before cutting so it slices more cleanly; store covered at room temperature for a day or two, or in the fridge for longer, and bring to room temp or warm slightly before serving.

FAQ

Can I use a different soda instead of Coca-Cola?
You can use a similar cola, but Coca-Cola gives the most classic flavor. Diet sodas aren’t recommended for this recipe.

Do I have to add the pecans to the glaze?
No, you can leave them out if you prefer or swap them for walnuts or chopped peanuts.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, it’s great made a day ahead—the glaze sets nicely and the cake stays moist. Just cover tightly once cooled.

Can I freeze Coca Cola Cake?
You can freeze slices well wrapped in plastic and foil; thaw at room temperature before serving.

What should I serve with it?
Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream are perfect, and a sprinkle of extra chopped pecans on top makes it look extra special.