Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup butter
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup cola soft drink
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Cola Frosting
- ½ cup butter
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 6 tablespoons cola
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pan
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
3. Heat the Chocolate Mixture
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter, cocoa powder, and cola. Stir until the butter is melted and the mixture just begins to simmer.
4. Combine the Batter
Pour the hot chocolate mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until mostly combined. Add the buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla, then mix until smooth.
5. Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
6. Make the Frosting
While the cake bakes, melt the butter in a saucepan. Stir in the cocoa powder and cola, bringing the mixture just to a simmer. Remove from the heat and whisk in the vanilla and powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in the pecans if desired.
7. Frost the Cake
As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, pour the warm frosting evenly over the hot cake. Spread it gently with a spatula so it melts into the surface.
8. Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving.