Double Chocolate Cola Layer Cake
This Double Chocolate Cola Layer Cake is a rich, indulgent dessert that delivers deep chocolate flavor with a subtle cola twist. The cola not only enhances the cocoa taste but also creates an incredibly moist, tender crumb, making this cake perfect for celebrations, birthdays, or anytime you want to impress.
This recipe quickly became a favorite after I first tested it as a way to elevate my classic chocolate cakes. The combination of bold chocolate and gentle cola undertones creates a truly unforgettable flavor pairing.
Why This Recipe Works
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Cola enhances the chocolate flavor without overpowering it
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Oil and butter ensure a soft, moist texture
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Cocoa and sugar create deep, balanced sweetness
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Simple ingredients deliver bakery-style results
Each layer bakes up fluffy yet rich, making the cake ideal for stacking and frosting.
Step-by-Step Cake Making Guide
Ingredients
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1 cup Coca-Cola
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½ cup vegetable oil
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1 stick butter
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3 tablespoons cocoa powder
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2 cups sugar
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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½ teaspoon salt
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2 eggs
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½ cup buttermilk
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1 teaspoon baking soda
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two round cake pans.
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In a saucepan over medium heat, combine Coca-Cola, oil, butter, and cocoa powder. Stir and bring to a gentle boil. Remove from heat and cool slightly.
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In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, and salt.
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Pour the warm cola mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
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In another bowl, whisk eggs, buttermilk, baking soda, and vanilla.
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Add the egg mixture to the batter and mix just until combined and lump-free.
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Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
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Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Frost with your favorite chocolate frosting or a cocoa-cola glaze.
Double Chocolate Goodness
For extra indulgence:
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Fold chocolate chips into the batter
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Use a thick chocolate buttercream between layers
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Finish with a glossy chocolate glaze
This cake is rich without being heavy and slices beautifully.
Decorating Tips
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Top with fresh berries for contrast and color
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Add chocolate curls or shavings for elegance
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Dust lightly with cocoa powder or powdered sugar
Simple decorations allow the cake’s flavor to shine.
Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving)
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Calories: 320
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Total Fat: 15 g
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Saturated Fat: 8 g
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Cholesterol: 45 mg
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Sodium: 200 mg
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Carbohydrates: 42 g
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Fiber: 2 g
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Sugar: 32 g
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Protein: 4 g
Baking Tips & Troubleshooting
Incorrect Temperature
Always preheat your oven fully. Uneven heat can affect rise and texture.
Overmixing
Mix just until combined to keep the cake tender and soft.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
Storage
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Wrap cake tightly to prevent drying
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Store in an airtight container
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Refrigerate leftovers for up to 5 days
Serving
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Bring to room temperature before serving
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Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
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Drizzle with warm chocolate sauce for extra indulgence
Flavor Variations
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Add espresso powder to intensify chocolate flavor
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Try peppermint or almond extract for a twist
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Garnish with caramel drizzle or chopped nuts
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of chocolate works best?
Both dark and milk chocolate work well. Dark chocolate gives a richer flavor, while milk chocolate is sweeter.
Can I use diet cola?
Yes, though the flavor may be slightly less rich.
Can this cake be frozen?
Absolutely. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Is this cake vegan?
Not as written, but it can be adapted using plant-based milk, butter, egg substitutes, and dairy-free chocolate.
Final Thoughts
This Double Chocolate Cola Layer Cake is moist, flavorful, and wonderfully indulgent. With its deep chocolate richness and subtle cola notes, it’s a show-stopping dessert that’s easy to make and impossible to forget.
