Go Back

Cracker Barrel Chocolate Cake

Helen T. Patterson
Recreate the famous Cracker Barrel Double Chocolate Fudge Coca-Cola Cake at home with this easy-to-follow recipe!
This moist, fudgy chocolate cake, made with a secret ingredient—Coca-Cola—is topped with a rich, velvety chocolate frosting.
Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or whenever you crave a decadent chocolate treat.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Calories: 420 kcal, Total Fat: 18g, Saturated Fat: 10g, Cholesterol: 60mg, Sodium: 220mg, Total Carbohydrates: 63g, Sugars: 45g, Dietary Fiber: 2g, Protein: 4g, Calcium: 6% DV, Iron: 10% DV
Estimated based on one serving (assuming 12 servings per batch)
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 servings
Calories 390 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 large mixing bowl
  • 1 medium saucepan
  • 1 Electric Mixer or Whisk
  • 1 9x13-inch baking pan
  • (1) Rubber spatula
  • 1 Wire cooling rack

Ingredients
  

For the Cake:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup Coca-Cola
  • 1 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Frosting:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Oven & Pan

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan with butter or non-stick spray and dust lightly with flour.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
  • In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, then stir in the Coca-Cola. Remove from heat before it boils.
  • Pour the butter-Coca-Cola mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until combined.
  • Add the buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract, then mix until smooth. Do not overmix.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

  • Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth it out evenly.
  • Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  • Remove from the oven and let the cake cool slightly.

Step 4: Make the Frosting

  • In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and stir in cocoa powder.
  • Add milk and vanilla extract, then whisk in powdered sugar until smooth.

Step 5: Frost & Serve

  • While the cake is still slightly warm, pour the frosting evenly over the top. Let it set for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
  • Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or enjoy as is!

Notes

  • Coca-Cola Alternatives: You can use Dr Pepper or brewed coffee for a slightly different flavor.
  • Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
  • Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Make It Nutty: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the frosting for added crunch.
  • For Extra Moisture: Add an extra 2 tablespoons of Coca-Cola to the batter if you prefer an even softer texture.
Keyword Cracker Barrel Chocolate Cake