Cherry Cola Chocolate Cake
Are you ready for a delightful twist on a classic dessert? This Cherry Cola Chocolate Cake is not only rich and moist, but it also brings a refreshing pop of flavor from the cherry cola. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or simply indulging when you crave something sweet, this cake combines the deep chocolate you love with the fun fizz of cola. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this unique dessert!
Why make this recipe?
This Cherry Cola Chocolate Cake stands out because of its perfect balance between rich chocolate flavor and sweet cherry notes. The use of cherry cola adds a unique twist that your friends and family will surely talk about. Plus, it’s relatively easy to make and comes together with simple ingredients you might already have in your pantry.
How to prepare Cherry Cola Chocolate Cake
Ingredients:
- 2 cups (260 g) all-purpose flour 🌾
- 1 3⁄4 cups (350 g) white sugar 🍚
- 3⁄4 cup (75 g) unsweetened cocoa powder 🍫
- 1 1⁄2 teaspoons baking powder 🔼
- 1 1⁄2 teaspoons baking soda 🔽
- 1⁄2 teaspoon fine salt 🧂
- 2 large eggs 🥚
- 1 cup (240 ml) cherry cola (Coca-Cola Cherry or equivalent) 🥤
- 1 cup (240 ml) melted butter 🧈
- 1⁄2 cup (120 ml) vegetable oil 🌻
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 🍦
- 1⁄2 cup (120 ml) hot coffee or hot water ☕
- 1 cup (225 g) softened butter 🧈
- 3 cups (360 g) powdered sugar ❄️
- 1⁄2 cup (50 g) cocoa powder 🍫
- 3–4 tablespoons cherry cola 🥤
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 🍦
- A pinch of salt 🧂
- Optional: maraschino cherries or fresh cherries 🍒
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, white sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and fine salt until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, cherry cola, melted butter, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and hot coffee or water.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until everything is well blended and smooth.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove from pans and transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
- For the frosting, beat the softened butter in a bowl until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and cherry cola, mixing until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
- Once the cakes are completely cooled, spread a layer of frosting between the two cake layers and then frost the top and sides of the cake.
- Decorate with maraschino cherries or fresh cherries as desired.
How to serve Cherry Cola Chocolate Cake
Slice the cake into generous portions and serve it at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an added treat! 🍰🍦
How to store Cherry Cola Chocolate Cake
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it fresh for longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. You can also freeze slices for up to 3 months—just make sure to wrap them well! ❄️
Tips for preparing Cherry Cola Chocolate Cake
- Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Grease your cake pans well to prevent sticking.
- Adjust the amount of cherry cola in the frosting for your desired consistency and flavor.
Variations
- Use diet cherry cola for a lighter version of the cake.
- Add chocolate chips to the batter for an extra chocolaty experience.
- Create a layer of cherry jam or fresh cherries between the cake layers for added flavor and texture.
FAQs
1. Can I use regular cola instead of cherry cola?
Yes, you can! While it won’t have the same cherry flavor, regular cola will still work well in this recipe.
2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and store it well covered until you’re ready to frost and serve.
3. Can I use gluten-free flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, keeping in mind that texture and flavor may vary slightly.
Enjoy baking and indulging in this delicious Cherry Cola Chocolate Cake! 🍰🎉