This ultra-moist chocolate cake starts with a boxed mix but tastes completely homemade thanks to a secret ingredient (Coca-Cola!) and a rich, fudgy frosting that pours over the warm cake.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate fudge cake mix
- 1 small box (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix
- 3 large eggs
- ⅓ cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup Coca-Cola (or any cola)
For the Frosting
- ½ cup (1 stick) salted butter
- 3 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 4-6 tbsp heavy cream (adjust for thickness)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
(Serve with vanilla ice cream for the ultimate pairing!)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Cake
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch pan.
- In a bowl, beat cake mix + pudding mix + eggs + oil + Coke for 2 mins until smooth.
- Pour into pan; bake 35-40 mins (toothpick should come out clean).
2. Make the Frosting (Start when cake has 10 mins left!)
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium-low heat.
- Whisk in cocoa + 4 tbsp cream until smooth.
- Remove from heat; stir in powdered sugar + vanilla. Add extra cream if too thick.
3. Frost & Serve
- Pour warm frosting over the warm cake; spread evenly.
- Sprinkle with nuts (if using).
- Serve with vanilla ice cream for maximum indulgence!
FAQs & Tips
Q: Can I use diet Coke?
✅ Yes, but the texture may be slightly less tender.
Q: Why is there a dip in the cake?
➡️ Normal! The pudding mix creates a dense, fudgy center.
Q: Can I make this in layers?
✅ Yes! Use two 9-inch round pans; bake 25-30 mins.
Q: How to store leftovers?
- Room temp: 2 days (covered).
- Fridge: 1 week (microwave slices for 10 secs to soften).
Q: Can I skip the nuts?
✅ Absolutely! Or swap for chocolate chips or sprinkles.
Why You’ll Love This Cake
✨ One-bowl easy (thanks to the boxed mix hack!)
✨ The Coke adds moisture and a subtle caramel note
✨ That frosting is like liquid fudge
Nutrition (per slice): ~418 kcal | Servings: 12
This retro-inspired cake is perfect for potlucks, birthdays, or anytime you need chocolate therapy! 😍
Pro Tip: For extra decadence, drizzle with caramel sauce before serving! 🍯
