Double Chocolate Coca-Cola Cake with Caramel Pecan and Ganache Layers
ADVERTISEMENT
If you love chocolate cake but crave something truly indulgent, the Double Chocolate Coca-Cola Cake with Caramel Pecan and Ganache Layers is a dessert dream come true. It takes the nostalgic charm of a classic Coca-Cola cake and elevates it with layers of silky ganache and gooey caramel pecans. The result is a showstopping cake that balances sweetness, crunch, and decadence in every bite.
This is not just a cake—it’s an experience. Imagine moist, chocolate-rich layers infused with the subtle sweetness of Coca-Cola, topped with buttery caramelized pecans, and finished with a glossy blanket of chocolate ganache. It’s the perfect dessert for special occasions, holiday tables, or whenever you want to impress.
Why Coca-Cola in Cake?
It may sound unusual, but Coca-Cola has been a Southern baking secret for decades. The soda adds moisture, a gentle sweetness, and a tender crumb to the cake. The carbonation also helps the batter rise, making the texture light yet rich. Combined with cocoa powder, it creates a deep chocolate flavor that pairs beautifully with the caramel and ganache toppings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cake
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups sugar
1 cup Coca-Cola (not diet)
1 cup butter
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup buttermilk
2 large eggs
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Caramel Pecan Layer
1 cup pecans, toasted and chopped
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup heavy cream
Pinch of salt
For the Chocolate Ganache
8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
1 cup heavy cream
1 tbsp butter
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Cake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
In a saucepan, combine Coca-Cola, butter, and cocoa powder. Bring just to a boil, then remove from heat.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour and sugar. Pour the hot Coke mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until smooth.
Add buttermilk, eggs, baking soda, and vanilla. Mix until just combined.
Divide batter evenly between the pans and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool completely.
2. Make the Caramel Pecan Layer
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add brown sugar and heavy cream, whisking until smooth.
Bring to a gentle simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Stir in pecans and a pinch of salt. Let cool slightly before spreading over one cake layer.
3. Make the Ganache
Heat heavy cream in a saucepan until just simmering.
Pour over chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth.
Stir in butter for extra shine. Allow to cool until slightly thickened but still pourable.
4. Assemble the Cake
Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread the caramel pecan mixture evenly over the top.
Place the second cake layer on top.
Pour the ganache over the cake, letting it drip down the sides for a dramatic finish.
Optional: Garnish with extra pecans or a drizzle of caramel.
Tips for Success
Don’t rush cooling: Make sure the cake is completely cooled before adding the caramel and ganache layers.
Toast your pecans: Toasting enhances their nutty flavor and gives them more crunch.
Room temperature ganache: Let the ganache thicken slightly before pouring for the perfect glossy coating.
Storage: This cake keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, though it tastes best at room temperature.
Final Thoughts
The Double Chocolate Coca-Cola Cake with Caramel Pecan and Ganache Layers is a dessert that goes above and beyond. It takes the nostalgic Southern Coca-Cola cake and transforms it into a gourmet masterpiece, blending rich chocolate, buttery caramel, and crunchy pecans with an irresistible ganache finish.
This cake isn’t just for eating—it’s for celebrating. Every slice is pure indulgence, making it the perfect centerpiece for birthdays, dinner parties, or holidays when only the most decadent dessert will do.
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
Comment