As a self-proclaimed cake connoisseur, I’m always on the hunt for inventive, quirky, and downright delicious recipes to shake up my dessert game. And, just as a painter would be enthralled by an unexpected color blend, I was completely taken aback by the unique fusion of cherry and cola in a cake! I mean, who would’ve thought that a popular soda drink and a common fruit could create such a tantalizing treat?
Is there anything more comforting and nostalgic than the flavors of cherry and cola? It’s like a childhood summer packed into a cake form. But how does this unique cake fare in terms of taste and texture? Is it a soda-fountain fantasy or a dessert dystopia? Well, you’ll just have to read on (and perhaps even bake one yourself) to find out!
The Origin of Cherry Cola Cake
The cherry cola cake is something of a southern classic. It’s a staple in many homes, particularly during the holiday season. Its unique flavor profile combines the sweetness of cherries with the robust, caramel-like taste of cola, resulting in a taste explosion that’s truly unlike any other.
While it might seem like an odd combination, cherry and cola have long been paired in the beverage world. The idea to incorporate these flavors into a cake simply takes this beloved duo to a new level. And trust me, once you’ve tried it, you’ll understand why it’s a favorite.
A Flavor Profile Like No Other
Cherry cola cake is a delicious symphony of flavors that manages to hit all the right notes. The rich, moist chocolate cake base blends perfectly with the cherry and cola flavors, making every bite a delightful experience.
The cola gives the cake a deep, nuanced flavor that’s nothing like the overly sweet, artificial taste you might expect. Instead, it enhances the chocolate and cherry notes, making them all the more vibrant and exciting. It’s a harmonious blend of flavors that works deliciously well.
The Cherry on Top: The Frosting
And let’s not forget about the frosting. The cherry cola frosting ties everything together. It’s creamy, it’s luscious, and it’s filled with the bright, tangy flavor of cherries and the undercurrent of cola sweetness.
This is where the cherry cola cake shines. The frosting is its crowning glory, providing not only an additional layer of flavor but also a beautiful contrast in texture. The creaminess of the frosting against the moist, tender crumb of the cake is just heavenly.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 2 cups of sugar
- 1 cup of unsalted butter
- 1 cup of cola soda
- 3 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup of buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon of baking soda
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 can (21 oz) of cherry pie filling
- For the frosting: 1/2 cup of butter, 1/3 cup of cola soda, 3 tablespoons of cocoa powder, 1 package (16 oz) of powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a saucepan, combine sugar, butter, cola, and cocoa powder. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly, then remove from heat.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour and baking soda. Gradually add to the cola mixture, stirring well.
- Add buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract to the mixture and mix well.
- Stir in the cherry pie filling. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- While the cake is baking, prepare the frosting: In a saucepan, combine butter, cola, and cocoa powder. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat. Gradually stir in powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing well until smooth.
- Once the cake is done, remove from oven and while still hot, spread the frosting over the cake.
- Allow the cake to cool before serving.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Tips for Cherry Cola Cake
For a more intense cherry flavor, add a teaspoon of cherry extract to the cake batter. If you want your frosting to be thicker, add more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency. Also, make sure to frost the cake while it’s still hot. This allows the frosting to seep into the cake, making it extra moist and flavorful.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
Cherry cola cake is a taste adventure. It’s a unique fusion of flavors that’s both nostalgic and exciting. It’s perfect for those who love to experiment with their baking and surprise their taste buds. It’s a tribute to classic southern cooking, but with a fun twist. Plus, it’s a great conversation starter at any gathering!
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 450 kcal per serving