Chocolate cake with Coca-Cola, oil and kefir
Rich, moist, and intensely chocolaty—this Chocolate Cake with Coca-Cola, Oil, and Kefir is an indulgent dessert that surprises with both its unique ingredients and unforgettable flavor. Originating from the realm of creative baking where soda often plays a mysterious but effective role, this cake is a celebration of moisture, depth, and that irresistible fudgy texture that chocolate lovers crave. Despite the inclusion of Coca-Cola, the final product doesn't carry a distinct soda taste; rather, it subtly boosts the texture and complements the cocoa, creating an incredibly tender crumb.
This dessert sits somewhere between a classic American sheet cake and a brownie—dense, yet soft, with a glossy chocolate glaze that locks in the richness. Perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or a comforting weekend bake, this cake requires no fancy techniques, just simple pantry ingredients and a bit of curiosity. It’s a recipe meant for those unafraid of sugar, those who know that sometimes joy comes in the form of a decadent slice of cake shared with friends or savored in silence.
Possible ingredient alternatives
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- Flour: You may substitute all-purpose flour with cake flour for an even softer texture.
- Sugar: Use light brown sugar for a deeper, caramel-like sweetness.
- Kefir: Can be replaced with buttermilk or natural yogurt if needed.
- Butter: Margarine or plant-based butter can be used for a dairy-free version.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: Dutch-processed cocoa is an excellent alternative for a darker color and smoother taste.
- Coca-Cola: Pepsi or any regular cola can be used in a pinch, but avoid diet or zero-sugar versions as the chemistry will differ.
- Powdered sugar: Can be replaced with a sugar-free powdered sweetener if reducing sugar content.
Best cooking tips for the recipe
- Always use room temperature ingredients. This ensures even mixing and a smooth batter.
- Do not overmix the batter. Mix until just combined to avoid a tough texture.
- Sift the dry ingredients before adding to the wet mixture to prevent lumps and create a finer crumb.
- Pour the glaze while the cake is still warm. This allows it to soak slightly into the cake, enhancing moisture.
- Chill before slicing. Cooling the cake in the fridge makes it easier to cut into neat squares and intensifies the flavor.
Ingredients
- Flour: 230 grams
- Sugar: 350 grams
- Baking powder: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: a pinch
- Eggs (large): 2
- Kefir: 130 grams
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
- Butter (unsalted, room temperature): 113 grams
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: 50 grams
- Oil (neutral, such as sunflower or canola): 120 grams
- Coca-Cola: 250 grams
- Powdered sugar: 340 grams
- Butter (unsalted): 113 grams
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: 25 grams
- Coca-Cola: 80 grams
For the cake batter:
For the glaze:
- 1. Cream the butter with the sugar until it becomes pale, fluffy, and light in texture—this process aerates the base for a moist cake.
- 2. Incorporate the eggs, one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition to ensure the batter is smooth.
- 3. Add the unsweetened cocoa powder, salt, vanilla extract, oil, and kefir. Blend the mixture until everything is fully integrated and the batter is silky.
- 4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet batter, stirring gently to avoid overworking the mixture.
- 5. Slowly pour in the Coca-Cola, mixing just until the batter reaches a uniform consistency. The cola may fizz slightly—this is normal and helps give the cake its fluffy rise.
- 6. Line a baking tray with parchment paper, then pour the batter evenly into the tray, smoothing out the top with a spatula.
- 7. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (356°F) for about 30 minutes. To test doneness, insert a wooden skewer into the center of the cake; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- 8. Prepare the glaze while the cake is baking. In a heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water, melt the butter gently. Add the powdered sugar and stir until smooth.
- 9. Stir in the cocoa powder and Coca-Cola, continuing to mix over low heat until the glaze becomes glossy and pourable. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- 10. Once the cake is out of the oven, pour the warm glaze evenly over the still-warm cake. Allow the glaze to settle and slightly soak into the cake.
- 11. Transfer the cake to the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour to set the glaze and firm up the texture.
- 12. Once chilled, slice the cake into 12 equal squares. Serve as is, or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
- 13. Note: I found this recipe on YouTube, in case you're interested in the making process, I've pinned the video below.
Recipe Directions
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