Cocoa Cola Cake

Who doesn't like Coca Cola?  Anyone?  Well, if you don't then you make up for the odd one out.  Don't worry.  The taste of the cola is not strong in the cake but there is a mild taste of the cola in the icing.  When I asked my kids if they'd like coca cola cake, you know what their reaction were.

Actually I already knew what their answer would be..and I've to admit that I am curious on how the cake tastes like.  I have my reservations when I read the recipe but then, why not give it a try.  As usual, I've to adjust the sugar content as the cola is already sweet.  Don't want it too sweet that you don't get to taste the cake except sugar.

The cake itself doesn't taste much like cola but the fizzy liquid gives a certain boost of moisture and lightness to the cake.  Topped with marshmallows and then coated with chocolate cola frosting, oohh i tell you, it's just awesome.  This cake is now added to the family's list of 'favorite cakes baked by mom'!

2 cups all purpose flour
1 3/4 cup granulated sugar (reduce to 3/4 cup if plan to top with icing. If without icing, reduce to 1 cup)
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder - not Dutch process)
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
2 large eggs
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup buttermilk
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup cola flavored soda, at room temperature
1 1/2 cup chopped toasted pecans (optional)

Pre heat oven to 180dC, prepare 13 by 9 inch metal baking pan

1. In large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar,cocoa powder, baking soda and salt.
2. Add eggs, butter, buttermilk and vanilla to flour mixture. Using electric mixer on medium-low speed, beat for 2 mins. Add cola and beat on low speed for 30 seconds. Gently stir in marsmallows.
3. Spread batter in pan and bake for 30-35mins (mine is done after 1 hour as the batter is quite thin and takes longer time to bake). Let cool on wire rack.  Once cooled, spread icing over top and sprinkle with pecans.

Cola Icing
Makes 2 1/4 cups (550ml)

1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
1/3 cup cola flavor soda
3 1/2 cups confectioners sugar (i reduced to 3/4 cup which is already sweet.  If too runny, chill it until it thickens)
1 tbsp vanilla extract

In medium saucepan, combine cocoa powder, butter and cola. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until butter melts and mixture is smooth. Remove from heat and stir in sugar and vanilla until blended and smooth.

This is an awesome cake!