My Southern mom handed this down, and my kids can't get enough!

This Southern Soda Chocolate Cake is a delightful fusion of classic Southern flavors and rich chocolate indulgence. Originating from the Southern United States, this cake is known for its unique use of Coca Cola, which adds a distinct depth and moistness to the dessert. It's a perfect treat for those who appreciate a twist on traditional chocolate cake. The combination of cola and cocoa creates a flavor profile that's both nostalgic and novel, making it a must-try for any baking enthusiast.

This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance its rich chocolatey flavor. For a complete Southern dessert experience, serve it alongside a glass of sweet tea or a cup of freshly brewed coffee. The cake's sweetness also complements a light fruit salad, providing a refreshing contrast.

Servings: 12

2 cups of flour
2 cups of sugar
1 teaspoon of baking soda
1/2 teaspoon of salt
1 cup of butter
1/4 cup of cocoa powder
1 cup of Coca Cola
1/2 cup of buttermilk
2 eggs
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups of mini marshmallows
1/2 cup of butter (for frosting)
1/4 cup of cocoa powder (for frosting)
1/2 cup of Coca Cola (for frosting)
4 cups of confectioners' sugar
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (for frosting)
1 cup of chopped pecans (optional)

Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9x13 inch pan.

In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.

In a saucepan, melt 1 cup of butter, then add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder and 1 cup of Coca Cola. Bring this mixture to a boil.

Pour the hot mixture over the dry ingredients and mix well until combined.

In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract.

Add the buttermilk mixture to the batter and mix until smooth.

Fold in the mini marshmallows.

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

For the frosting, melt 1/2 cup of butter in a saucepan, then add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder and 1/2 cup of Coca Cola. Bring to a boil.

Remove from heat and whisk in the confectioners' sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. Optionally, stir in the chopped pecans.

Pour the frosting over the hot cake and let it cool before serving.

For a different flavor profile, try using root beer or Dr. Pepper instead of Coca Cola for a unique twist. You can also add a teaspoon of cinnamon to the batter for a hint of spice. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the pecans from the frosting. For a more decadent cake, consider adding a layer of chocolate ganache between the cake and frosting.