Chocolate Pepsi Cake Recipe

Get ready for a flavor explosion! This unique Chocolate Pepsi Cake is a game-changer. We're taking a classic soda cake and adding unexpected twists with applesauce, ketchup, and maple syrup for a surprisingly delicious depth of flavor. English toffee pieces add the perfect crunch, while the easy-to-follow recipe ensures a decadent treat you'll want to bake again and again. Prepare to be amazed by this easy-to-make cake that tastes even better the next day!

Prep Time 15 mins

Cook Time 65 mins

Calories 508.7 kcal

Protein 8g

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The Forktionary Kitchen Team

Adapted from Food.com, then tested & standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Chocolate Pepsi Cake

1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix
3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter
6 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup applesauce
3 tablespoons ketchup
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3/4 cup Pepsi cola
2 large eggs
1/2 cup buttermilk
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 cup mini marshmallows
2 tablespoons maple syrup
2 cups powdered sugar
1/2 cup chopped English toffee pieces

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How to Make Chocolate Pepsi Cake

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 13x9 inch baking pan.
In a large mixing bowl, pour in 1 box (15.25 oz) of chocolate cake mix.
In a separate bowl, melt 1/2 cup (1 stick) of unsalted butter. Add 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder and whisk until smooth.
Add the melted butter-cocoa mixture to the cake mix.
Add 1/2 cup applesauce, 2 tablespoons ketchup, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1/2 cup Pepsi cola to the bowl. Mix well.
In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup buttermilk and 1 teaspoon baking soda.
Add 2 large eggs to the buttermilk mixture and whisk until combined.
Gradually add the wet ingredients (buttermilk mixture) to the cake batter, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
Gently fold in 1 cup mini marshmallows.
Pour batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
**Make the icing:** In a medium saucepan, melt 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter over medium heat.
Whisk in 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder until smooth.
Stir in 1/4 cup Pepsi cola, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 2 tablespoons maple syrup, and 1 tablespoon ketchup.
Bring to a slow boil, stirring constantly.
Remove from heat and gradually whisk in 2 cups powdered sugar until desired consistency is reached.
Stir in 1/2 cup chopped English toffee pieces.
Pour icing over the cooled cake and spread evenly.
Let the cake stand for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the icing to set.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

26 g

Sugar

244g

Fat

54g

Carbs

26g

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Time To Make Course Preparation Desserts Cakes 4 Hours Or Less

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to make Chocolate Pepsi Cake?

Chocolate Pepsi Cake takes about 80 minutes from start to finish — roughly 15 minutes to prepare and 65 minutes to cook.

How many calories are in Chocolate Pepsi Cake?

Chocolate Pepsi Cake has approximately 508.7 calories per serving, with about 8 g protein, 26 g carbohydrates and 32 g fat.

What ingredients do I need for Chocolate Pepsi Cake?

The key ingredients for Chocolate Pepsi Cake are Yellow Cake Mix, Butter, Cocoa Powder, Applesauce, Ketchup, Vanilla Extract. See the full list with measurements above.