Crater Cake With Cola Frosting

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well to ensure all the dry ingredients are evenly incorporated.

3. Add in the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix on medium speed until the batter is smooth and well combined.

4. Stir in the boiling water slowly, as the batter will be thin. This is normal.

5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth out the tops with a spatula.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.

7. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

8. For the Cola Frosting:

9. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add in the cola and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring constantly.

10. Remove the pan from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.

11. Gradually whisk in the powdered sugar until the frosting is smooth and creamy.

12. Let the frosting cool to room temperature, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin from forming.

13. Assembling the Cake:

14. Place one of the cake layers on a serving plate and spread a layer of the cola frosting on top.

15. Carefully place the second cake layer on top and cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting.

16. Use a spoon or spatula to create a 'crater' in the center of the cake to hold the cola drizzle.

17. Drizzle a little extra cola in the crater and let it drip down the sides for a fun and unique look.

18. Garnish with maraschino cherries for a pop of color and a hint of sweetness.