Go Back
Scotch Cake Recipe

Scotch Cake Recipe

This classic Scotch Cake recipe features a tender chocolate base topped with a sweet coconut-pecan icing. It’s rich, moist, and incredibly easy to make, perfect for both everyday treats and special occasions.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Cake, Dessert
Cuisine: American, Southern-Inspired
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

For the Cake

  • 2 cups sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup margarine
  • ½ cup Crisco shortening
  • 5 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup buttermilk
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
For the Icing
  • ½ cup margarine
  • 5 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ½ cup milk
  • 1 lb powdered sugar (10x sugar)
  • 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup pecans (chopped)
  • 1 cup shredded coconut

Video

Notes

Required Kitchen Tools

When baking Scotch Cake, having the right tools ensures smooth preparation and a perfect finish:
  • Mixing Bowls – For combining dry and wet ingredients separately.
  • Saucepan – To boil the margarine, cocoa, and liquid mixture.
  • Hand or Stand Mixer – To blend everything evenly without overmixing.
  • Measuring Cups & Spoons – Accuracy is key for balance in flavor.
  • Spatula – For scraping down the sides of the bowl and smoothing the batter.
  • 13x9-inch Baking Pan – The ideal size for this cake.
  • Wire Rack – To cool the cake before serving.
With these essentials ready, you’ll be all set to create this melt-in-your-mouth chocolate Scotch Cake.