• by Teresa Buyikian , September 20, 2024

Although it may seem like the Cracker Barrel Old Country Store has been around forever with its ubiquitous rocking chairs and trinket-filled restaurants, the chain only turns 55 this year.

To celebrate, the restaurant has announced that customers will be the recipients of the gifts this year, giving customers (and employees) free slices of Cracker Barrel’s Double Chocolate Fudge Coca-Cola Cake.

The chain’s famous cake was originally a fortunate accident. While testing desserts in 1997, the cocoa powder for this particular cake was accidentally doubled, resulting in the super-rich dessert offered for a limited time. An updated version returned in 2009 and was subsequently added to the permanent menu. The chain states it sells over 1.2 million slices of the decadent dessert per year.

“For this milestone birthday, we want to show our genuine appreciation for those people who have helped bring the brand to life over the decades, allowing us to welcome future generations in to forge their own memories around our table," said Sarah Moore, Cracker Barrel's CMO in a release.

Rewards members get extra perks, including free bottomless or "all you can hold" coffee and iced tea with a minimum purchase. Both items were on the chain’s original vintage barrel-printed menu in 1969. The brand sells over 44 million cups of coffee and tea annually.

Customers can track additional upcoming promotions for Cracker Barrel’s birthday via the brand’s social media platforms.