Save A nostalgic sheet cake inspired by the flavors of a classic ice cream soda float, combining a light airy cake with creamy soda-flavored frosting. Perfect for dessert lovers who crave a fun twist on traditional sheet cake recipes.
I remember baking this cake for a family birthday party and everyone loved the surprise of its old-fashioned soda shop taste. The creamy frosting paired with the soft cake brought back sweet childhood memories.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 2 1/2 cups (315 g)
- Granulated sugar: 1 1/2 cups (300 g)
- Baking powder: 2 tsp
- Baking soda: 1/2 tsp
- Fine salt: 1/2 tsp
- Soda (cream soda or root beer, chilled and flat): 1 cup (240 ml) for cake, 1/4 cup (60 ml) for frosting
- Unsalted butter: 3/4 cup (170 g) melted and cooled for cake, 1/2 cup (115 g) softened for frosting
- Large eggs: 3 at room temperature
- Vanilla extract: 2 tsp for cake, 1/2 tsp for frosting
- Powdered sugar: 3 cups (360 g) sifted
- Heavy cream: 1/4 cup (60 ml)
- Pinch of salt: for frosting
- Optional toppings: Maraschino cherries, Rainbow sprinkles, Whipped cream
Instructions
- Prepare the pan:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) sheet pan with parchment paper.
- Mix dry ingredients:
- In a large bowl whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt.
- Mix wet ingredients:
- In a separate bowl whisk together soda, melted butter, eggs and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Combine batter:
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Bake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 28–32 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool:
- Cool the cake completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Make frosting:
- For the frosting beat the softened butter until creamy then gradually add powdered sugar. Mix in soda heavy cream vanilla and salt. Beat until light and fluffy.
- Frost and garnish:
- Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Garnish with maraschino cherries sprinkles and dollops of whipped cream if desired. Slice and serve.
Save This cake is always a hit with my family, especially when we add extra whipped cream and sprinkles for a fun soda shop vibe. Making it together is a sweet way to celebrate birthdays and weekend gatherings.
Required Tools
Use a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) sheet pan, mixing bowls, whisk, electric mixer for frosting and a spatula for spreading.
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), eggs and dairy (milk, butter, heavy cream). Make sure to check soda and toppings for potential allergens if using different brands.
Nutritional Information
Each serving has 390 calories, 17 g total fat, 58 g carbohydrates and 4 g protein.
Save Serve chilled with your favorite toppings for a trip down memory lane. This cake is sure to create smiles and sweet moments at any dessert table.
Recipe Guide
- → How does soda affect the cake's texture?
The soda makes the cake light and airy, adding subtle flavor and contributing to a tender crumb.
- → Can I use root beer instead of cream soda?
Absolutely! Both sodas work well and each offers its own nostalgic flavor to the dessert.
- → Should the soda be flat for baking?
Yes, flat soda blends better into the batter and frosting, preventing extra bubbles or unwanted texture.
- → What toppings can I add for extra flair?
Maraschino cherries, rainbow sprinkles, and whipped cream all add color and a playful touch.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Keep covered at room temperature for up to two days. Refrigerate for longer freshness if desired.
- → Is this dessert suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, all listed ingredients fit a vegetarian diet. Check soda and garnishes for hidden additives.