Pin A nostalgic sheet cake inspired by the flavors of a classic ice cream soda float, combining a light, airy cake with a creamy soda-flavored frosting.
This cake reminds me of summer picnics with family, where soda floats were always a favorite treat. We loved layering the flavors to recreate that old-fashioned soda shop taste at home.
Ingredients
- Dry Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups (315 g) all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 cups (300 g) granulated sugar, 2 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp fine salt
- Wet Ingredients: 1 cup (240 ml) soda (cream soda or root beer, chilled and flat), 3/4 cup (170 g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled, 3 large eggs, at room temperature, 2 tsp vanilla extract
- Frosting: 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened, 3 cups (360 g) powdered sugar, sifted, 1/4 cup (60 ml) soda (same as for cake, chilled and flat), 1/4 cup (60 ml) heavy cream, 1/2 tsp vanilla extract, Pinch of salt
- 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 wet and dry:
- 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 the cake:
- Cool the cake completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- 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.
- Serve:
- Slice and serve.
Pin My kids now love to add their own toppings, piling on cherries and sprinkles just like we used to. Making this cake together has become one of our favorite kitchen traditions.
Required Tools
9x13-inch (23x33 cm) sheet pan, Mixing bowls, Whisk, Electric mixer (for frosting), Spatula
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), eggs, and dairy (milk, butter, heavy cream). Check soda and toppings for potential allergens if using different brands.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories: 390, Total Fat: 17 g, Carbohydrates: 58 g, Protein: 4 g
Pin Enjoy a slice fresh for a nostalgic treat or bring to your next gathering to delight everyone.