Save A whimsical, retro-inspired dessert that combines classic vanilla cake with a fizzy soda float twist, baked into a bubbly, soft treat. Perfect for parties and guaranteed to delight kids and adults alike.
I first made this Silly Cake Soda Float Bake for my niece's birthday party, and it was the hit of the day. The bubbly float top paired with soft vanilla cake brought back memories of soda shop celebrations from childhood.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups (250 g)
- Granulated sugar: 1 cup (200 g)
- Baking powder: 2 tsp
- Baking soda: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: 1/4 tsp
- Unsalted butter (melted and cooled): 1/2 cup (115 g)
- Eggs: 2 large
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
- Whole milk: 1 cup (240 ml)
- Lemon-lime soda (e.g., Sprite or 7UP): 1 cup (240 ml)
- Vanilla ice cream (softened): 1 1/2 cups (250 g)
- Whipped cream: For serving
- Maraschino cherries: For garnish
- Rainbow sprinkles: Optional
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Dish:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- 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 melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk until well combined.
- Combine Batter:
- Gradually add wet ingredients to dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix.
- Transfer Batter:
- Pour batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare Soda Float Layer:
- In a medium bowl, gently mix lemon-lime soda and softened vanilla ice cream until mostly smooth. Bubbles are okay.
- Add Float Layer:
- Pour soda-ice cream mixture evenly over cake batter. Do not stir; the mixture will bubble and create a float effect as it bakes.
- Bake:
- Bake for 35 minutes, or until top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. A few moist crumbs are okay due to the float layer.
- Cool:
- Remove from oven and allow to cool for 15 minutes.
- Serve:
- Serve warm or at room temperature, topped with whipped cream, a maraschino cherry, and sprinkles if desired.
Save This was the star of our Sunday family dinner, and even the grown-ups couldn't resist seconds. Watching the kids marvel at the bubbly top was a moment I'll never forget.
Required Tools
You'll need a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish, mixing bowls, whisk, measuring cups and spoons, and a spatula for this recipe.
Allergen Information
This dessert contains wheat (gluten), eggs, and dairy. If you have sensitivities, check all ingredient labels for hidden allergens or choose alternatives as needed.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 360, Total Fat: 14 g, Carbohydrates: 54 g, Protein: 5 g
Save Serve warm for that fresh soda float vibe. Enjoy every bubbly, creamy bite—it's pure joy in a pan.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use another soda flavor?
Absolutely! Orange or grape soda can be substituted, adding unique flavors and color. Try pairing with different ice creams for fun combinations.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Leftover portions can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days, maintaining freshness and texture.
- → Is it possible to make a dairy-free version?
Yes, simply swap standard milk, butter, and ice cream for plant-based alternatives to create a dairy-free treat.
- → Why shouldn't I stir the soda-ice cream layer?
Leaving the soda-ice cream mixture unstirred allows a fun float effect as bubbles rise through the cake during baking, creating a tender texture.
- → What toppings complement this dessert?
Whipped cream, maraschino cherries, and rainbow sprinkles add both flavor and flair. Feel free to use fruit or chocolate shavings for variety.
- → Can I bake in another dish size?
A different size can be used, though baking time may vary. Monitor closely for desired doneness and adjust time as needed.