Save It 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 recipe instantly brought back childhood memories of sharing soda floats with friends at summer parties. Creating it felt like revisiting old favorites in a fun, new way.
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)
- Unsalted butter, melted and cooled: 3/4 cup (170 g)
- Large eggs, at room temperature: 3
- Vanilla extract: 2 tsp
- Unsalted butter, softened (for frosting): 1/2 cup (115 g)
- Powdered sugar, sifted: 3 cups (360 g)
- Soda (same as for cake, chilled and flat): 1/4 cup (60 ml)
- Heavy cream: 1/4 cup (60 ml)
- Vanilla extract (for frosting): 1/2 tsp
- Pinch of salt (for frosting):
- Maraschino cherries (optional topping):
- Rainbow sprinkles (optional topping):
- Whipped cream (optional topping):
Instructions
- Prep 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 batters:
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Bake the cake:
- 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 completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Make 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 the cake:
- Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Garnish with maraschino cherries, sprinkles, and dollops of whipped cream, if desired. Slice and serve.
Save It My family loves finishing this cake together after a backyard dinner, each picking their favorite toppings to create the ultimate float experience.
Required Tools
You'll need a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) sheet pan, mixing bowls, whisk, electric mixer for frosting, and spatula for spreading.
Allergen Information
Contains wheat, eggs, and dairy. Check soda and toppings for allergens if using different brands.
Nutritional Information
Each serving is about 390 calories with 17 g total fat, 58 g carbohydrates, and 4 g protein.
Save It This sheet cake is the perfect treat for birthdays or casual gatherings. Enjoy a slice and savor sweet soda nostalgia.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → Which type of soda is best to use?
Cream soda or root beer work well, providing sweet and distinctive float flavors.
- → Can I substitute butter for oil?
Butter gives rich flavor and moist texture. Oil can be used, but the taste will differ.
- → Is the soda supposed to be flat?
Yes, let the soda go flat before mixing. This prevents excess bubbles in the batter.
- → How do I make the frosting fluffy?
Beat softened butter first, then add sugar and liquids gradually. Whip until light and creamy.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Keep sheet cake covered at room temperature for up to two days to maintain freshness.
- → Can I add other toppings?
Absolutely! Try crushed nuts, mini marshmallows, or shaved chocolate for extra flair.