Pin it 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 a family movie night, and everyone loved watching the cake bubble up and transform in the oven—it became an instant favorite for celebrations!
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: 1/2 cup (115 g), melted and cooled
- Eggs: 2 large
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
- Whole milk: 1 cup (240 ml)
- Lemon-lime soda: 1 cup (240 ml) (e.g., Sprite or 7UP)
- Vanilla ice cream: 1 1/2 cups (250 g), softened
- Whipped cream: For serving
- Maraschino cherries: For garnish
- Rainbow sprinkles: Optional
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- 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 the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk until well combined.
- Combine Batter:
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined (do not overmix).
- Transfer to Dish:
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare Soda Float:
- In a medium bowl, gently mix the lemon-lime soda with the softened vanilla ice cream until mostly smooth (bubbles are okay).
- Add Float Layer:
- Pour the soda-ice cream mixture evenly over the cake batter. Do not stir; the mixture will bubble and create a float effect as it bakes.
- Bake:
- Bake for 35 minutes, or until the 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 the 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.
Pin it Serving this bake at my cousin's birthday party brought so much joy—kids giggled at the fizzy layers and the adults appreciated the nostalgic twist!
Required Tools
You only need a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish, mixing bowls, whisk, measuring cups, and a spatula to whip up this playful dessert.
Allergen Information
Contains wheat, eggs, and dairy (butter, milk, ice cream). Maraschino cherries could include sulfites or artificial dyes—review labels carefully.
Nutritional Information
Each serving contains about 360 calories, 14 g fat, 54 g carbohydrates, and 5 g protein. These amounts may vary depending on toppings or substitutions.
Pin it The Silly Cake Soda Float Bake is a magical crowd-pleaser with each bubbly bite. Serve it fresh for best results—everyone will want seconds!
Recipe FAQs
- → What gives this dessert its bubbly texture?
The lemon-lime soda combined with vanilla ice cream creates a foamy layer that bubbles as it bakes.
- → Can I make this treat dairy-free?
Yes, substitute plant-based milk, vegan butter, and non-dairy ice cream for a dairy-free option.
- → What alternative flavors work well?
Orange soda pairs with chocolate ice cream for a creamsicle twist, or try other ice cream flavors for variety.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain freshness.
- → Is it best served warm or cold?
Serve the dessert warm or at room temperature for the best texture and flavor experience.
- → Are there any allergen concerns?
This treat contains wheat, eggs, and dairy. Check labels for maraschino cherries if sensitive to sulfites or dyes.