If you’re hunting for the ultimate low-effort, high-reward dessert, look no further than this Soda Cake Recipe! Imagine a ridiculously moist, tender cake that comes together with only two basic pantry staples—it’s practically magic. This is the kind of recipe that brings everyone to the table, from busy parents to novice bakers and even those dealing with food allergies. Whether you want a cheerful bake for a party or a fun rainy-day kitchen experiment, this Soda Cake Recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and you’ll love how deliciously versatile it is.
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
Cake:
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) cake mix (any flavor)
- 1 can (12 ounces) soda (regular, not diet)
Additional:
- cooking spray or butter for greasing pan
- optional frosting or whipped topping for serving
How to Make Soda Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F—this helps the cake rise beautifully with an even golden top. Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or butter, making sure to cover every corner so your cake releases effortlessly after baking.
Step 2: Mix Cake Batter
Pour the entire box of dry cake mix into a large mixing bowl. Add the can of soda (no eggs, oil, or water needed!). Stir with a spatula or whisk until the mixture is smooth with no big lumps left. It’ll fizz and smell amazing as the soda combines with the mix—kids love helping with this part!
Step 3: Pour and Spread
Transfer the bubbly batter into your prepared baking dish. Gently spread the mixture evenly, coaxing it into the corners so the cake bakes up flat and picture-perfect. The batter will look slightly thicker than usual, but trust the process.
Step 4: Bake
Slide your baking dish into the preheated oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma will tip you off—the cake is done when it looks set and slightly springs back to the touch.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Let your Soda Cake cool completely in the pan to lock in moisture. Once cooled, slice it into squares and get creative with toppings! Spread a swoop of frosting or a cloud of whipped topping for extra decadence.
How to Serve Soda Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Dress up your Soda Cake Recipe with a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce, or fresh berries for a pop of color and contrast. Sprinkles make everything more festive, especially if you’re celebrating something special.
Side Dishes
This cake is pure comfort alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a mug of hot coffee, or a tall glass of cold milk. Fruity sides like a berry medley or citrus salad brighten up the plate for summer gatherings.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the cake into fun shapes with cookie cutters for birthdays and holidays, or turn slices into decadent ice cream sandwiches. Serve mini cubes on skewers for party dessert kabobs—the options are endless!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Soda Cake Recipe keeps beautifully at room temperature in an airtight container for up to three days. If frosted or topped with whipped cream, store in the fridge to maintain that perfect texture.
Freezing
Want to save cake for later? You definitely can! Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature whenever a craving hits.
Reheating
If you like your cake warm, pop a slice in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. It’ll taste deliciously fresh and soft—just be careful with frosted pieces, as toppings may melt.
FAQs
Can I use any soda flavor for the Soda Cake Recipe?
Absolutely! The fun part is matching different sodas with your cake mix—cola with chocolate, lemon-lime with vanilla or white cake, or even orange soda with spice mix. Let your imagination run wild!
Why can’t I use diet soda?
Diet sodas don’t react the same way due to artificial sweeteners, which can impact both texture and rise. For the best results, always stick with regular, full-sugar soda in this recipe.
Is this really an egg-free cake?
Yes, and it’s a lifesaver for anyone with egg allergies or when the egg carton is empty! The soda delivers enough lift and structure to keep the Soda Cake Recipe perfectly soft and tender.
Does this work with gluten-free cake mix?
It sure does! Simply substitute your favorite certified gluten-free boxed cake mix, and you’ll still get an amazing texture and flavor without any compromise.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
Look for a golden top and gently press the center—it should spring back. The classic toothpick test works too: if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your Soda Cake Recipe is perfectly baked.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Soda Cake Recipe enough—the simplicity, versatility, and pure nostalgic fun make it a staple in my kitchen. Give it a try, play around with flavors, and watch how it brings everyone together for a sweet, memorable treat!
Print
Soda Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Soda Cake recipe is a quick and easy dessert that requires only two ingredients: cake mix and soda. Perfect for when you need a simple yet delicious treat in a pinch.
Ingredients
Cake:
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) cake mix (any flavor)
- 1 can (12 ounces) soda (regular, not diet)
Additional:
- cooking spray or butter for greasing pan
- optional frosting or whipped topping for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Mix the batter: In a large bowl, combine the dry cake mix and soda. Stir until smooth and well combined.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 25–30 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and serve: Let the cake cool completely in the pan before slicing and serving. Add frosting or whipped topping if desired.
Notes
- Use lemon-lime soda with white or yellow cake mix, cola with chocolate cake mix, or orange soda with spice cake mix for fun flavor variations.
- This recipe is egg-free, making it suitable for those with allergies or when you’re running low on ingredients.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 270mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
