Root Beer Float Cake Recipe

Root Beer Float Cake captures the nostalgic flavors of a classic root beer float in a delightful and moist cake. This cake combines the rich, creamy taste of vanilla with the unique, slightly spicy flavor of root beer, creating a dessert that’s both fun and flavorful. Perfect for summer gatherings, birthday parties, or whenever you’re craving something a little different, this cake is sure to bring smiles and satisfy sweet cravings.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 box (15.25 oz) vanilla cake mix
• 1 cup root beer (not diet)
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon root beer extract (optional for extra flavor)

For the Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons root beer
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1-2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk (as needed)

For Decoration (Optional):

• Maraschino cherries
• Root beer candies
• Whipped cream

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
2. Mix Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the vanilla cake mix, root beer, vegetable oil, eggs, and root beer extract (if using). Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes, until the batter is smooth and well combined.
3. Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
4. Cool: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Frosting

1. Beat Butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
2. Add Powdered Sugar and Flavorings: Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add the root beer and vanilla extract, beating until smooth and creamy. If the frosting is too thick, add heavy cream or milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake

1. Layer Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a layer of frosting over the top.
2. Add Second Layer: Place the second cake layer on top of the first. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.

Step 4: Decorate and Serve

1. Decorate: If desired, decorate the cake with maraschino cherries, root beer candies, or swirls of whipped cream.
2. Serve: Slice the cake and serve. Enjoy the nostalgic and delightful flavors of a root beer float in cake form!

Tips for the Perfect Root Beer Float Cake

• Extra Root Beer Flavor: For a stronger root beer flavor, add root beer extract to both the cake batter and the frosting.
• Chilling the Cake: If the frosting becomes too soft, chill the cake in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving to firm up the frosting.
• Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Root Beer Float Cake is a fun and flavorful dessert that brings the beloved flavors of a root beer float to a delicious cake. Its moist, tender layers and creamy frosting make it a delightful treat for any occasion. Enjoy this creative twist on a classic favorite!