Easy Root Beer Float Cake Recipe

Easy Root Beer Float Cake is like a sweet trip down memory lane in dessert form. The creamy frosting, resembling the frothy head of a classic float, adds a fun touch to this yummy treat.

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root beer float cake slice on a white plate.

I have to tell you, my first encounter with a root beer float cake was like stumbling upon a hidden treasure in the world of desserts. My son wanted these Root Beer Float Cookies and this cake was next. The cake itself was incredibly moist, and it had this unmistakable root beer kick that was both surprising and delightful. This delicious root beer float cake is the ultimate dessert joyride, and it always leaves a heart full of sweet memories.

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Check out some of our favorite cakes Apple Fritter Cake, Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake, Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake, or Southern Punch Bowl Cake.

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What do I need to make Root Beer Float Cake?
FAQs
Top Tips
How to make Root Beer Float Cake
Easy Root Beer Float Cake Recipe

What do I need to make Root Beer Float Cake?

yellow or white cake mix
root beer
vegetable or canola oil
eggs
vanilla extract
Dream Whip
maraschino cherries for topping

FAQs

What is a Root Beer Float Cake?

A Root Beer Float Cake is a flavorful cake inspired by the classic root beer float. It combines the rich, spicy flavor of root beer with a fluffy cake base, often topped with a root beer glaze or frosting.

Can I use diet root beer?

It is not recommended to use diet root beer as it can affect the flavor and texture of the cake. Use regular root beer for the best results.

Can I make cupcakes instead of a whole cake?

Yes, you can make cupcakes with the same batter. Line a muffin tin with paper liners and fill each about ⅔ full with batter. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Top Tips

If you want even more root beer flavor, change the vanilla extract to root beer extract or a combination of both.
Ensure your eggs are at room temperature before baking. This helps with better incorporation and a fluffier texture.
Be careful not to overmix the cake batter, as it can lead to a dense cake. Mix until just combined for a light and fluffy result.
Make sure the cake is completely cool before spreading on the whipped topping or it will melt.
Consider adding fun toppings like whipped cream, maraschino cherries, or even a drizzle of root beer syrup to make your root beer float cake extra special.
Store cake in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve it. If there are leftovers, cover with plastic wrap store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
To freeze the cake, place in an airtight container, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

How to make Root Beer Float Cake

Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the cake mix box. Prepare a 9x13" pan with nonstick spray.
In a large bowl or stand mixer, on low speed, combine cake mix, 1 ¼ cup of root beer, vegetable oil, and eggs.
Mix the cake batter until it's well combined and smooth. Pour the batter into the prepared 9x13" cake pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick in the center comes out clean. Let cake cool completely.
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 packets of Dream Whip with 1 cup of root beer, and vanilla or root beer extract. Beat until it becomes light, fluffy, and has soft peaks (about 4-5 minutes).
Spread over the cooled cake. Keep refrigerated. Slice and serve!