Who doesn’t love a cake that’s as bright and cheerful as a sunny day? Our Sundrop Cake is a vibrant treat inspired by the citrusy burst of Sundrop soda. It’s the perfect blend of tangy and sweet, with a moist texture that melts in your mouth. This cake isn’t just delicious—it’s a nostalgic nod to a classic soda we’ve all come to adore.
Sundrop Cake Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup Sundrop soda, room temperature
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest, freshly grated
For the Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
- 2 tablespoons Sundrop soda
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
Instructions
1. Preheat & Prepare
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan, ensuring all corners are coated evenly. Set it aside.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents.
3. Cream Butter & Sugar
- Using a stand mixer or hand mixer on medium speed, cream the butter with the granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step typically takes 3–4 minutes.
4. Incorporate Wet Ingredients
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract until fully combined.
5. Add Dry Ingredients Alternating With Soda
- Reduce the mixer speed to low. Gradually add the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with the Sundrop soda in two parts. Begin and end with the dry mixture. Mix just until combined, avoiding overmixing.
6. Fold in Lemon Zest
- Gently fold in the lemon zest using a spatula for a burst of citrus flavor.
7. Bake
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth out the top with a spatula. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the Glaze
1. Mix the Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, Sundrop soda, and lemon juice until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more powdered sugar (for thicker glaze) or Sundrop soda (for a thinner glaze).
2. Drizzle
- Once the cake has completely cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top. Let the glaze set for at least 15 minutes before slicing.
Baking Tips & Tricks
| Step | Tip or Note |
|---|---|
| Mixing Batter | Avoid overmixing to maintain tender cake texture. |
| Glaze Consistency | For a zingier glaze, increase lemon juice to 1 ½ tablespoons. |
| Soda Substitution | While Sundrop is ideal, 7UP or Sprite can be used as alternatives. |
Ingredients
Let’s gather the freshest ingredients to create a perfectly moist and tangy Sundrop Cake. Here’s everything we’ll need for the cake, glaze, and optional toppings.
For The Cake
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 cup Sundrop soda, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon for a citrusy aroma
For The Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted for a smooth consistency
- 2 tablespoons Sundrop soda, adjust for desired consistency
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice for added tang
For The Topping (Optional)
- ½ cup sweetened shredded coconut, lightly toasted
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest, finely grated
- Fresh slices of lemon or your favorite citrus fruits for garnish
Tools And Equipment
Creating the perfect Sundrop Cake requires not only the right ingredients but also essential tools and equipment to ensure success. Here’s everything we need for this vibrant dessert:
Baking Essentials
- Mixing bowls: At least three of varying sizes for dry and wet ingredients.
- Electric mixer: A stand mixer or handheld mixer for creaming butter and sugar effortlessly.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate measurements of both liquid and dry ingredients.
- Whisk: To combine dry ingredients smoothly.
Key Baking Tools
- 9-inch round cake pans: Two pans, greased and lined with parchment paper for even baking. Ensure they are non-stick or properly greased to avoid sticking issues.
- Offset spatula: Ideal for spreading the glaze evenly over the cake layers.
- Cooling rack: Essential for cooling the cakes after they bake to maintain texture and avoid sogginess.
Additional Tools
- Citrus zester: Useful for grating fresh lemon zest, an important ingredient in the recipe.
- Sifter: Helps aerate and remove clumps from dry ingredients, giving the cake a light texture.
- Pastry brush: Optional, for applying a thin soda glaze evenly over the cake layers if preferred.
Equipment Table
| Tool/Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing bowls | Combining and prepping ingredients before baking. |
| Electric mixer | Creaming butter and sugar to create a light, fluffy batter. |
| Measuring tools | Ensuring precise measurements for balance in flavors and textures. |
| Cake pans | Baking the cake layers evenly and ensuring easy release. |
| Cooling rack | Allowing air circulation to prevent soggy cake bottoms during cooling. |
| Citrus zester | Grating lemon zest for a fresh, tangy flavor. |
Each item listed not only enhances the process but also ensures a professional-level dessert that highlights the refreshing zest of Sundrop soda. Having this equipment ready makes the baking experience straightforward and enjoyable.
Directions
Follow these simple steps to make the perfect Sundrop Cake. With precise preparation and attention to each stage, we guarantee moist, flavorful results every time.
Prep
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper for easy release.
- Measure out all the ingredients to ensure a smooth baking process.
- Zest the lemon and set it aside for both the batter and the glaze.
Make The Cake Batter
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream 1 cup unsalted butter (softened) with 2 cups granulated sugar on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add 4 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Gradually alternate adding the dry ingredients and 1 cup Sundrop soda to the creamed butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined.
- Fold in 1 tsp vanilla extract and 1 tbsp lemon zest using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix to keep the cake tender.
Bake The Cake
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth out the tops with an offset spatula.
- Place the pans on the middle rack of the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Run a knife along the edges before inverting them onto a cooling rack. Let them cool completely before adding the glaze.
Prepare The Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together:
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar (sifted)
- 3 tbsp Sundrop soda
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Adjust the consistency by adding a bit more soda for a thinner glaze or powdered sugar for a thicker one. The glaze should be pourable but not overly runny.
Assemble The Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Pour half of the glaze over the top and spread evenly with an offset spatula, allowing it to drip slightly down the sides.
- Stack the second layer on top and pour the remaining glaze over it, again spreading it evenly.
- For a stunning finish, garnish with toasted coconut, fresh citrus slices, and a sprinkle of lemon zest if desired.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To make our Sundrop Cake preparation stress-free, we can prepare various components in advance. Here’s how we can plan ahead for a seamless baking experience:
1. Baking the Cake Layers Ahead
- Bake the cake layers as instructed in the recipe.
- Allow them to cool completely on a cooling rack.
- Once cooled, wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month.
- If freezing, place the wrapped layers inside a freezer-safe zip-top bag or airtight container for added protection.
Tip: Thaw frozen layers in the refrigerator overnight before assembling.
2. Preparing the Glaze in Advance
- Whisk together the glaze ingredients (powdered sugar, Sundrop soda, and lemon juice).
- Transfer the glaze to an airtight container.
- Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Before use, whisk the glaze again to restore its smooth consistency.
3. Garnishes and Toppings
- Prepare garnish options (toasted coconut, citrus slices, lemon zest) a day ahead.
- Store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator.
- Ensure that the toasted coconut stays dry to maintain its crispness.
Pro Tip: Assemble your garnishes just before serving for a fresh and vibrant cake presentation.
Storage Timeline Overview
| Component | Preparation Time | Storage Method | Shelf Life |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cake Layers | Up to 3 days ahead | Plastic wrap + fridge or freezer | 3 days in fridge, 1 month in freezer |
| Glaze | Up to 2 days ahead | Airtight container + fridge | 2 days in the refrigerator |
| Garnishes & Toppings | 1 day ahead | Airtight containers + fridge | Garnishes fresh for 1 day |
By preparing these elements ahead of time, assembling the Sundrop Cake will be quick and effortless, leaving us with more time to enjoy this vibrant dessert with family and friends.
Tips For Success
To ensure that our Sundrop Cake turns out perfectly every time, we’ve curated essential tips and tricks to simplify the process, prevent common issues, and elevate the flavor and presentation of this vibrant dessert. Follow these expert suggestions to bake with confidence and enjoy flawless results!
1. Measure Accurately for Best Results
Baking is a science, and precise measurements are key. Use dry measuring cups for dry ingredients like flour and sugar, and liquid measuring cups for liquids like Sundrop soda and lemon juice. For utmost accuracy:
- Use a kitchen scale to weigh your flour to prevent your cake from turning dense.
- Always level dry ingredient measurements with a flat utensil for consistent results.
2. Proper Mixing Techniques
The quality of the batter determines the cake’s texture.
- Cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, typically 2-3 minutes. Over-mixing or under-mixing can lead to a dense or unevenly baked cake.
- While incorporating dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternate with the Sundrop soda, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. This ensures a smooth and lump-free batter.
3. Managing Batter Consistency
The batter’s consistency should be thick but not overly dense. Tip: If the batter seems too thick, mix in an additional tablespoon of Sundrop soda to loosen it slightly—this enhances both texture and the soda’s tangy note.
4. Check Your Oven Temperature
Oven temperature consistency is critical for even baking.
- Invest in an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy since ovens can vary.
- Bake the cake at a steady 350°F (175°C) and rotate the pans halfway through baking if your oven has hot spots.
5. Glaze Consistency
A thick, pourable glaze is essential for a polished finish. Gradually add the Sundrop soda to the powdered sugar, one teaspoon at a time, while whisking. If the glaze becomes runny, add more powdered sugar to achieve the desired texture.
6. Cooling the Cake Properly
Allow the cake layers to cool completely on a wire rack to prevent the glaze from melting and sliding off. Cooling ensures the correct glaze application and a neater presentation.
7. Layer Assembly and Garnish
For professional-quality presentation:
- Use an offset spatula to spread the glaze evenly across the layers and drizzle extra for a dripping effect.
- Garnish with toasted coconut, citrus slices, and extra lemon zest for a vibrant, eye-catching finish that amplifies the citrusy essence of Sundrop soda.
Component Prep Timeline
Preparation and timing are critical for success. Here’s a quick reference guide:
| Component | Make-Ahead Option | Storage Details |
|---|---|---|
| Cake Layers | Up to 2 days in advance | Wrap in plastic wrap, refrigerate |
| Sundrop Glaze | Up to 3 days in advance | Keep in an airtight container |
| Garnishes | Up to 1 day in advance | Store in a dry and cool location |
8. Storage Tips
Once assembled, the cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or refrigerated for up to 3 days. Always serve at room temperature to enjoy the full flavor and moist texture of the Sundrop Cake.
Conclusion
The Sundrop Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a burst of citrusy joy that brings a nostalgic twist to any occasion. With its vibrant flavor, moist texture, and stunning presentation, it’s the kind of treat that leaves a lasting impression. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or simply to indulge in something special, this cake is sure to delight.
By following the recipe and tips we’ve shared, you’ll have everything you need to create a flawless Sundrop Cake. Don’t hesitate to get creative with garnishes or try alternative soda options to make it uniquely yours. Let this cake be your go-to for celebrating bright flavors and cherished moments.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is a Sundrop Cake?
A Sundrop Cake is a vibrant dessert inspired by Sundrop soda, combining tangy and sweet flavors. It features a moist texture with a hint of lemony citrus, complemented by a sugary glaze and optional garnishes like toasted coconut or fresh citrus slices.
2. Can I use a different soda instead of Sundrop?
Yes! You can substitute Sundrop with other citrus-flavored sodas like Mountain Dew, Sprite, or 7UP. However, the flavor profile may vary slightly.
3. What ingredients are needed for Sundrop Cake?
Key ingredients include all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, unsalted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, Sundrop soda, lemon zest, vanilla extract, powdered sugar, and lemon juice. Optional toppings include toasted coconut, additional zest, and fresh citrus slices.
4. Do I need any special tools to make this cake?
You’ll need basic baking tools such as mixing bowls, an electric mixer, measuring cups and spoons, a whisk, 9-inch round cake pans, an offset spatula, and a cooling rack.
5. How do I store a Sundrop Cake?
Store the assembled cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Individual components can also be prepared ahead and stored separately.
6. Can I prepare the cake in advance?
Yes! Bake the cake layers, cool them completely, and wrap in plastic to refrigerate or freeze. The glaze and garnishes can also be prepared a day ahead to make assembly easy.
7. How do I ensure the cake turns out moist and fluffy?
Accurate measurements, proper mixing techniques, and managing batter consistency are key. Ensure you cream the butter and sugar thoroughly and avoid overmixing once you’ve added dry ingredients.
8. How can I adjust the glaze consistency?
For a thicker glaze, add more powdered sugar. If you prefer a thinner glaze, mix in small amounts of Sundrop soda or lemon juice until the desired consistency is achieved.
9. Can I make the cake without a glaze?
Yes, the cake can be served without the glaze. However, the glaze enhances the tangy flavor and adds moisture, making the cake more vibrant and delicious.
10. What are some optional garnishes for the Sundrop Cake?
Optional garnishes include toasted coconut, fresh lemon zest, and citrus slices, which add color, texture, and refreshing flavor to the cake.