If you’re craving something bright, fluffy, and full of citrusy fun, the Ultra Moist Orange Soda Cake might just become your new favorite treat. This retro-inspired dessert uses orange soda not just for flavor but to help create a uniquely soft and airy texture that melts in your mouth with each bite.


Topped with a creamy layer of whipped frosting and a burst of orange zest or piping, it’s as photogenic as it is tasty. Whether you’re throwing a birthday party, bringing a dish to a potluck, or just treating yourself on a sunny afternoon, this cake delivers nostalgia and flavor in one easy bake.
What Kind of Orange Soda Should I Use?
For that authentic soda shop taste and vibrant orange color, use a full-sugar variety like Crush, Fanta, or Sunkist. These brands pack the most citrus punch and the carbonation helps with the cake’s fluffiness. Avoid diet versions, as the artificial sweeteners can change the flavor and baking chemistry.
Ingredients for the Ultra Moist Orange Soda Cake
White Cake Mix – The base that keeps this recipe quick and easy, while providing a neutral flavor that lets the orange soda shine.
Orange Soda – The star of the show! It adds flavor, moisture, and lightness to the cake batter.
Eggs – Give structure and stability to the cake while contributing richness.
Vegetable Oil – Helps keep the cake ultra-moist and tender.
Whipped Topping or Vanilla Frosting – Adds a cool and creamy contrast to the sweet orange cake.
Orange Gel or Zest (optional) – For decorating the top with an extra pop of citrus color.
How To Make the Ultra Moist Orange Soda Cake
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a large bowl, combine the white cake mix, orange soda, eggs, and vegetable oil. Beat with a hand mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes until smooth.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 4: Cool and Frost
Allow the cake to cool completely before spreading on your whipped topping or vanilla frosting. Add orange zest or gel for decoration if desired.

Serving and Storing This Orange Soda Cake
Serve chilled or at room temperature. It’s a crowd-pleaser just as is, but a small scoop of vanilla ice cream takes it over the top. Leftovers? Store covered in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze slices individually wrapped for a grab-and-go dessert moment anytime.
What to Serve With Ultra Moist Orange Soda Cake?
Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream
The smooth, cold creaminess makes a dreamy pairing with the cake’s citrusy sponge.
Fresh Berries
Strawberries or raspberries cut through the sweetness with tart, juicy notes.
Iced Earl Grey Tea
The hint of bergamot complements the orange flavors in a refined way.
Sparkling Citrus Punch
Double down on the fizzy fun by serving with a citrusy punch or mocktail.
Light Chicken Salad
Perfect if you’re serving this cake at a brunch or light lunch.
Want More Cake Ideas Bursting with Flavor?
If you’re loving this citrus twist, don’t miss these delicious desserts next:
- Pineapple Dump Cake Recipe for a tropical delight.
- Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake with rich caramel tones.
- Vintage Maraschino Cherry Cake for a retro cherry pop.
- Coconut Cream Cake full of island vibes.
- German Chocolate Poke Cake for a rich and gooey indulgence.
Save This Pin For Later
Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.
Tried it with a twist? Maybe a splash of Grand Marnier or a cream cheese swirl? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.
Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen.com on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there!
Ultra Moist Orange Soda Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Say hello to your new favorite dessert—this Ultra Moist Orange Soda Cake is bursting with vibrant citrus flavor and nostalgia. Using classic orange soda in the batter makes this cake unbelievably light, airy, and tender. Perfect for birthdays, backyard BBQs, potlucks, or an easy dessert for any night of the week, this is the ultimate go-to when you need something crowd-pleasing and fuss-free. Topped with creamy whipped frosting, this sweet and zesty cake will instantly brighten any table. It’s a fun twist for cake lovers, soda fans, and those hunting down quick dessert ideas, easy baking recipes, or even quirky food ideas.
Ingredients
1 box white cake mix
1 cup orange soda
3 large eggs
½ cup vegetable oil
1 container whipped topping or vanilla frosting
1 tablespoon orange gel or zest (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, mix the cake mix, orange soda, eggs, and oil using a hand mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes.
3. Pour the batter into the prepared dish and spread evenly.
4. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
5. Let the cake cool completely before frosting.
6. Spread whipped topping or vanilla frosting over the cooled cake.
7. Garnish with orange gel or zest if desired.
8. Slice, serve, and enjoy the citrusy delight!
Notes
For an even richer flavor, add a few drops of orange extract to the batter.
This cake tastes even better the next day after the flavors settle in the fridge overnight.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 26g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: easy dessert, soda cake, orange cake, fun cake, quick baking
