Save A whimsical, ultra-moist loaf cake bursting with cherry flavor, soda fizz, and crunchy cookie bits, this dessert is a playful treat perfect for parties or a fun night in. Chaos Cake: Cherry Soda Cookie Loaf combines classic American baking with a twist that's sure to delight kids and adults alike.
The first time I made this loaf, my family couldn't stop talking about its surprising flavors and whimsical cookie crunch. It's always a crowd-pleaser and a recipe that gets requested at every gathering.
Ingredients
- Cake Batter: 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour, 1 ½ tsp baking powder, ½ tsp baking soda, ¼ tsp salt, ¾ cup (170 g) unsalted butter (softened), 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar, 2 large eggs, 1 tsp vanilla extract, ½ cup (120 ml) cherry soda (e.g. Cherry 7UP, Cherry Coke), ½ cup (120 ml) sour cream, ½ cup (100 g) chopped maraschino cherries (drained and patted dry)
- Cookie Crunch: 1 cup (100 g) crushed vanilla sandwich cookies (e.g. Golden Oreos), 2 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
- Glaze (Optional): ½ cup (60 g) powdered sugar, 2–3 tsp cherry soda
Instructions
- Prepare Pan:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9x5-inch (23x13 cm) loaf pan with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar:
- In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
- Add Eggs and Vanilla:
- Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract.
- Combine Wet and Dry:
- Mix in half the dry ingredients, then add cherry soda and sour cream. Mix in remaining dry ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Add Cherries:
- Fold in chopped maraschino cherries.
- Prepare Cookie Crunch:
- In a small bowl, mix crushed cookies with melted butter.
- Layer Batter and Cookies:
- Pour half the batter into the loaf pan. Sprinkle half the cookie mixture over the batter. Add remaining batter, then top with the rest of the cookie mixture.
- Bake:
- Bake for 45–55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil.
- Cool:
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Glaze (Optional):
- Whisk powdered sugar with cherry soda until smooth. Drizzle over cooled loaf.
Save Baking this cake together is always a highlight, with everyone sneaking extra cookie crunch while we laugh and wait for the cherry aroma to fill the kitchen.
Required Tools
9x5-inch (23x13 cm) loaf pan, stand mixer or hand mixer, mixing bowls, whisk and spatula, parchment paper
Nutritional Information
Calories per serving: 325; total fat: 15 g; carbohydrates: 44 g; protein: 4 g
Notes
For more cherry flavor, add ½ tsp almond extract or swap for chocolate sandwich cookies for a chocolate-cherry twist. Serving with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream makes it even more indulgent.
Save Enjoy a slice with a cold glass of cherry soda for extra fun. This cake keeps moist for several days, making it perfect for make-ahead entertaining.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use a different soda flavor?
Yes, other fruity sodas work well. Choose flavors that complement cherries for fun variations.
- → How do I keep the loaf moist?
Sour cream and cherry soda both ensure a tender texture. Avoid overbaking to maintain moistness.
- → Can I make this treat nut-free?
Check cookie packaging for nut allergens, and buy brands labeled safe. The loaf itself contains no nuts.
- → Is it possible to freeze leftovers?
Wrap cooled slices tightly and freeze for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- → How should I serve the cake loaf?
Serve sliced with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or enjoy plain. Drizzle extra glaze for more flavor.