This German cake uses Fanta as a flavor – learn how to make this fun dessert

Fantakuchen is a German cake usually flavored with fizzy Fanta. It can be called by various names such as “Fanta Cake”, “German Orange Soda Cake” or “Fanta Sponge Cake”. Today, this dessert is mainly observed in children’s birthday parties and Karnival celebrations in the country. Adding syrups to a cake isn’t unprecedented, but this combination is certainly unique. You may be wondering why Fanta and not any other soft drink was chosen for this dessert. It is not always easy to trace the origins of a particular dish. Fortunately, this not only has a clear history but also an interesting history. Continue reading to find out more.

Why is Fanta so popular in Germany?

Fanta has a fascinating origin story. It was actually invented in Nazi Germany as a last resort to save a company from huge financial losses. Long story short, after the United States entered World War II, things got complicated for American companies operating on German soil. One of them was the famous Coca-Cola company. Nazi officials threatened their existence as they were seen as on the side of the opponent. The trade embargo was imposed, which meant that one of Coca-Cola’s main ingredients could no longer be imported into Germany. Consequently, Coca-Cola executives had to come up with new substitutes made from limited resources due to wartime rationing.

(Also read: 5 Quirky and Fun Ways to Add Oranges to Your Diet)

_{The original Fanta is believed to have had unusual ingredients, but it has remained a popular drink. Image credit: iStock}

What they invented was Fanta (derived from the German word “fantasy”, which means fantasy). The ingredients for the original drink look far from appetizing: crumbs of fruit fibers and pulp, beet sugar and leftover ingredients after cheese production. But the drink itself was a success, as people flocked to buy it and demand skyrocketed. It was also used in other dishes, as a sweetener or as a suitable substitute for ingredients that were not available. Thus, Fanta became the favorite drink of the masses and was later adapted and exported to other countries. Today’s German fanta is also distinctive because it is a darker yellow than orange.

(Also Read: History of Soft Drinks in India: 5 Distinctive Local Soda Brands That Will Make You Nostalgic)

How to make a fantamotion

To make a German-style Fanta cake, mix the flour, baking powder, and orange zest in a bowl. Separately, whisk together the eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract. Add vegetable oil, fanta and flour to this mixture. Alternate between these wet and dry ingredients, so they stick together just right. Make sure that the fizz of soda does not die off. Pour the mixture into a greased pan and bake for 22-30 minutes. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a layer of vanilla cream. Add the nuts and nuts on top for more crunch.
Click here for the full German Fanta Cake recipe
Do try to bake this simple yet amazing dessert. It is sure to be a hit among kids as well as adults.