# Components:
→ Cake Base
01 - 1 cup Monster Energy (original or cherry flavor)
02 - 1 cup granulated sugar
03 - 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
04 - 2 large eggs
05 - 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
06 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
07 - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
08 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
09 - 1/2 cup cherry soda
10 - 1/2 cup chopped maraschino cherries, drained and patted dry
→ Cherry Soda Glaze
11 - 1 cup powdered sugar
12 - 2 to 3 tablespoons cherry soda
13 - 1 tablespoon Monster Energy
14 - 1 tablespoon maraschino cherry juice (optional, for color)
# Directions:
01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9 x 13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving excess on the sides for easier removal.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, melted unsalted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.
03 - Add Monster Energy and cherry soda to the wet mixture. Gently whisk until fully blended.
04 - In a separate bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing only until combined.
05 - Gently fold chopped maraschino cherries into the batter, ensuring even distribution.
06 - Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Smooth the surface with a spatula. Bake for 28 to 32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center emerges clean or with minimal crumbs.
07 - Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan atop a wire rack.
08 - In a medium bowl, whisk powdered sugar with cherry soda, Monster Energy, and optional maraschino cherry juice until the glaze is smooth and pourable.
09 - Drizzle the glaze evenly over the cooled cake. Allow the glaze to set before cutting into bars and serving.
