7 Up Pound Cake: A Moist and Flavorful Classic Recipe

7 Up Pound Cake is a delightful dessert that has captured the hearts of many with its unique flavor and moist texture. This classic recipe, which incorporates the fizzy citrus soda, has been a staple in Southern kitchens for generations. The origins of 7 Up Pound Cake can be traced back to the mid-20th century, when creative home bakers began experimenting with soft drinks in their recipes, leading to a cake that is both light and rich at the same time.

What I love most about 7 Up Pound Cake is its incredible versatility; it can be enjoyed on its own, paired with fresh fruit, or even dressed up with a glaze for special occasions. The combination of the soda and traditional ingredients creates a tender crumb that melts in your mouth, making it a favorite among family and friends. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or simply indulging in a slice with your afternoon tea, 7 Up Pound Cake is sure to bring smiles and satisfaction to everyone who tries it.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups granulated sugar
• 5 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon lemon extract
• 1 cup 7 Up soda (or any lemon-lime soda)

Preparing the Batter

1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly and rises beautifully. 2. **Prepare the Bundt Pan**: Grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt pan. You can use a non-stick spray or butter and flour. Make sure to coat all the nooks and crannies to prevent sticking. 3. **Mix Dry Ingredients**: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This step is crucial as it helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent and salt throughout the flour. 4. **Cream Butter and Sugar**: In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar. Beat on medium speed for about 5-7 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the batter, which is essential for a light cake. 5. **Add Eggs**: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps to emulsify the mixture and ensures that the eggs are fully incorporated. 6. **Incorporate Extracts**: Add the vanilla and lemon extracts to the butter-sugar-egg mixture. Mix until well combined. The extracts will add a lovely flavor to your cake. 7. **Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients**: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the 7 Up soda. Start with a third of the flour mixture, then add half of the soda, followed by another third of the flour, the remaining soda, and finally the last of the flour. Mix on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cake.

Cooking Process

8. **Pour Batter into Pan**: Once your batter is ready, pour it into the prepared Bundt pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly and smooth the top. 9. **Bake the Cake**: Place the Bundt pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time to avoid overbaking. 10. **Cool the Cake**: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. This allows it to set and makes it easier to remove from the pan. 11. **Invert the Cake**: After cooling, carefully invert the Bundt pan onto a wire rack. Gently tap the pan to release the cake. If it doesn’t come out easily, you can use a knife to gently loosen the edges.

Assembling and Serving

12. **Prepare the Glaze (Optional)**: While the cake is cooling, you can prepare a simple glaze if you’d like to add a little extra sweetness. In a small bowl, mix together 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2-3 tablespoons of lemon juice (or more 7 Up) until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more sugar or liquid as needed. 13. **Drizzle the Glaze**: Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the top. You can use a spoon or a whisk to create a beautiful pattern. The glaze will add a nice shine and extra flavor to your cake. 14. **Slice and Serve**: Now it’s time to slice your delicious 7 Up Pound Cake! Serve it as is, or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. This cake is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to casual get-togethers with friends. 15. **Storing Leftovers**: If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate it for up to a week. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Tips for Success

– **

Conclusion:

In summary, this 7 Up Pound Cake is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to impress their family and friends with a delightful dessert that’s both simple and delicious. The unique addition of 7 Up not only adds a subtle citrus flavor but also creates a wonderfully moist texture that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, a birthday party, or just enjoying a slice with your afternoon tea, this cake is sure to be a hit. For serving suggestions, consider pairing your 7 Up Pound Cake with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries for a refreshing twist. You can also drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice over the top for an extra touch of sweetness. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a hint of almond extract or even some poppy seeds to the batter for a unique flavor variation that will surprise and delight your taste buds. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and experience the joy of baking this classic cake. Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your beautiful creation. Let’s spread the love for this 7 Up Pound Cake together! Happy baking! Print