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7 Up Pound Cake

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A Southern classic with a tender, velvety crumb and subtle lemon-lime flavor from the 7 Up soda. This rich, buttery pound cake has a gorgeous golden crust and moist interior that makes it perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cake:

  • 1 1/2 cups (3 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 cups granulated sugar
  • 5 large eggs, room temperature
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons lemon zest (from about 2 lemons)
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 3/4 cup 7 Up soda, room temperature (not diet)

For the Glaze (Optional):

 

  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup 7 Up soda
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch tube pan or 12-cup bundt pan, making sure to coat all crevices well.
  2. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until creamy, about 2 minutes. Gradually add the sugar, beating until light and fluffy, about 5-7 minutes. This long creaming process is crucial for the cake’s texture.
  3. Add the Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition (about 30 seconds per egg). Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
  4. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
  5. Create the Batter: Reduce the mixer speed to low. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the 7 Up (beginning and ending with the flour). Mix just until incorporated after each addition. Stir in the lemon zest and vanilla extract.
  6. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Tap the pan gently on the counter a few times to remove any air bubbles. Bake for 75-85 minutes, or until a long wooden pick or cake tester inserted in the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown and spring back when lightly touched.
  7. Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack for 15-20 minutes. Then, carefully invert onto a serving plate and let cool completely.
  8. Make the Glaze (Optional): In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, 7 Up, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth. The glaze should be thick but pourable. If needed, add more 7 Up a teaspoon at a time to reach desired consistency.
  9. Finish the Cake: Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the top, allowing it to run down the sides. Let the glaze set before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

 

Serve slices of this versatile cake on its own or with fresh berries and whipped cream. For a more indulgent dessert, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or lemon sorbet. This cake is perfect for everything from afternoon tea to special occasions.

Notes

Pro Tips:

  • For the best texture, ensure all refrigerated ingredients are at room temperature before beginning.
  • Don’t skimp on the creaming time for the butter and sugar – this incorporates air and is essential for the cake’s rise and texture.
  • Use fresh 7 Up that hasn’t lost its carbonation for the best leavening effect.
  • The cake gets better with time – make it a day ahead for enhanced flavor.
  • To ensure even baking, position the oven rack in the center of the oven.
  • For extra flavor, add 1 teaspoon of lemon extract along with the vanilla.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Opening the oven door during the first 45 minutes of baking, which can cause the cake to sink.
  • Undermixing the butter and sugar, which affects the cake’s rise and texture.
  • Overmixing after adding the flour, which can make the cake tough.
  • Using cold ingredients, which won’t incorporate properly.
  • Taking the cake out of the pan too soon, which can cause it to break.

Storage Instructions:

Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 4 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap individual slices or the whole cake (unglazed) tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

 

Enjoy your 7 Up Pound Cake!