7UP Pound Cake

Craving a taste of classic Southern comfort? Dive into the nostalgic charm of a 7UP Pound Cake — a rich, buttery delight with a refreshing citrus zing.

This iconic cake blends the fizzy brightness of 7UP soda with the tender crumb of a traditional pound cake.

Topped with a simple lemon glaze, it’s the perfect dessert for family gatherings, afternoon tea, or a sweet end to a cozy meal.

Ingredients List

Creating a moist and flavorful 7UP Pound Cake requires just a few essential ingredients that work together to create its signature dense texture and lemony sweetness. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need for both the cake and the glaze.

Cake Ingredients

• ¾ lb. (3 sticks) salted butter, at room temperature
• 3 cups white sugar
• 5 large eggs, at room temperature
• 3 cups (360 grams) all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons lemon zest (from about 2 lemons)
• ¾ cup 7UP soda (not diet)

Glaze Ingredients

• ⅔ cup powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (add more as needed for consistency)

Required Kitchen Tools

When making a 7UP Pound Cake, having the right tools on hand will ensure your baking process is smooth and successful. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: To cream the butter and sugar properly for a light texture.
2. Bundt Cake Pan: The classic shape adds elegance and ensures even baking.
3. Rubber Spatula: For scraping down the sides of the bowl and folding in ingredients gently.
4. Citrus Zester: To finely zest the lemons and bring out the cake’s bright flavor.
5. Toothpick or Cake Tester: For checking doneness in the thickest part of the cake.
6. Wire Cooling Rack: To help the cake cool evenly before glazing.

Having these tools ready before you begin will streamline your process and help you bake a pound cake that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Cake Preparation

Making the 7UP Pound Cake involves a few simple yet important steps. From creaming the butter to folding in the soda, each step helps build the cake’s rich texture and refreshing flavor.

Mixing the Ingredients

Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together the butter and sugar on medium-high speed. This should take about 12–13 minutes, or until the mixture becomes very light, pale, and fluffy — this step is key to a moist, airy crumb.

Once the butter and sugar are creamed, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is fully incorporated.

Next, gradually add the flour and lemon zest, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix at this stage — this helps preserve the cake’s delicate texture.

Finally, fold in the 7UP soda by hand using a rubber spatula. The carbonation adds a gentle lift to the batter and gives the cake its signature texture and flavor.

Baking the Cake

Grease your Bundt pan generously, making sure to get into every crease. Pour the batter evenly into the pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Bake the cake for 70 to 80 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The top should be golden and slightly crisp.

Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for 15–20 minutes, then carefully invert it onto a wire cooling rack to cool completely. Letting it cool before glazing ensures the topping doesn’t melt away.

Glazing the Cake

Once your 7UP Pound Cake has cooled completely, it’s time to add the final touch — a sweet, citrusy glaze that enhances the lemon flavor and adds a beautiful finish.

Preparing the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice until smooth. The glaze should be thick but pourable. If it’s too thick, add a little more lemon juice, one teaspoon at a time, until it reaches the right consistency. If it’s too runny, simply add a bit more powdered sugar.

Applying the Glaze

Using a spoon or small whisk, drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake, letting it run naturally down the curves of the Bundt shape. For a cleaner look, you can place a tray or parchment paper underneath the cooling rack to catch any excess glaze.

Let the glaze set for about 10–15 minutes before slicing and serving. The glaze will firm up slightly, giving the cake a glossy, elegant finish.

Serving and Decoration

Presentation can make a beloved classic feel even more special. With its beautiful golden crust and delicate glaze, the 7UP Pound Cake already shines on its own — but a few thoughtful touches can elevate the experience.

Suggested Toppings and Serving Ideas

• Fresh Berries: Add a pop of color and freshness by serving the cake with a side of fresh raspberries, blueberries, or sliced strawberries.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds richness and balance to each slice.
• Candied Lemon Peel: For a citrusy flair, sprinkle a few strands of candied lemon peel over the glazed cake.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: For a decadent dessert, pair a warm slice of 7UP Pound Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

This cake is ideal for casual gatherings, potlucks, or as a thoughtful homemade gift. Its texture improves even more the next day, making it a great make-ahead treat.

Storage Instructions

To keep your 7UP Pound Cake as fresh and flavorful as possible, follow these simple storage tips.

How to Store

Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. It can be stored at room temperature for up to 4 days. Avoid refrigerating the cake, as that can dry it out.

Freezing Instructions

To freeze, wrap the whole cake or individual slices in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe zip-top bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To enjoy, let it thaw at room temperature while still wrapped to retain moisture.

Conclusion

The 7UP Pound Cake is a timeless dessert that brings together simplicity and indulgence in every slice.

With just a handful of pantry staples and the unexpected fizz of soda, you can create a cake that’s rich, tender, and irresistibly bright.

So preheat that oven, zest those lemons, and prepare to impress — one slice at a time.