Baking a cake can be a nostalgic experience, especially when it’s one that has been passed down through generations. If you’ve ever had the pleasure of enjoying a moist, citrusy, and perfectly sweet cake, you’re probably familiar with the iconic 7 Up Cake Recipe . This family favorite is more than just a dessert , it’s a memory in the making, a conversation starter, and the perfect centerpiece for any gathering.
The 7 Up Cake was originally created as a way to incorporate a soda into baking, making the cake light, airy, and incredibly moist. It’s a recipe that can be traced back to Southern kitchens, and its popularity has only grown over the years. But what really makes this cake so special isn’t just the soda – it’s the way it brings people together. Whether you’re serving it at a birthday party, a casual weeknight dinner, or a holiday gathering, this cake never fails to impress.
In my own family, the 7 Up Cake is a staple. I can’t count the number of times I’ve watched my grandmother pull it out of the oven, the sweet aroma filling the kitchen. The recipe has been a part of our tradition for years, and I can’t think of a better way to celebrate a family meal or any occasion. In this post, I’ll share the secrets to making this delicious, citrus-infused cake – so let’s dive in!
What is 7 Up Cake Recipe?
At its core, the 7 Up Cake is a simple yet delightful dessert made using 7 Up soda as a key ingredient. The soda helps the cake rise and creates a tender, moist texture. The cake is often flavored with lemon, which perfectly complements the light, refreshing fizz from the soda. The addition of sour cream or yogurt enhances the richness, making every bite feel indulgent without being overly heavy.
Though the 7 Up Cake might sound unconventional, it has become a beloved recipe in Southern kitchens and beyond. It’s the perfect combination of sweet, tangy, and citrusy flavors, with just the right amount of fluffiness to satisfy your dessert cravings. It’s a versatile recipe that can be customized with different toppings, frosting, or even served plain – no matter how you make it, it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Why You’ll Love This 7 Up Cake Recipe
There are many reasons why this 7 Up Cake recipe will quickly become your go-to dessert.
- It’s incredibly moist: The combination of 7 Up and sour cream creates a cake that’s tender and soft. Each bite feels like you’re sinking into a cloud of flavor.
- It’s simple and easy to make: With just a handful of ingredients, this cake comes together in no time. The recipe doesn’t require complicated techniques or fancy tools, making it a perfect option for beginner bakers or busy home cooks.
- Kid-friendly and family-approved: This cake is perfect for everyone in the family. Kids love the sweetness, while adults appreciate the citrus flavor and the moist, delicate texture. It’s a cake that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s an after-school treat or a holiday celebration.
- Great for leftovers: This cake stays moist and delicious for days, so it’s perfect for making in advance and enjoying throughout the week.
How to Make 7 Up Cake Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 box of yellow cake mix
- 1 (3.4 oz) box of instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1/2 cup of vegetable oil
- 1 cup of 7 Up (or any lemon-lime soda)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon extract (optional)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan, ensuring the entire inside is coated so the cake doesn’t stick once it’s baked.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix and instant vanilla pudding mix. These two dry ingredients will give the cake its sweetness and structure.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
To the dry ingredients, add the vegetable oil, 7 Up, eggs, vanilla extract, and lemon extract (if using). Use an electric mixer to blend everything together on low speed for about 1 minute. Once the ingredients are incorporated, increase the speed to medium for another 2-3 minutes. This helps create a smooth batter and ensures the cake will be light and fluffy.
Step 4: Incorporate the Sour Cream
Add the sour cream to the batter and mix on medium speed for another 1-2 minutes. The sour cream adds richness and moisture, contributing to that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Step 5: Pour and Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared bundt pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
Step 6: Let the Cake Cool
Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, gently flip the pan over onto a wire rack and let the cake cool completely before serving.
What to Serve With
This 7 Up Cake is delicious on its own, but there are plenty of ways to take it to the next level. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. If you’re in the mood for a little tang, a drizzle of lemon glaze would complement the citrusy notes in the cake beautifully. You can even add fresh berries on the side for a burst of color and freshness.
For special occasions, you can decorate the cake with frosting or sprinkles. This cake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or a chilled glass of lemonade for a refreshing treat.
Top Tips
- Use a bundt pan: The bundt shape allows for even cooking and a beautiful presentation. If you don’t have a bundt pan, you can use a standard round or square pan, but adjust the baking time accordingly.
- Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can make the cake dense, so be sure to mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Add a touch of lemon zest: For an extra punch of citrus flavor, try adding a teaspoon of lemon zest to the batter.
Storing and Reheating
Store leftover 7 Up Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you prefer, you can store it in the refrigerator for a few extra days. To reheat, simply microwave a slice for 10-15 seconds or warm it up in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes.
FAQs
Can I make this cake without pudding mix?
Yes, you can substitute the pudding mix with an additional half cup of cake mix. However, the pudding adds moisture and richness, so it’s best not to skip it for the best texture.
Can I make 7 Up Cake with a different soda?
While 7 Up is the classic choice, you can use any lemon-lime soda or even Sprite. The soda helps create the light, fluffy texture, so any fizzy citrus soda should work well.
Can I freeze 7 Up Cake?
Yes, this cake freezes wonderfully! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in an airtight container. It will last for up to 2 months in the freezer. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Can I add fruit or nuts to the batter?
Absolutely! Feel free to fold in chopped nuts, berries, or even coconut flakes into the batter for added texture and flavor.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes! This cake is perfect for kids. It’s sweet, moist, and easy to slice. Plus, kids love the fun, fizzy element of the soda.
Conclusion
This 7 Up Cake recipe is a family tradition for a reason. It’s simple to make, incredibly delicious, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or just as a sweet treat for the family, it’s a dessert that will never disappoint. The light, citrusy flavor and moist texture make it the perfect companion for any gathering, and the best part is that it’s easy enough to make on a busy weeknight.
So, gather your ingredients and make this recipe today – you’re going to love it!
7 Up Cake Recipe
Kochutensilien
- Electric mixer – To blend the cake ingredients smoothly.
- Bundt pan – Ideal for this recipe to ensure even baking and a beautiful shape.
- Wire rack – To cool the cake properly after baking.
Zutaten
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 3.4 oz box instant vanilla pudding mix
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup 7 Up or any lemon-lime soda
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon lemon extract optional
- ½ cup sour cream
Anleitungen
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix and instant vanilla pudding mix.
- Add the wet ingredients: Add vegetable oil, 7 Up, eggs, vanilla extract, and lemon extract (if using). Mix on low speed for about 1 minute, then increase to medium speed for 2-3 minutes.
- Add sour cream: Incorporate sour cream and mix for 1-2 minutes until smooth.
- Pour batter into pan: Transfer the batter into the prepared bundt pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool the cake: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then flip onto a wire rack to cool completely.