Craving a rich, buttery cake with a hint of citrus? 7UP Pound Cake is a timeless Southern classic that delivers a moist, tender crumb with a refreshing lemon-lime twist.
Made with simple pantry staples and a generous splash of 7UP soda, this cake boasts a light texture while maintaining its signature dense and buttery richness.
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Perfect for any occasion, this cake pairs beautifully with a zesty lemon glaze for the ultimate dessert indulgence.
Ingredients List
Creating the perfect 7UP Pound Cake requires a careful selection of ingredients that contribute to its unique flavor and texture. Below is a breakdown of what you’ll need:
For the Cake:
- 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
For the Glaze:
- ⅔ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (or more, as necessary)
Required Kitchen Tools
Having the right tools on hand ensures that your cake bakes evenly and comes out perfect every time. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer – Essential for creaming butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Bundt Cake Pan – Provides the iconic ring shape for your pound cake.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons – For precise ingredient measurements.
- Microplane or Zester – To extract fresh lemon zest.
- Wire Rack – For cooling the cake evenly before glazing.
Cake Preparation
Achieving the perfect 7UP Pound Cake requires proper mixing techniques and careful baking. Follow these steps for a light, buttery, and flavorful cake:
Mixing the Ingredients
- Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 325°F (163°C) to ensure even baking. Grease a Bundt cake pan thoroughly with butter or non-stick spray.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar – In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat the butter and sugar together on medium speed for 12-13 minutes until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the batter.
- Add the Eggs – Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients and 7UP – Gradually add the flour and lemon zest, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix. Finally, gently fold in the 7UP soda to enhance the cake’s light texture.
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Baking the Cake
- Pour the Batter – Transfer the batter into the prepared Bundt pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake to Perfection – Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 70-80 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cooling Process – Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15-20 minutes before carefully transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Glazing the Cake
A simple lemon glaze adds a tangy-sweet finish to your 7UP Pound Cake, enhancing its citrus notes while providing a beautiful, glossy drizzle.
Preparing the Glaze
- Mix the Ingredients – In a small bowl, whisk together ⅔ cup powdered sugar and 1 tablespoon lemon juice until smooth.
- Adjust the Consistency – If the glaze is too thick, add more lemon juice 1 teaspoon at a time until it reaches a pourable consistency. If too thin, add more powdered sugar.
- Drizzle Over the Cake – Once the cake is completely cool, slowly drizzle the glaze over the top, letting it cascade down the sides for an elegant presentation.
Serving & Decoration
Presentation plays a key role in making your 7UP Pound Cake as visually appealing as it is delicious. Here are some ways to elevate your serving style:
Suggested Toppings & Garnishes
- Powdered Sugar – A light dusting adds an extra touch of sweetness and sophistication.
- Fresh Lemon Zest – Sprinkle over the glaze for a pop of color and intensified citrus flavor.
- Whipped Cream & Berries – Serve slices with fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a vibrant contrast.
- Vanilla Ice Cream – A scoop of creamy vanilla pairs beautifully with the buttery richness of the cake.
This cake is best enjoyed at room temperature, allowing its flavors to fully develop. Whether served as a breakfast treat, afternoon snack, or dessert, 7UP Pound Cake is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Storage Instructions
Proper storage ensures your 7UP Pound Cake stays fresh and delicious for days. Follow these simple tips to preserve its moisture and flavor.
How to Keep 7UP Pound Cake Fresh
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- At Room Temperature – Store the cake in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap. It will stay fresh for 3-4 days.
- In the Refrigerator – If you prefer a chilled cake, store it in the fridge for up to 1 week. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Freezing 7UP Pound Cake
For longer storage, freezing is a great option:
- Wrap the Cake Properly – Once the cake has completely cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Store in the Freezer – Place the wrapped cake in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Thawing & Serving – When ready to eat, thaw the cake at room temperature for a few hours before serving. If desired, refresh the cake with a light drizzle of fresh glaze.
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7UP Pound Cake
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 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
For the Glaze
- ⅔ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (or more, as necessary)
Instructions
- Set your oven to 325°F (163°C) to ensure even baking. Grease a Bundt cake pan thoroughly with butter or non-stick spray.
- In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat the butter and sugar together on medium speed for 12-13 minutes until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the batter.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Gradually add the flour and lemon zest, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix. Finally, gently fold in the 7UP soda to enhance the cake’s light texture.
Conclusion
The 7UP Pound Cake is a delightful combination of buttery richness and zesty citrus flavors, making it a must-try for any home baker. Whether served plain, glazed, or paired with fresh fruit, this cake delivers moist, tender perfection in every bite.
By following the step-by-step instructions and using the best storage techniques, you can enjoy this classic Southern dessert anytime.
So, preheat your oven, grab your ingredients, and bake up this timeless treat—your kitchen will be filled with the irresistible aroma of homemade goodness!