This classic 7 Up Pound Cake is more than just a nostalgic Southern treat—it’s a moist, buttery masterpiece with a delicate crumb and crisp golden crust. What sets this pound cake apart is the addition of lemon-lime soda, which acts not only as a leavening agent but also infuses the cake with a subtle citrus note that complements the rich buttery base. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, looking for a holiday dessert, or simply craving a homemade cake that never fails, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Butter and Sugar Base
- Butter (softened) – 1 ½ cups
- Granulated Sugar – 3 cups
Wet Additions
- Eggs – 5 large
- Vanilla Extract – 1 teaspoon
- Almond or Lemon Extract – 2 teaspoons
Dry and Moisture Balance
- All-Purpose Flour – 3 cups
- 7 Up, Sprite, or Sierra Mist – 1 cup (not diet)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). This lower baking temperature allows the dense pound cake to cook through evenly without drying out or overbaking the crust.
Thoroughly grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan. Be sure to coat every crevice of the pan to prevent sticking—use shortening or softened butter along with flour for the best results.
Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This creaming process incorporates air into the batter, setting the stage for a fine, tender crumb.
Use a stand mixer or handheld mixer on medium speed for 5 to 7 minutes. Don’t rush this step—proper creaming is key to achieving the iconic texture of a traditional pound cake.
Add the Eggs and Extracts
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure a smooth batter. Scrape down the sides of the bowl between additions to incorporate all the ingredients.
Once all the eggs are mixed in, add both vanilla extract and either almond or lemon extract. The extract choice is yours—lemon brightens the cake, while almond adds a warm, nutty note. Some bakers even use both for a complex flavor balance.
Alternate Flour and Soda
Gradually alternate adding flour and 7 Up, beginning and ending with the flour. This means adding about ⅓ of the flour first, then ½ of the soda, repeating until all ingredients are just combined.
Mix on low speed and avoid overmixing—once the flour disappears, stop mixing. Overworking the batter can result in a dense or tough cake.
Pour and Smooth
Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. The batter should be thick and creamy. Tap the pan lightly on the counter to remove any large air bubbles.
Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the pan on the center rack of the oven and bake for 60 to 70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the thickest part comes out clean.
The top should be golden brown with a crack down the center—a telltale sign of a perfectly baked pound cake.
Cool and Invert
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes. This resting period allows the cake to firm up, making it easier to remove without breaking.
Invert the cake onto a wire rack and let it cool completely before slicing. Serve plain or dusted with powdered sugar. For extra indulgence, top with whipped cream, fresh berries, or a drizzle of lemon glaze.
Optional Glaze (If You Like It Sweeter)
If you’re in the mood for a glazed cake, this simple glaze adds an extra touch of sweetness and shine:
Ingredients for Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons milk or lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Whisk together the powdered sugar, milk (or lemon juice), and vanilla until smooth. Pour over the cooled cake, letting it drip down the sides.
Tips for Success
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Let your butter, eggs, and even the soda sit at room temperature before baking. This helps the batter mix more evenly and improves the cake’s rise.
- Do Not Use Diet Soda: Diet sodas contain artificial sweeteners and carbonation that can affect the flavor and texture. Stick to the classic sugary versions.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix until the ingredients are just combined. Overmixing activates the gluten in the flour, which can toughen your cake.
- Bundt Pan Care: For the best release, use a non-stick bundt pan and coat it well with butter and flour or baking spray with flour.
- Test for Doneness: Start checking your cake around the 60-minute mark. Ovens vary, and overbaking can lead to dryness.
Variations to Try
- Citrus Zest Twist: Add 1 tablespoon of lemon or lime zest to enhance the citrus notes.
- Glazed Lemon Pound Cake: Use lemon juice in the glaze for a tart-sweet topping.
- Mini Pound Cakes: Divide the batter into mini bundt pans or loaf pans—adjust baking time accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
- With Fresh Fruit: Serve slices with strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a refreshing contrast.
- Toasted: Lightly toast slices and serve with butter for a warm breakfast or snack.
- A La Mode: Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream and caramel sauce for a decadent dessert.
Storage and Freezing
- At Room Temperature: Store covered at room temperature for up to 4 days.
- In the Fridge: Keeps for up to 7 days when wrapped tightly.
- Freezer Friendly: Wrap in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
FAQs
Why is 7 Up used in this pound cake?
The carbonation in 7 Up helps leaven the cake, creating a lighter texture. The sugar and citrus flavor also enhance the overall taste.
Can I substitute another soda?
Yes. Sprite or Sierra Mist works just as well. Avoid dark sodas, which change the color and flavor.
Is almond extract necessary?
No, but it adds a rich depth of flavor. You can stick with just vanilla or switch to lemon extract depending on your taste preference.
What if I don’t have a bundt pan?
You can use two 9×5 loaf pans instead. Check for doneness around the 50–55 minute mark.
Why did my cake stick to the pan?
Improper greasing or using an old bundt pan can cause sticking. Always coat thoroughly and let the cake rest before removing.
This Classic 7 Up Pound Cake is the kind of dessert that turns simple pantry staples into an elegant, flavorful treat. Its buttery crumb and citrus-kissed finish make it ideal for any occasion. With just a handful of ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll bake a cake that’s as timeless as it is irresistible.