The Best 7 Up Cake: An Incredibly Moist & Flavorful Citrus Delight

Prepare to fall in love with our phenomenal 7 Up Cake recipe! Each bite of this cake promises an experience of incredible moisture and a burst of delightful flavor, perfectly complemented by a heavenly, rich lemon glaze. This isn’t just a dessert; it’s a nostalgic journey to the heart of Southern baking, made astonishingly simple.

The idea of adding soda to a cake might initially raise an eyebrow, but trust us when we say this 7 Up cake recipe is a revelation! It consistently delivers a wonderfully moist texture and a vibrant lemon-lime flavor that will pleasantly surprise you. Once you try it, this recipe is destined to become a staple in your baking repertoire, cherished for its irresistible taste and stunning presentation when baked in a bundt pan. For another show-stopping bundt cake, you might also enjoy our Strawberry Lemonade Bundt Cake Recipe.

What is 7 Up Cake? A Southern Classic Reimagined

The 7 Up Cake is a beloved Southern dessert, traditionally a pound cake variation known for its dense yet incredibly moist crumb and bright citrus flavor. Our rendition takes this classic to new heights of ease and deliciousness. We start with a convenient yellow cake mix and an instant lemon pudding mix, which work in harmony to elevate the lemon notes and guarantee an exceptionally tender texture. The crowning glory is an irresistible lemon glaze that cascades down the sides, adding a final touch of sweet, tangy perfection.

This dessert is designed for simplicity without compromising on flavor or presentation. By utilizing a cake mix, we skip the need for measuring out staples like all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, or butter, making it a fantastic option for bakers of all skill levels. It delivers all the richness and satisfying density reminiscent of a traditional pound cake, but with significantly less effort – allowing you more time to savor each delightful slice.

The Magic Behind the Moisture: Why 7 Up Works Wonders

Many wonder about the role of a carbonated beverage like 7 Up in a cake. The secret lies in its unique properties. The lemon-lime soda acts as a dual-purpose ingredient: not only does it infuse the cake with its signature citrus zest, but its carbonation also works as a leavening agent. The tiny bubbles released during baking help create a light, airy, and wonderfully crumbly texture, similar to what baking soda or baking powder would achieve. This means a cake that rises beautifully and maintains an incredibly moist interior, making every bite a pleasure.

Furthermore, the soda contributes essential liquid to the batter, helping to bind all the ingredients together and ensuring a smooth, uniform consistency. When combined with the instant pudding mix and vegetable oil, the 7 Up creates a powerful trifecta for moisture retention, resulting in a cake that stays fresh and delicious for days.

Simple Ingredients, Extraordinary Flavor

One of the beauties of this 7 Up Cake is its straightforward ingredient list. You likely have most of these on hand already, making it an ideal choice for a spontaneous baking session. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving the cake’s signature taste and texture.

For the Cake:

• Yellow Cake Mix: This forms the convenient and consistent base for our cake. Any standard brand will work wonderfully, providing a sweet and subtly vanilla-flavored foundation that pairs perfectly with lemon.
• Instant Lemon Pudding Mix: A true game-changer! Using instant pudding is key, as it not only intensifies the lemon flavor but also significantly contributes to the cake’s exceptional moisture and tender crumb. Do not use cook-and-serve pudding.
• 7 Up: The star ingredient! This lemon-lime soda adds a unique tang and acts as a gentle leavening agent, creating the characteristic light and moist texture. Sprite or any other lemon-lime flavored soda can be used as a substitute.
• Vegetable Oil: Essential for richness and moisture. Oil helps keep the cake incredibly tender and prevents it from drying out, even days after baking.
• Eggs: Room temperature eggs are crucial for a smooth batter and a lighter, more evenly baked cake. They bind the ingredients, add richness, and contribute to the cake’s structure.

For the Zesty Lemon Glaze:

The glaze is the perfect finishing touch, adding a vibrant lemon flavor and an elegant appearance.

• Powdered Sugar (Confectioners’ Sugar): The foundation of our smooth and sweet glaze. Sifting it before use is highly recommended to prevent lumps and ensure a silky consistency.
• Fresh Lemon Juice: This is where the bright, tangy lemon flavor truly shines. While bottled juice can be used, fresh lemon juice provides an unparalleled vibrant taste that elevates the glaze from good to extraordinary.
• Milk: Used to achieve the ideal pouring consistency for the glaze. Whole milk is preferred for its richness, but any milk you have on hand will work.

Unleash Your Creativity: Exciting Variations

While the classic 7 Up Cake is phenomenal on its own, this recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing for fun and delicious variations to suit any taste or occasion. Don’t hesitate to experiment and make it your own!

• Change the Soda: Explore different soda flavors! Try orange soda for an Orange Cream Cake, root beer for a unique Root Beer Float Cake, or even ginger ale for a subtle spice. Each soda will impart its own distinct flavor profile.
• Experiment with Pudding Mixes: The pudding mix is your secret weapon for enhancing flavor and moisture. If you swap out the 7 Up for a different soda, consider changing the pudding mix too. For example, a cherry-flavored soda would be fantastic with cherry pudding, or a lime soda with lime pudding for an even more intense citrus kick. Vanilla or cheesecake pudding mixes also pair well with lemon-lime sodas for a classic twist.
• Different Frosting Options: While our lemon glaze is a showstopper, feel free to switch up the frosting. A light and airy whipped cream frosting can provide a beautiful contrast to the dense cake. Alternatively, a rich buttercream frosting – perhaps flavored with lemon extract or zest – would offer a more indulgent experience. Cream cheese frosting is also a fantastic choice, adding a tangy sweetness.
• Boost the Citrus Zest: For an extra layer of bright flavor, incorporate lemon zest directly into the cake batter. The oils in the zest provide a powerful aromatic punch. You can also add a touch of lemon zest to the lemon glaze for an intensified citrus finish. A few drops of lemon extract can also be added to either the cake or glaze for an even stronger lemon presence.
• Add a Fruity Twist: Fold in fresh or frozen berries (like blueberries or raspberries) into the batter for bursts of fruitiness. Ensure frozen berries are lightly floured before adding to prevent them from sinking to the bottom.
• Nutty Crunch: For added texture, consider folding in a cup of chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter. This adds a delightful crunch that complements the moist cake beautifully.

Mastering the 7 Up Cake: Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to bake your perfect 7 Up Cake, from preparing the pan to drizzling the last drop of glaze.

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan: Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). This lower temperature helps the cake bake evenly and achieve its signature moist texture without drying out. Next, thoroughly grease your bundt pan with baking spray, then lightly flour it. This crucial step ensures the cake releases cleanly from the intricate design of the bundt pan without sticking.




2. Mix the Cake Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, instant lemon pudding mix, 7 Up soda, vegetable oil, and room temperature eggs. Using a handheld electric mixer, beat the ingredients on medium-high speed until thoroughly combined and smooth. Remember to scrape down the sides of the bowl periodically to ensure all ingredients are fully incorporated. Avoid over-mixing, as this can lead to a tough cake.




3. Pour Batter into Pan: Carefully pour the prepared cake batter into your greased and floured bundt pan. Gently tap the pan on the counter a couple of times to release any air bubbles, which helps prevent large holes in the cake.




4. Bake to Perfection: Transfer the bundt pan to the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes. The cake is done when a wooden toothpick or thin skewer inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. Baking times can vary, so keep an eye on your cake.




5. Cool the Cake: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the bundt pan for about 10-15 minutes. This cooling period is crucial for the cake to firm up and pull away from the pan’s sides, making it easier to invert. After this initial cooling, gently invert the pan onto a wire rack and lift it off the cake. Allow the cake to cool completely on the rack before glazing. This prevents the glaze from melting and becoming a soggy mess.




6. Prepare the Glaze: While the cake is cooling, prepare your luscious lemon glaze. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the sifted powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and milk until completely smooth and free of lumps. You can adjust the consistency by adding more milk a teaspoon at a time for a thinner glaze, or a little more powdered sugar for a thicker one. Aim for a pourable but not watery consistency.




7. Glaze and Serve: Once the cake is completely cool, place it on a serving platter. Generously spoon or drizzle the prepared lemon glaze over the top, allowing it to naturally drip down the sides. The glaze truly elevates the cake to the next level, adding a beautiful sheen and an extra layer of zesty sweetness. Slice and enjoy your magnificent homemade 7 Up Cake!




Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This 7 Up Cake is a star on its own, but a few thoughtful additions can make it even more special. Serve slices simply as an after-dinner treat or elevate it for a dessert spread.

• Fresh Berries: A scattering of fresh raspberries, blueberries, or sliced strawberries adds a pop of color and a delightful tart contrast to the sweet lemon cake.
• Whipped Cream or Ice Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream makes for a classic and indulgent pairing.
• Lemon Zest Garnish: A final sprinkle of fresh lemon zest over the glazed cake enhances its aromatic appeal and signals the bright citrus flavors within.
• Coffee or Tea: Enjoy a slice with a warm cup of coffee, a robust black tea, or a refreshing iced tea for a perfect afternoon pick-me-up or after-meal indulgence.

Frequently Asked Questions About 7 Up Cake

Here are some common questions and helpful answers to ensure your 7 Up Cake baking experience is a complete success.

Can I use a regular baking pan instead of a bundt pan?

Absolutely! This versatile cake bakes beautifully in various pan types. We’ve successfully made it in a 9×13 inch rectangular baking dish or two 8 or 9-inch round cake pans. If using a regular pan, adjust the baking time to approximately 20-30 minutes, keeping an eye on it, as shallower pans will bake faster. Always perform the toothpick test to confirm doneness.

What exactly does 7 Up soda do in baking?

The 7 Up soda plays several key roles in this cake. Firstly, its carbonation acts as a natural leavening agent, creating tiny air pockets that contribute to the cake’s light, tender, and somewhat crumbly texture, without relying solely on traditional baking powder or baking soda. Secondly, it provides essential liquid to the batter, helping to combine all the dry ingredients. Lastly, it infuses the cake with its signature lemon-lime flavor, which is further enhanced by the lemon pudding mix.

How can I ensure my cake doesn’t stick to the bundt pan?
Preventing your cake from sticking is paramount, especially with an intricately shaped bundt pan. The key is thorough preparation:
1. Grease and Flour Meticulously: Use a high-quality non-stick baking spray (one that contains flour is ideal) and ensure every crevice of the pan is coated. For extra assurance, dust the greased pan with a tablespoon of flour, rotating and tapping the pan to coat evenly, then tapping out any excess.
2. Allow for Initial Cooling: After baking, let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. This allows the cake to firm up slightly and naturally pull away from the sides as it contracts.
3. Gentle Release: After the initial cooling, run a thin, flexible spatula or a butter knife carefully around the edges of the cake and the inner tube of the bundt pan to loosen it further.
4. Invert and Tap: Place your serving platter or cooling rack upside down over the bundt pan, then carefully flip both over. Give the top of the bundt pan a gentle tap or two. The cake should slide out easily. If it doesn’t, allow it a few more minutes to cool in the pan, or try re-running the spatula.
Can I prepare this 7 Up Cake ahead of time?

Yes, this cake is excellent for making in advance! You can bake the cake a day or two before you plan to serve it. Store the cooled, unglazed cake tightly wrapped at room temperature. When you’re ready to serve, simply prepare the fresh lemon glaze and drizzle it over the cake for that perfect finish. This ensures the glaze is vibrant and doesn’t become absorbed into the cake over time.

Does 7 Up Cake need to be refrigerated?

No, this 7 Up cake does not typically require refrigeration. It stores beautifully at room temperature. We recommend keeping any leftovers covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight cake container. Stored this way, the cake will remain fresh and moist for up to a week.

Can I freeze this cake?

Absolutely! This cake freezes wonderfully, making it perfect for meal prepping desserts or saving for a later craving. Once the cake has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in a double layer of plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the cake at room temperature. We recommend preparing and applying the fresh lemon glaze just before serving for the best taste and appearance.

Pro Baking Tips for Success

Achieve the perfect 7 Up Cake every time with these expert tips and tricks.

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Always ensure your eggs and any other dairy ingredients (if adding to variations) are at room temperature before mixing. Room temperature ingredients emulsify better, creating a smoother, more uniform batter and a lighter, fluffier cake texture.
• Avoid Over-Mixing: Once the dry ingredients are just combined with the wet, stop mixing. Over-mixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can lead to a dense, tough cake that collapses during or after baking. Mix until just combined.
• Cool Completely Before Glazing: This is a non-negotiable step! Pouring glaze over a warm cake will cause it to melt, absorb into the cake, and create a soggy texture. Patience is key for that beautiful, distinct glaze layer.
• Generous Glaze Application: We believe a generous amount of glaze is essential for the ultimate 7 Up Cake experience! Feel free to make a little extra if you or your family love a thick, drippy glaze. The more the merrier!
• The Toothpick Test: Always use the toothpick test to determine doneness, as oven temperatures can vary. Insert a toothpick into the thickest part of the cake; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
• Bundt Pan Care: Invest in a good quality bundt pan. Darker pans tend to bake faster and can brown the crust more quickly, so you may need to adjust your baking time slightly.

More Easy Cake Recipes to Love

If you enjoyed the simplicity and deliciousness of our 7 Up Cake, you’ll love exploring these other easy and delightful cake recipes from our collection:

• Mandarin Orange Angel Food Cake Recipe
• Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe
• White Texas Sheet Cake
• Peach Dump Cake Recipe
• Melted Ice Cream Cake Recipe
• Crack Cake Recipe

We genuinely hope you enjoy making and savoring this incredible 7 Up Cake recipe. It’s a true crowd-pleaser that brings joy to any gathering. If you try it, please consider leaving a comment below and a star rating to let us know what you think! Your feedback helps us share more amazing recipes with our community.

7 Up Cake
5 from 8 votes
We absolutely love this 7 Up Cake. Each bite is so moist and delicious. Plus, the glaze is heavenly.
Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 55 mins
Total Time 1 hr 5 mins
Servings 9
Cuisine American
Course Dessert
Calories 569
Author Carrie Barnard
Ingredients
Ingredients for the Cake:
• 1 box Yellow Cake Mix
• 1 (4 oz) box of instant lemon pudding
• ¾ cup 7 Up
• ¾ cup Vegetable Oil
• 4 eggs
Glaze Ingredients:
• 2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 Tbsp milk
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Spray a bundt pan with non-stick cooking spray and gently coat with flour to ensure the cake can be removed easily.
3. In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, instant lemon pudding mix, 7 Up, vegetable oil, and eggs thoroughly with a hand held mixer. Scrape the sides of the bowl to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan.
5. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean or with tender crumbs.
6. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then gently invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
7. While the cake cools, prepare the glaze: In a separate small mixing bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and milk until smooth. Add more milk if a thinner consistency is desired.
8. Once the cake is completely cool, pour the glaze evenly over the cake and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories 569kcal,
Carbohydrates 91g,
Protein 5g,
Fat 22g,
Saturated Fat 16g,
Cholesterol 73mg,
Sodium 549mg,
Potassium 54mg,
Fiber 1g,
Sugar 66g,
Vitamin A 106IU,
Vitamin C 1mg,
Calcium 134mg,
Iron 2mg