Classic 7UP Pound Cake – A Timeless Southern Dessert

There’s nothing quite like a classic pound cake—rich, buttery, and tender, with a fine crumb that melts in your mouth. But if you’ve never tried the Classic 7UP Pound Cake, you’re in for a real treat. This Southern favorite takes the traditional pound cake and adds a sparkling twist: a full cup of 7UP (or any lemon-lime soda like Sprite or Sierra Mist). The soda not only lightens the texture but also gives the cake a subtle citrus lift that balances beautifully with the buttery richness.

This recipe has been passed down through generations, often appearing on Sunday tables, holiday spreads, and family reunions. It’s one of those old-fashioned cakes that feels nostalgic and comforting, yet still impressive enough to serve at any gathering. Best of all, it’s simple to make—no fancy ingredients, no frosting required (though it pairs beautifully with a glaze or whipped cream).

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both elegant and easy, this Classic 7UP Pound Cake is exactly what you need.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s the ingredient list for this timeless recipe:

• 1 ¼ cups butter, softened

• 3 cups sugar

• 5 eggs

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2 teaspoons almond (or lemon) extract

• 3 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 cup 7UP, Sprite, or Sierra Mist

These ingredients combine to create the perfect balance of buttery richness and light citrusy flavor. Let’s break down why each one matters.

Ingredient Notes

• Butter: Provides the signature richness and dense yet tender crumb of a pound cake. Use real butter, not margarine, for best results.

• Sugar: Sweetens and helps create the golden crust. Creaming it with butter incorporates air, making the cake fluffy.

• Eggs: Act as binders while adding richness and structure.

• Extracts: Vanilla brings warmth, while almond (or lemon) extract adds depth and brightness. Almond gives a nutty sophistication, lemon boosts the citrusy soda notes.

• Flour: Provides structure. Stick with all-purpose flour for best texture.

• 7UP (or any lemon-lime soda): The star ingredient! Adds a light lift and a subtle lemon-lime flavor. The carbonation and sugar in the soda help keep the cake moist and soft.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps for the perfect Classic 7UP Pound Cake:

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan thoroughly, making sure every crevice is coated to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture is pale, light, and fluffy. This step usually takes 4–5 minutes with an electric mixer on medium speed.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Extracts

Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This ensures the batter emulsifies properly and doesn’t split. Once the eggs are incorporated, stir in the vanilla and almond (or lemon) extract.

Step 4: Incorporate Flour and Soda

Gradually add the flour, alternating with the 7UP. Begin and end with the flour (flour → soda → flour → soda → flour). This technique helps maintain structure without overdeveloping gluten. Mix only until just combined.

Step 5: Pour and Bake

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared bundt pan. Smooth the top with a spatula, then bake for 60–70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before carefully inverting it onto a wire rack. Let it cool completely before slicing. Serve plain, with a dusting of powdered sugar, or dressed up with whipped cream and fresh berries.

Why This Recipe Works

The Classic 7UP Pound Cake has stood the test of time for a reason. Here’s why it’s so beloved:

• The soda makes it lighter. Traditional pound cakes can be dense, but the carbonation in the 7UP gives this cake a softer crumb.

• Flavor balance. The buttery richness is perfectly offset by the lemon-lime notes, making each bite refreshing.

• Simple ingredients, big results. No complicated steps, no hard-to-find ingredients—just pantry staples and soda.

• Versatile serving. It’s delicious plain, but can easily be dressed up for special occasions.

Expert Baking Tips

• Room temperature ingredients. Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. This helps them mix smoothly into the batter.

• Cream thoroughly. Don’t rush the butter and sugar step. Proper creaming introduces air, giving the cake its lightness.

• Don’t overmix. Once you add the flour and soda, mix gently. Overmixing can make the cake tough.

• Pan preparation. Grease and flour every nook of your bundt pan. Pound cakes are notorious for sticking if not prepared properly.

• Cool before slicing. Let the cake cool completely for clean slices and the best texture.

Delicious Variations

Want to change things up? Try these twists:

1. Glazed 7UP Pound Cake
   Mix powdered sugar, lemon juice, and a splash of 7UP for a simple glaze. Drizzle over the cooled cake for extra sweetness and shine.

2. Lemon Lover’s Version
   Use lemon extract instead of almond and add fresh lemon zest to the batter.

3. Coconut 7UP Pound Cake
   Stir shredded coconut into the batter and top with a coconut glaze.

4. Berry Topping
   Serve slices with macerated strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a fresh finish.

5. Cream Cheese Frosting
   Top with tangy cream cheese frosting for a richer dessert.

Troubleshooting Guide

How to Store Classic 7UP Pound Cake

• Room Temperature: Store tightly wrapped or in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to 1 week; bring to room temp before serving for best flavor.

• Freezer: Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Simple: Enjoy a slice plain with coffee or tea.

• Dressed Up: Add whipped cream and berries for a light, refreshing dessert.

• Decadent: Top with ice cream and caramel sauce.

• Festive: Dust with powdered sugar for holidays and gatherings.

Nutrition Snapshot (per slice, approx.)

• Calories: 420–450

• Carbohydrates: 55g

• Fat: 20g

• Protein: 5g

(Values may vary depending on portion size and add-ins.)

Final Thoughts

The Classic 7UP Pound Cake is a dessert that never goes out of style. Rich, buttery, with just the right touch of citrusy brightness, it’s a cake that feels both indulgent and comforting. Whether you’re baking for Sunday supper, a family reunion, or a holiday celebration, this cake is sure to impress.

Best of all, it’s as easy as it is delicious—no complicated steps, just simple ingredients and a tried-and-true method. Serve it plain for an everyday treat or dress it up with glaze, fruit, or cream for special occasions.

If you’ve been searching for a dessert that’s nostalgic, versatile, and always a crowd-pleaser, this Classic 7UP Pound Cake deserves a place in your recipe collection.

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