Easy Lemon 7UP Cake
This Easy Lemon 7UP Cake is a nostalgic favorite that uses the carbonation and citrus oils of the soda to create an incredibly light, airy crumb without the need for complex leavening. The lemon-lime soda acts as both a flavoring agent and a rising catalyst, resulting in a cake that is exceptionally moist and bright.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 60–70 minutes
Yields: 12–15 servings
Ingredients
- 1 box (15.25 oz) Yellow Cake Mix
- 1 box (3.4 oz) Instant Lemon Pudding Mix
- 4 large eggs
- ¾ cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup 7UP (or similar lemon-lime soda)
- Optional: 1 tbsp lemon zest for extra zing
Lemon Glaze:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp melted butter
Preparation
1
Combine base ingredients
Standard mixing
In a large bowl, combine the dry cake mix, instant lemon pudding mix, eggs, and vegetable oil. Beat on medium speed for about two minutes until the mixture is thick and smooth.
2
Incorporate the soda
The secret to the lift
Slowly pour in the 7UP. Fold it in gently by hand or mix on low speed just until combined. You want to preserve as much of the carbonation as possible, as this helps the cake rise.
3
Bake
325°F (165°C)
Pour the batter into a well-greased and floured Bundt pan. Bake for 60 to 70 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
4
Cool and glaze
Final touch
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack. Whisk the glaze ingredients together until smooth and drizzle over the warm cake so it soaks into the surface.
Why 7UP works: The citric acid and carbonation in the soda react with the ingredients in the cake mix to provide a superior “lift” and a finer crumb than water or milk alone. It also provides a subtle, balanced citrus background that perfectly complements the lemon pudding.
