Name: 7-UP Pound Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 1 h 35 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 3 cups granulated sugar; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup vegetable shortening; 5 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon lemon extract; 3/4 cup 7-UP soda (not diet)

A Southern classic with a fizzy twist! This rich and buttery pound cake uses 7-UP soda to add lift and a hint of citrus flavor. Moist on the inside with a perfectly golden crust, it’s a nostalgic dessert that never goes out of style. I love making this cake when I want something traditional yet slightly different. It reminds me of family gatherings and potlucks, always bringing smiles to everyone who tries it.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

3 cups all-purpose flour

3 cups granulated sugar

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

1/2 cup vegetable shortening

5 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon lemon extract

3/4 cup 7-UP soda (not diet)

Directions

I preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt pan.

In a large mixing bowl, I cream together the butter, shortening, and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 4–5 minutes.

I add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

Then I mix in both the vanilla and lemon extracts.

Gradually, I add the flour and salt to the bowl, mixing just until everything is combined.

Slowly, I pour in the 7-UP soda and continue mixing until the batter is smooth.

I pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan and smooth out the top.

I bake it for 70–75 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Once done, I let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Optional: I sometimes dust the cake with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple glaze before serving.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 75 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes

Servings: 12 slices

Calories: 495 kcal per slice

Variations

When I want a slightly different take, I swap out the lemon extract for almond extract to give it a nutty depth. I’ve also tried adding a bit of zest from a fresh lemon or lime to enhance the citrus notes. If I’m making this for a holiday, I sometimes top it with a citrus glaze made from powdered sugar and a little 7-UP.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftover cake at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, I wrap it tightly and refrigerate it for up to a week. It also freezes beautifully—I slice it and wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. When I want a slice, I let it come to room temperature or microwave it for 15-20 seconds.

FAQs

What does 7-UP do in this cake?

The 7-UP acts as both a leavening agent and a flavor enhancer. It helps the cake rise and gives it a light citrusy touch.

Can I use a different soda?

I like using 7-UP for its mild lemon-lime flavor, but Sprite or another citrus soda can work similarly. Just avoid diet versions as they don’t provide the same structure.

Do I need to use both butter and shortening?

Yes, I find that using both gives the cake its rich flavor from the butter and a tender crumb from the shortening. It’s a balance that makes the cake moist yet fluffy.

Can I make this in a loaf pan?

This recipe is best suited for a Bundt pan due to the volume of batter. If using loaf pans, I divide the batter between two pans and adjust the baking time accordingly.

How do I know when the cake is done?

I check by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready. The top should be golden and slightly crisp.

Conclusion

I keep coming back to this 7-UP Pound Cake for its nostalgic charm and unbeatable texture. It’s the kind of dessert that feels homemade in the best way, perfect for celebrations or just a treat to brighten up the week. Whether plain or dressed up, it never disappoints.

7-UP Pound Cake

Ingredients

Directions

Servings and timing

Variations

Storage/Reheating