This Belizean 7UP Cake Recipe is a delightful twist on traditional sponge cake, infusing the classic flavors of lemon and vanilla with the fizzy sweetness of 7 Up. This cake has roots in home-style baking, where inventive cooks would use soda to add a unique flavor and lightness to their desserts. It’s a perfect reflection of Belize’s sunny climate and the creativity of its cuisine.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 60-70 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Number of Servings: 12 slices
Belizean 7UP Cake Recipe Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups butter or margarine, softened
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs (or 5 medium-sized eggs)
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 4 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon essence
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup 7 UP soda
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon 7 UP soda
Alternative Ingredients:
- For a dairy-free version, use plant-based butter.
- For a gluten-free cake, substitute the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend.
Belizean 7UP Cake Recipe Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a Bundt pan or a 9-inch deep round cake pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar with an electric mixer for 10 minutes until very creamy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well for one minute after each addition.
- Sift together the flour and cornstarch. Gradually add to the creamed mixture, alternating with the 7 Up, until all flour is incorporated.
- Stir in the lemon essence and vanilla extract until well mixed.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If necessary, bake for an additional 10 minutes and test again.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
For the Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and 7 Up until smooth.
- Drizzle over the cooled cake.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this cake as a refreshing end to a hearty Belizean meal, perhaps following a savory plate of stewed chicken with rice and beans. Pair it with a cup of Belizean coffee or a glass of cold milk.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximately):
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 20g (Saturated Fat: 12g)
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Sugars: 40g
- Sodium: 150mg
Tips and Tricks:
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best texture.
- For a lighter cake, you can substitute the butter with an equal amount of unsweetened applesauce.
Variations:
- Add a tablespoon of grated lime zest to the batter for an extra citrus kick.
- Mix in a half cup of coconut flakes for a tropical twist.
Have you tried making this Belizean 7-Up Cake? Share your experiences, photos, or any tweaks you’ve made to the recipe in the comments below. Let’s bake together and share the joy of Belizean desserts!
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