Mediterranean Lemon 7UP Cake 

This cake is soft, fragrant, and moist with a bright citrus flavor. The Mediterranean twist comes from using extra-virgin olive oil, which adds depth, richness, and a silky crumb. Perfect for gatherings, tea time, or a quick dessert that looks impressive with minimal effort.

⭐ Ingredients

For the Cake

• 1 box lemon cake mix
  (Vanilla works too for a softer lemon taste.)
• 1 cup 7UP (not diet)
• ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon zest
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

For the Lemon Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2–3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• Optional: 1–2 tsp 7UP for extra shine and drizzle-friendly consistency

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prepare the Batter

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a bundt pan or 9×13 pan with butter or cooking spray.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together:
   • cake mix
   • eggs
   • olive oil
   • 7UP
   • lemon zest
   • vanilla (optional)
4. Mix just until smooth.
   Tip: Do not overmix — this keeps the cake fluffy and airy.

2. Bake the Cake

• Pour the batter into your prepared pan.
• Bake:
  • Bundt pan: 40–45 minutes
  • 9×13 pan: 28–32 minutes
• The cake is ready when a toothpick comes out clean and the top springs back lightly.

3. Make the Lemon Glaze

• In a bowl, whisk together:
  • powdered sugar
  • lemon juice
  • lemon zest
  • optional splash of 7UP
• Adjust thickness:
  • More sugar → thicker and whiter
  • More lemon juice → thinner and tangier

4. Glaze and Serve

1. Cool the cake for 10 minutes (important for structure).
2. Drizzle the glaze over the warm cake so it melts in beautifully.
3. Optional topping:
   • Crushed pistachios
   • Thin lemon slices
   • A sprinkle of extra zest

Serve warm or at room temperature.

🍋 Mediterranean Notes

• Extra-virgin olive oil gives the cake a luxurious, moist crumb while staying light.
• Lemon zest adds natural citrus fragrance without artificial taste.
• Pistachio topping brings classic Mediterranean flair and crunch.

❓ Q&A Section

Q1: Can I use Sprite instead of 7UP?

Yes! Any lemon-lime soda works. Just avoid diet versions — they affect texture and moisture.

Q2: Can I replace olive oil with vegetable oil?

Yes, but olive oil adds a richer Mediterranean flavor. Use a mild olive oil for best results.

Q3: How can I make the cake extra lemony?

Add:

• 1 more tablespoon lemon zest
• ½ tsp lemon extract (optional)
• Use more lemon juice in the glaze

Q4: How do I store the cake?

• At room temperature: 3 days
• In fridge: 5 days
• Freeze (un-glazed): up to 2 months

Q5: Can I make cupcakes instead?

Absolutely! Bake at 350°F for 16–18 minutes.

Q6: Why use 7UP?

It lightens the batter, adds moisture, and creates the fluffy, airy “bakery-style” texture.