Name: Perfect Southern Sun Drop Pound Cake Recipe (Easy)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 1 box lemon cake mix; 1 cup Sun Drop soda; 1 bag lemon instant pudding mix; 1 cup confectioners' sugar; 1 teaspoon lemon extract; 1 tablespoon butter (melted); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon almond extract; 1 pinch salt; 1/2 cup heavy cream

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There’s something undeniably comforting about the sweet, buttery aroma of a freshly baked pound cake wafting through the kitchen. This Perfect Southern Sun Drop Pound Cake Recipe (Easy) is a delightful twist on the classic, infused with lemony sunshine and a touch of nostalgia. With just a few simple ingredients, this cake is not only easy to whip up but also captures the essence of Southern baking, making it a perfect addition to any gathering or family dinner.

Imagine a dense yet moist pound cake with a zesty kick from the lemon. Each slice offers a burst of flavor that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Whether you serve it at brunch, a picnic, or as a dessert, this cake is bound to garner compliments and leave everyone asking for the recipe. Let’s dive into why this cake is such a crowd-pleaser and how you can create it in your own kitchen.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

This Perfect Southern Sun Drop Pound Cake Recipe (Easy) is a hit for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare using a box of lemon cake mix, which cuts down on prep time while still delivering that homemade taste. The addition of Sun Drop soda gives the cake a unique flavor profile that is both familiar and exciting.

The cake’s moist texture pairs beautifully with its vibrant lemon flavor, making it ideal for any occasion. Whether served plain, dusted with confectioners’ sugar, or topped with fresh berries and whipped cream, this cake is versatile and can be dressed up or down. It’s also a great option for those who may not have extensive baking experience, as the simple steps ensure a successful bake every time.

Ingredient List

To create your own Perfect Southern Sun Drop Pound Cake Recipe (Easy), you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 box lemon cake mix
1 cup Sun Drop soda
1 bag lemon instant pudding mix
1 cup confectioners’ sugar
1 teaspoon lemon extract
1 tablespoon butter, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon almond extract
1 pinch salt
1/2 cup heavy cream

Recommended Tools

To make the baking process smooth and enjoyable, gather the following tools:

Mixing Bowls: For combining your ingredients.
Whisk: To ensure your batter is well mixed and smooth.
Baking Pan: A bundt or loaf pan works perfectly.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
Cooling Rack: To allow your cake to cool evenly after baking.

Build Perfect Southern Sun Drop Pound Cake Recipe (Easy) Step by Step

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is vital for ensuring your cake bakes evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Grease your baking pan with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. If using a bundt pan, be sure to get into all the nooks and crannies.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the lemon cake mix, lemon pudding mix, and a pinch of salt. Whisk them together until well blended.

Step 4: Add the Wet Ingredients

Pour in the Sun Drop soda, melted butter, lemon extract, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Mix the ingredients together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.

Step 5: Incorporate the Heavy Cream

Gently fold in the heavy cream until the batter is smooth and creamy. This will enhance the cake’s moisture and richness.

Step 6: Pour into the Pan

Carefully pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it towards the end to avoid overbaking.

Step 8: Cool and Glaze

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely. After the cake has cooled, drizzle with a glaze made from confectioners’ sugar and a splash of lemon juice for an extra zing.

Vegan & Vegetarian Swaps

If you’re looking to adapt this recipe for a vegan or vegetarian diet, consider the following swaps:

Replace the heavy cream with coconut cream or almond milk for a lighter option.
Use a vegan butter substitute in place of regular butter.
For the eggs, if you’re using a recipe that includes them, substitute them with applesauce (1/4 cup per egg) or a flaxseed meal mix.

Cook’s Notes

For added flavor, consider mixing in some lemon zest to the batter.
If you prefer a less sweet cake, reduce the amount of confectioners’ sugar in the glaze.
This cake can be made ahead of time; it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

Prep Ahead & Store

If you’re planning to make this Perfect Southern Sun Drop Pound Cake Recipe (Easy) ahead of time, here’s how to prep and store it:

You can prepare the batter and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature before pouring it into the pan. Once baked, the cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Reader Q&A

Can I use a different soda instead of Sun Drop?

Absolutely! Any lemon-lime soda or citrus soda can work in this recipe if you want to experiment with different flavors.

What if I don’t have lemon extract?

If you don’t have lemon extract, you can use additional lemon zest or substitute with more vanilla extract for a different flavor profile.

How can I make this cake more festive for a party?

Consider decorating the cake with fresh berries, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a sprinkle of edible flowers for a beautiful presentation.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute the lemon cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix, and the rest of the ingredients should work well without any issues.

Before You Go

As you prepare to make this Perfect Southern Sun Drop Pound Cake Recipe (Easy), remember that the heart of Southern cooking lies in love and sharing. Whether you enjoy it yourself or share it with friends and family, this cake is sure to spread joy and delight. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake a cake that brings a taste of the South into your home!