Southern Sun Drop Cake

Southern Sun Drop Cake: A Burst of Sunshine in Every Bite

Transport your taste buds to the sunny South with our Southern Sun Drop Cake, a dessert that embodies the warmth and flavors of the region. This moist and citrus-infused cake is a classic in Southern kitchens, where the iconic lemon-lime soda, Sun Drop, takes center stage. Join us on a culinary journey as we guide you through the steps of creating a cake that not only captures the essence of the South but also brings a burst of sunshine to every bite.

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup Sun Drop soda
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon lime zest
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Glaze:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons Sun Drop soda
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice

Instructions:

  1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a Bundt cake pan.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Add Eggs: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
  4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  5. Alternate Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter and sugar mixture, alternating with the Sun Drop soda. Begin and end with the dry ingredients.
  6. Add Citrus and Vanilla: Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, lime zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until the batter is smooth and well combined.
  7. Bake to Perfection: Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
  8. Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, Sun Drop soda, lemon juice, and lime juice until smooth.
  9. Drizzle with Glaze: Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the top. Let the glaze set before slicing and serving.

Cook Notes and Variations:

  • Citrus Twist: Experiment with different citrus fruits like orange or grapefruit for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
  • Nuts Addition: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts to add a delightful crunch to the cake.
  • Coconut Flair: For a tropical touch, sprinkle shredded coconut on top of the glaze before it sets.
  • Candied Citrus Peel: Garnish the cake with homemade or store-bought candied citrus peel for an elegant presentation.

Keto Versions and Low-Carb Version:

Keto Version:

  • Almond Flour Base: Substitute almond flour for all-purpose flour in the cake for a keto-friendly option.
  • Erythritol Sweetener: Replace granulated sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol in both the cake and glaze.
  • Club Soda Alternative: Use club soda or sparkling water instead of Sun Drop for a low-carb option.

Low-Carb Version:

  • Almond Meal Option: Use almond meal instead of all-purpose flour for a lower-carb alternative.
  • Natural Sweeteners: Opt for natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup in moderation instead of granulated sugar.
  • Greek Yogurt Glaze: Replace the powdered sugar with Greek yogurt sweetened with a low-carb sweetener for a lower-carb glaze.

As you savor a slice of our Southern Sun Drop Cake, you’re not just enjoying a dessert; you’re experiencing a slice of Southern hospitality and the vibrant flavors that define the region. This cake, with its citrusy zing and moist crumb, is a testament to the simple yet impactful ingredients that Southern kitchens hold dear. Whether you follow the classic recipe or explore the keto and low-carb versions, the Southern Sun Drop Cake is sure to become a staple in your repertoire. So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and let the sunshine-infused aroma fill your kitchen. It’s time to create a cake that embodies the spirit of the South in every delightful bite.