Save A bright and fluffy sheet cake infused with lemon soda, topped with a tangy lemon glaze. Perfect for gatherings or an easy weeknight dessert.
I first tested this cake at a weekend cookout, and everyone wanted the recipe. The light texture and vibrant lemon taste made it a standout on the dessert table.
Ingredients
- Cake: 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder, ½ teaspoon baking soda, ½ teaspoon salt, 1 cup granulated sugar, ½ cup unsalted butter (softened), 3 large eggs, 1 tablespoon lemon zest, ¼ cup fresh lemon juice, ¾ cup lemon-lime soda (such as Sprite or 7-Up), ½ cup sour cream, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Lemon Glaze: 1 ½ cups powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 1 tablespoon lemon zest, 1 tablespoon lemon-lime soda
Instructions
- Prep:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), grease a 9x13-inch sheet pan, and line with parchment paper.
- Dry Ingredients:
- Whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
- Cream Butter & Sugar:
- Beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time.
- Add Wet Ingredients:
- Mix in lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until combined.
- Combine Mixtures:
- Alternate adding flour mixture and sour cream, starting and ending with flour. Gently stir in lemon-lime soda without overmixing.
- Bake:
- Spread batter in pan. Bake 22 to 25 minutes until toothpick tests clean. Cool completely.
- Make Glaze:
- Whisk powdered sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and lemon-lime soda until smooth.
- Finish:
- Pour glaze over cooled cake. Let set, cut into squares, and serve.
Save This cake became a family favorite when my kids helped drizzle the lemon glaze over the top. It's now a requested birthday treat in our house!
Serving Suggestions
Try serving with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an elegant finish.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for up to five days.
Variations
Swap lemon-lime soda for orange soda for a citrus twist, or add poppy seeds to the batter for extra texture.
Save Bright, sweet, and easy to make, these lemon soda cake squares add a cheerful touch to any celebration.
Recipe Guide
- → What makes the cake so fluffy?
The combination of sour cream, eggs, and lemon-lime soda creates a tender, airy crumb with light texture.
- → Can I use store-bought lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is ideal for bright flavor, but high-quality bottled juice can work when fresh isn't available.
- → Is the glaze necessary?
The lemon glaze adds tang and enhances sweetness, but you can serve the cake plain or with powdered sugar if preferred.
- → Can I substitute the lemon-lime soda?
Lemon-lime soda imparts lightness and citrus notes. Club soda or sparkling water can be used, though flavor will be milder.
- → Are these squares freezer-friendly?
Yes, the squares freeze well. Wrap tightly after glazing and thaw completely before serving.
- → What garnishes pair well with this dessert?
Try thin lemon slices, edible flowers, or powdered sugar for a decorative touch. Earl Grey tea also complements the flavors.