The Science Behind The Delightful Texture Of 7UP Cake
The nostalgic 7UP cake bubbles up as a favorite slice. The classic recipe has been a staple due to its simplicity and thanks to the carbonated soda, which boosts the science behind this baking marvel. Although making a soda-based pound cake is not like taking a chemistry class, appreciating the science behind baking is imperative.
Unlike savory recipes where a dash of this or a sprinkle of that help to bring a dish to life, baking requires precise measurements, sometimes combined in the right order. While some people might appreciate that a carbonated beverage can make a batter light and fluffy, it is more complex. Incorporating an acidic, carbonated beverage with leavening agents makes the carbon dioxide bubbles more pronounced.
Although various carbonated beverages can have a similar effect, 7UP does create a slightly different result. Southern Living believes that the carbonation level in the beverage is a reason. Others assume that the acid levels have an impact. Whether used with a box mix or a from-scratch recipe, the reality is that 7UP cake is a nod to baking's science.
Soda cakes have been a longstanding baker's favorite
Although some people's first baking experience is dumping box mix into a bowl with eggs, milk, and butter or oil, that has not always been an option. For the perfect rise or delicate crumb, the scientific combination of ingredients and reactions creates that dessert. When bakers had to rely on their own exacting ingredients, carbonated beverages helped to bubble up some delicious soda cakes.
As Southern Living discussed, soda has been a baker's shortcut. The recipes were not only shortcuts but also necessities. Long before the housewife turned to the back of the box for that baking hack, the bubbly beverage was a multi-purpose ingredient that could make quick work of that Sunday dinner.
While 7UP cake might be the most widely known concept, all types of soda can be used. Good Housekeeping suggests being thoughtful when pairing flavors. For example, a lemon-lime beverage can pair well with a vanilla or angel food cake, whereas a chocolate cake might be better served with a cola or a root beer.
Can you really make a cake with just two ingredients?
Some people look at a cake recipe and resign themselves to calling the local bakery to place an order. Luckily, a tasty, homemade cake can be made with just two ingredients: A boxed cake mix and a carbonated beverage. It might not be exactly the same as a traditional recipe for 7UP cake, but it is a handy baking hack to know.
Since the boxed cake mix carefully measures all the dry ingredients, it only requires the baker to incorporate the wet items. While the cake's texture will be altered due to fewer ingredients, it will still rise to the occasion.
From combining a vanilla cake with an orange soda for a creamsicle flavor to ginger ale with a spice cake for a warm, comforting flavor, there are many ways to experiment with flavor. And, for the person who forgot the bake sale, party, or is just craving cake, it is a way to put a freshly baked dessert on the table quickly. Your two-ingredient soda cake might not take home any prestigious awards, but it does show that anyone can be a baker with an easy-to-apply hack.