
When you want to wow your family or guests without any fuss, this Sour Cream 7 Up Butter Bisquick Delight delivers every time This recipe brings a soft plush crumb and an irresistible buttery tang thanks to a few humble fridge and pantry staples Just a scoop of sour cream and a splash of citrusy soda transform a basic baking mix into an airy treat you will crave with your morning coffee or as a sweet snack
I tried this first on a rainy afternoon when I wanted something homey with minimal effort It quickly won everyone over and now it is requested for Sunday brunch or even easy desserts
Ingredients
- Bisquick mix: For foolproof rise and tender bite, choose a fresh box for best results
- Sour cream: Brings moisture, subtle tang, and gives the cake that melt in your mouth texture, use full fat for more richness
- 7 Up: Or any lemon lime soda makes the crumb airy and light while adding background citrus flavor, opt for chilled soda to prevent over activating the bubbles early
- Unsalted butter: Melted for that buttery flavor and super soft crumb, use good quality for real depth
- Sugar: Optional, gives a slight sweet lift, adjust to taste or skip if you want more breakfast biscuit vibes
- Vanilla extract: Optional, rounds out the flavors and adds warmth but not required for great results
- Zest of one lemon: For a sunny touch and aromatic freshness, always zest the lemon right before using for max flavor
- Pinch of salt: Balances the flavors and stops your cake from tasting flat, just a small sprinkle does the trick
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit or one hundred seventy five degrees Celsius and grease a nine by thirteen inch baking dish to prevent sticking and give a golden crust
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl thoroughly combine the Bisquick mix sugar if using and a pinch of salt whisking well to break up any clumps so you end up with an even texture and lift throughout the cake
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl whisk together the sour cream lemon lime soda melted unsalted butter and vanilla extract if using then stir in the freshly grated lemon zest this step helps the dairy and soda blend smoothly and infuse more flavor into the batter
- Combine Mixtures:
- Gently fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients using a spatula or wooden spoon be careful not to overmix leave some lumps and do not knock out all the bubbles so your cake rises light and airy
- Bake:
- Pour the batter into your greased baking dish smoothing the top with a spatula for an even bake place in the center of the oven and bake for around twenty five to thirty minutes until golden brown a cake tester or toothpick in the middle should come out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs
- Cool and Serve:
- Take the cake out and let it cool for about ten minutes in the dish this helps it set and makes slicing easier cut into squares and serve warm plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar or drizzle of honey for an extra touch

I am always amazed by how the soda transforms the texture of the cake and now every time I zest that lemon I think of my grandmother who would sneak a hint of citrus into all her baked goods just for me
Storage Tips
Let the cake cool fully before wrapping leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or storing in an airtight container The cake keeps well at room temperature for about two days or in the fridge for up to five days For longer storage freeze individual pieces wrapped in foil then thaw gently at room temperature You can warm cold slices in the microwave for that fresh baked feel
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have Bisquick you can make your own mix with all purpose flour baking powder and a bit of salt Greek yogurt works in place of sour cream and any mild lemon lime soda such as Sprite or generic brands can be used without changing the results For a richer flavor swap a splash of almond extract for half the vanilla extract
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm for breakfast with butter and honey or as part of a brunch spread It pairs beautifully with fresh berries or a citrus glaze For dessert it is lovely dusted with extra powdered sugar and served with whipped cream or ice cream When entertaining kids let them decorate with fun sprinkles or chopped fruit

This cake is all about comfort and nostalgia but it is also your invitation to experiment with flavor twists Enjoy creating your own memory around the table with this sweet simple treat
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What does 7 Up do in the batter?
The carbonation and citrus flavor from 7 Up add lightness and a subtle, fresh taste to the crumb.
- → Can I use diet soda or another brand?
Diet sodas or alternative lemon-lime sodas work, though sweetness and flavor may vary slightly.
- → How do I know when it's done baking?
The top should be golden and a toothpick inserted in the center will come out clean when it's fully baked.
- → What can I add for extra flavor?
Lemon zest and vanilla enhance brightness, while a dusting of powdered sugar or honey adds extra sweetness.
- → Can leftovers be stored?
Store cooled squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.