The Ultimate Mountain Dew Cake: A Zesty Citrus Celebration

Prepare for a delightful surprise with our Mountain Dew Cake recipe! This incredibly moist and flavorful citrus cake is a true showstopper, perfect for spring gatherings, Easter celebrations, summer parties, or any time you crave a bright, zesty dessert. Imagine a cake so tender it practically melts in your mouth, infused with the vibrant tang of lemon and a hint of unexpected effervescence from the classic soda. It’s not just a cake; it’s an experience, guaranteed to spark conversations and leave a lasting impression on your taste buds. Get ready to bake a cake that defies expectations and delivers pure, unadulterated joy with every forkful.

Why Mountain Dew is Your Secret Ingredient for a Spectacular Cake

Using Mountain Dew in a cake might sound unconventional, but it’s the secret to achieving an exceptionally light, airy, and moist texture with a fantastic citrus punch. This iconic lemon-lime flavored soda is more than just a drink; its unique properties make it an ideal baking ingredient. The carbonation in Mountain Dew contributes to the cake’s tender crumb, acting as a gentle leavening agent. Meanwhile, its sugar content provides natural sweetness, and its distinct citrus flavor eliminates the need for extra sweeteners or artificial flavorings, infusing the cake with a refreshing zing. It’s truly a magical component that transforms a simple cake mix into an extraordinary dessert, adding both moisture and a unique flavor profile.

Beyond its culinary benefits, the history of Mountain Dew itself is quite fascinating, adding another layer of intrigue to this recipe. Did you know that “Mountain Dew” was originally a slang term for moonshine? The soda was first created in the Smoky Mountains by two brothers who sought a delicious mixer for whiskey. The original formula was clear and caffeine-free – quite different from the vibrant, lime-green beverage we know today! Over the years, after being sold to Tip Corporation and later acquired by Pepsi, Mountain Dew evolved dramatically in flavor and appearance. This rich history makes telling guests about your secret ingredient all the more fun – watch their expressions change from curiosity to awe once they taste the incredible results and discover the unexpected ingredient.

Today, Mountain Dew boasts a wide array of flavors, opening up a world of possibilities for this cake. While we’ve perfected this recipe with the original Mountain Dew for its classic lemon-lime notes, feel free to experiment with other varieties if you’re feeling adventurous and want to explore new flavor combinations. The result is always a cake so moist and flavorful, it rivals any from-scratch recipe. My husband, a tough critic, was utterly amazed the first time he tried it, praising its unparalleled taste and delightful texture, asking for seconds almost immediately. It’s the perfect unexpected dessert for spring, summer, or any season that calls for a bright, refreshing treat.

Crafting the Perfect Mountain Dew Glaze

No Mountain Dew Cake is complete without its signature glaze! Our Mountain Dew Icing Glaze is not just delicious; it’s the crowning jewel that adds another layer of citrusy sweetness and visual appeal. The beauty of this glaze lies in its simplicity and versatility. You can opt for a delicate drizzle, allowing excess icing to cascade off the cake onto a rack, creating an elegant finish that lightly coats each slice. Or, for a truly decadent experience, embrace the “icing lake” method, where a generous pool of glaze gathers in the center and oozes out with each slice. This ensures every bite is thoroughly coated in sweet, zesty goodness, and guests can always scoop up an extra helping from the platter if they desire.

The texture of your glaze can be easily adjusted to your preference. A thicker glaze creates a more opaque, substantial coating, while adding a little extra Mountain Dew will thin it out for a more translucent, delicate drip. Whether you prefer a uniform cascade or an indulgent pool, the Mountain Dew glaze brightens the entire cake, elevating its flavor profile and making it utterly irresistible. It’s the perfect complement to the cake’s moist crumb, adding a delightful tang that balances the sweetness beautifully and leaves a refreshing aftertaste. This simple, two-ingredient glaze is the perfect finishing touch, transforming a great cake into an unforgettable dessert.

Gather Your Ingredients for This Easy Mountain Dew Cake

One of the many charms of this Mountain Dew Cake is its wonderfully simple ingredient list. You’ll be amazed at how a few basic items combine to create such a spectacular dessert. The convenience of a cake mix coupled with the unique addition of Mountain Dew makes this recipe accessible to bakers of all skill levels. Here’s a quick overview of what you’ll need; precise measurements and step-by-step instructions are detailed in the full recipe card below.

For the Mountain Dew Cake

• Mountain Dew Soda: The original lemon-lime flavor is highly recommended for its classic taste and vibrant contribution to the cake’s zest.
• Lemon Cake Mix: A standard 15.25-ounce box provides the perfect base, complementing the soda’s citrus notes beautifully.
• Large Eggs: Essential for structure and richness, binding the ingredients together for a tender crumb.
• Vegetable Oil: Adds moisture and contributes to the cake’s wonderfully soft texture. Any neutral-flavored oil will work.

For the Zesty Glaze

• Confectioners’ Powdered Sugar: The base for our sweet glaze. Ensure it’s fresh and sifted if clumpy for a smooth consistency.
• Mountain Dew Soda: Just a small amount is needed to create a pourable, flavorful glaze. Adjust to your desired thickness.

Optional Garnishes for a Festive Touch

• Fresh Berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries) for a pop of color and natural sweetness.
• Thinly Sliced Lemons or Limes for an elegant and aromatic finish.
• Shredded Coconut for added texture and a hint of tropical flavor.
• Fresh Mint Leaves for a sophisticated touch and refreshing aroma.

Essential Equipment for Baking Your Mountain Dew Cake

Having the right tools makes baking this delicious cake even easier and more enjoyable. These items are commonly found in most kitchens, ensuring a smooth baking process and a perfectly shaped cake with minimal effort:

• Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: Either electric mixer will work beautifully to combine your ingredients quickly and thoroughly, ensuring a smooth, lump-free batter. A stand mixer offers hands-free convenience, while a hand mixer provides great control and is perfect for smaller kitchens.
• Bundt Cake Pan: The classic choice for this elegant cake. Its fluted design creates a beautiful, intricate presentation without requiring any special decorating skills. Ensure you have a good quality pan and remember to grease and flour it thoroughly to prevent the cake from sticking – a crucial step for a clean release.
• Large Mixing Bowl: Essential for comfortably mixing the cake batter without spills. Choose one that allows ample space for ingredients and the mixer.
• Medium Bowl: Perfect for whisking together your glaze ingredients, allowing you to achieve the ideal consistency easily.
• Whisk: A simple hand whisk is perfect for smoothly combining the glaze until it reaches the desired pourable or drizzle consistency.
• Cake Server: To elegantly portion out slices of your finished cake, ensuring each piece maintains its shape and beauty.
• Cake Plate or Platter: For a stunning presentation of your Mountain Dew Cake. A beautiful platter elevates the dessert and makes it ready for any table.
• Wire Cooling Rack: Crucial for allowing the cake to cool completely and evenly after baking. This prevents the bottom from becoming soggy and helps the glaze set perfectly.

Step-by-Step Mountain Dew Cake Recipe: Simple & Delicious

Creating this irresistible Mountain Dew Cake is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a perfectly moist and flavorful result that will impress everyone. Remember to consult the full recipe card at the end of this post for detailed measurements and any additional tips to ensure your baking success.

Cake Preparation

1. Preheat Your Oven & Prepare Pan: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, generously grease and flour your Bundt cake pan, ensuring every crevice is coated to prevent the cake from sticking. A good trick is to use a baking spray with flour, or butter and then dust with flour, tapping out any excess.
2. Combine Cake Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the entire box of lemon cake mix, the Mountain Dew soda, vegetable oil, and eggs. This simple combination is where the magic begins, transforming basic ingredients into something extraordinary.



3. Mix the Batter Until Smooth: Using your hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the ingredients together on medium speed. Mix until the cake batter is well combined and smooth, making sure there are no dry pockets of cake mix adhering to the bottom or sides of the bowl. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is thoroughly incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tougher cake; mix just until combined.



4. Pour Batter and Bake: Carefully pour the prepared batter evenly into your greased and floured Bundt cake pan. Gently tap the pan on the counter a couple of times to release any trapped air bubbles, which helps create an even crumb. Bake for approximately 40-45 minutes, or until a wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the thickest part of the cake comes out clean, indicating it’s fully cooked.



5. Cool the Cake Properly: Once baked, remove the Bundt cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes on a wire rack. This allows the cake to firm up slightly before inverting. Then, carefully invert the cake onto the wire cooling rack and allow it to cool completely before applying the glaze. This step is crucial to ensure the glaze sets properly and doesn’t simply melt off the warm cake.

Mountain Dew Glaze Preparation & Application

1. Make the Glaze: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the confectioners’ powdered sugar and a quarter cup of Mountain Dew soda. Whisk thoroughly until smooth and all lumps are gone. Start with a quarter cup, and then gradually add more Mountain Dew, a teaspoon at a time, until you achieve your desired consistency. For a thicker glaze that coats more opaquely, use less soda; for a thinner, more pourable glaze that drips elegantly, add a little more.



2. Glaze the Cake: Once the cake is completely cool, it’s time for the final touch. Place the cooled cake on your chosen serving platter or, for easier cleanup, over a wire rack set on a baking sheet to catch any drips. You can either drizzle the glaze elegantly over the cake, letting it run naturally down the sides, or pour a generous amount directly into the center of the Bundt cake, creating a delicious “glaze pool” that will spill out enticingly when sliced. We often love letting the glaze pool around the cake, ensuring every guest can enjoy an extra scoop of zesty goodness with their slice.

Serve immediately and watch your guests be amazed by this surprisingly simple yet incredibly flavorful dessert!

Preparation and Storage Tips for Your Mountain Dew Cake

Planning ahead or managing leftovers is easy with this versatile Mountain Dew Cake. These simple tips will help you keep your cake fresh and delicious for longer, ensuring you can enjoy its zesty flavor whenever a craving strikes.

Make Ahead

To simplify your event planning, you can bake the Mountain Dew Cake a day or even two in advance. Store the cooled, unglazed cake properly (as detailed below). Then, on the day of serving, quickly prepare and apply the fresh glaze. This ensures the cake tastes its best, and the glaze is perfectly set for your guests, minimizing last-minute stress.

Storage

Once cooled and glazed, this cake can be stored at room temperature on your countertop for up to four days. To maintain its delightful moisture and prevent it from drying out, ensure it’s wrapped snugly in plastic wrap or placed in an airtight container. Since it contains no dairy components (apart from what might be in the cake mix itself, which is generally stable), it holds up exceptionally well without refrigeration for short periods.

Freezing for Future Enjoyment

Have extra cake or want to prepare it far in advance for a future occasion? The Mountain Dew Cake freezes beautifully for up to three months. For best results, freeze individual slices or the whole cake without the glaze. Wrap it tightly in several layers of plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This double-layer protection is key to preventing freezer burn and preserving its fresh taste and tender texture.

How to Reheat (Thawing)

When you’re ready to enjoy frozen leftovers, simply transfer the cake or individual slices from the freezer to your countertop. Allow it to thaw slowly at room temperature for a few hours. This gentle thawing process helps maintain the cake’s moist texture. If you froze it without glaze, you can quickly whip up a fresh batch of Mountain Dew Glaze and apply it just before serving for that perfect finishing touch.

Unlock More Flavors: Recipe Variations & Pro Tips for the Best Mountain Dew Cake

While the classic Mountain Dew Cake is a masterpiece, its adaptable nature makes it perfect for creative variations. Experiment with different sodas, cake mixes, and dietary adjustments to make this recipe truly your own and cater to various preferences. These tips will help you customize your cake to perfection.

Creative Substitutions

• Swap the Soda: If Mountain Dew isn’t on hand, or if you prefer a different citrus profile, try Sprite or 7-Up for a similar light and refreshing soda cake. These lemon-lime alternatives will yield a comparable moistness and bright flavor. We’ve even used 7-Up to make incredibly fluffy 7-Up biscuits in the past, showcasing the versatility of soda in baking. For a unique twist, consider using Orange Crush for an orange-flavored cake with a vanilla cake mix, or even Dr. Pepper with a chocolate cake mix for a rich, surprising combination.
• Alternate Glazes: While the Mountain Dew Glaze is fantastic, a simple whipped topping like Cool Whip can also provide a light and creamy contrast. You could also try a cream cheese frosting for a richer dessert, or even a classic lemon glaze made simply with lemon juice and powdered sugar for an extra citrus kick.
• Pan Alternatives: No Bundt cake pan? No problem! This recipe adapts well to a 9×13 inch baking pan. Just be sure to reduce the baking time, as a shallower pan will cook faster; keep an eye on it and test for doneness with a toothpick. For Bundt pan users, I highly recommend a quality pan like the Analon Bundt Pan, known for its superior non-stick properties and easy-to-grab sides, making unmolding a breeze.
• Cake Mix Flavors: To minimize the lemon flavor and let the Mountain Dew shine, opt for a yellow or vanilla cake mix instead of lemon. The Mountain Dew will still impart its signature citrus notes and moisture, but the overall lemon intensity will be milder, allowing for a different flavor balance.

Dietary Adaptations

• Vegetarian & Vegan Options: This cake is naturally vegetarian-friendly. For a vegan version, ensure you use a vegan-certified cake mix (many are accidentally vegan, but always check labels carefully), replace eggs with a suitable egg replacer (such as flax eggs or commercial egg substitutes), and seek out powdered sugar explicitly labeled vegan, as some brands may use bone char in their refining process.
• Gluten-Free: Easily make this cake gluten-free by simply using your favorite gluten-free lemon cake mix. The rest of the recipe remains the same, providing a delicious and safe gluten-free treat for those with dietary restrictions.
• Sugar-Free: For those managing sugar intake, you can still enjoy this delightful cake. Opt for a sugar-free lemon cake mix and Mountain Dew Zero Sugar. Additionally, there are excellent sugar-free powdered sugar alternatives available, often made with stevia or erythritol, which you can use for the glaze.

Serving Size Options

• Smaller Portions: If you’re hosting a smaller gathering or prefer individual servings, consider baking this Mountain Dew Cake in mini Bundt cake pans or even cupcake liners. Distribute the batter evenly, and adjust baking time accordingly (typically shorter than a full-sized cake, usually 15-25 minutes). This makes for charming, perfectly portioned, bite-sized desserts.

Adventurous Flavor Twists

• Spicy Citrus Kick: Feeling bold and adventurous? Mountain Dew offers a Flamin’ Hot variety that blends citrus with a surprising cayenne pepper heat. Using this could create an incredibly unique and memorable cake for those who love a spicy-sweet combination and aren’t afraid to experiment with bold flavors!
• Other Soda Experiments: Don’t limit yourself to just lemon-lime! Think about using other fruit-flavored sodas with complementary cake mixes. Grape soda with a vanilla cake, or ginger ale with a spice cake could be exciting culinary adventures. The possibilities are endless when you start experimenting with different soda and cake mix pairings.

Perfect Occasions for Your Mountain Dew Cake

The Mountain Dew Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a versatile crowd-pleaser that fits perfectly into a variety of celebrations and everyday moments. Its vibrant citrus flavor and moist texture make it a delightful choice for:

• Easter Brunch & Celebrations: The bright, fresh flavors perfectly complement the spirit of spring and new beginnings.
• Birthday Parties: A unique and fun cake that stands out from the usual, offering a delightful surprise to guests.
• Summer Barbecues & Picnics: Its refreshing lemon notes are ideal for warm weather gatherings, providing a light and zesty dessert option.
• Office Potlucks & Parties: An easy-to-transport and universally loved treat that’s sure to disappear quickly.
• Graduation Parties: A celebratory cake that’s both impressive in flavor and simple to make, perfect for honoring achievements.
• Small Weddings or Bridal Showers: A charming and unexpected dessert option that adds a touch of whimsy and personal flair.
• Awesome Treat for Any Day: Why wait for a special occasion? Indulge whenever the craving strikes for something sweet and unique!
• Sunday Brunch: A delightful addition to a leisurely weekend meal, offering a vibrant burst of flavor.
• Spring and Fall Holidays: Its cheerful disposition and bright taste can lighten any holiday table, from Mother’s Day to a casual autumn gathering.
• Surprise Dessert: Impress friends and family with its secret ingredient and watch their delight as they discover the unexpected flavor!

More Irresistible Dessert Recipes to Explore

If you loved the simplicity and deliciousness of our Mountain Dew Cake, you’re in for a treat! We have a treasure trove of other easy and delightful dessert recipes that are sure to satisfy your sweet cravings and expand your baking repertoire. Check out these popular favorites:

• Fruity Pebbles Treats: A colorful, nostalgic, no-bake delight that’s perfect for kids and adults alike.
• Orange Dreamsicle Jello Salad: Light, creamy, and bursting with citrus flavor, a refreshing side or dessert.
• Cherry Kool-Aid Pie: A vibrant, no-bake pie that’s incredibly easy to make and bursting with fruity flavor.
• Lemon Icebox Pie: A classic, refreshing, and tangy no-bake pie, perfect for warm days.
• Piña Colada Poke Cake: Tropical flavors soaked into a tender cake, bringing a taste of paradise to your table.
• Lemon Cheesecake Bars: Zesty, creamy, and perfectly portioned, these bars are a delightful citrus indulgence.

Don’t forget to explore all our fantastic Yellow Cake Mix Recipes for more simple baking ideas that leverage pantry staples! You’ll also find a wide range of other culinary inspirations, including delicious copycat recipes for your favorite restaurant dishes, more amazing dessert recipes for every sweet tooth, and comforting Crock Pot Recipes for easy weeknight meals.

Stay connected with Tammilee Tips for our latest recipes, travel adventures, and foodie inspirations! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest for all our updates.

Mountain Dew Cake Recipe

A delicious, moist Mountain Dew Cake with a bright citrus flavor, incredibly easy to prepare for any occasion. This simple soda cake is a delightful surprise!

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Servings: 12
Calories: 269 kcal

Author: Tammilee Tips

Print Recipe

Ingredients

Mountain Dew Cake

• 15.25 Ounce Lemon Cake Mix
• 1.5 cups Mountain Dew Soda
• 4 Eggs
• ¾ cup Vegetable Oil

Mountain Dew Glaze

• 3 cups Confectioners Powdered Sugar
• ¼ cup Mountain Dew Soda (Add more if desired for thinner consistency)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175°C).

Mountain Dew Cake Instructions

1. Combine lemon cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and Mountain Dew in a large mixing bowl. Use an electric mixer to blend until smooth and well combined, scraping the sides of the bowl as needed.
2. Pour the batter into a thoroughly greased and floured Bundt pan. Bake for 40-43 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before inverting onto a wire rack to cool completely. This is crucial before icing.

Mountain Dew Glaze Instructions

1. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and ¼ cup of Mountain Dew soda. Continue whisking until you achieve a smooth, pourable glaze. If a thinner glaze is desired, slowly add more Mountain Dew, one teaspoon at a time, until the ideal consistency is reached.
2. Once the cake is fully cooled, drizzle or pour the glaze evenly over the top, letting it cascade down the sides. Alternatively, create a generous pool of glaze in the center of the Bundt cake for a rich, luscious effect when sliced.

Kitchen Tools

• Bundt Pan
• Hand Mixer (or Stand Mixer)
• Large Mixing Bowl
• Medium Mixing Bowl
• Whisk
• Cake Server
• Cake Plate/Platter
• Wire Cooling Rack

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts

Mountain Dew Cake Recipe

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 269 | Calories from Fat 135

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% Daily Value*

Fat 15g (23%)

Saturated Fat 12g (75%)

Trans Fat 1g

Cholesterol 55mg (18%)

Sodium 25mg (1%)

Potassium 21mg (1%)

Carbohydrates 34g (11%)

Sugar 33g (37%)

Protein 2g (4%)

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Vitamin A 79IU (2%)

Calcium 9mg (1%)

Iron 1mg (6%)

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* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.