If you’re on the hunt for a nostalgic dessert that brings back all the fun and fizz of a classic Shirley Temple drink, the Shirley Temple Cake Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This cake takes the beloved cherry-and-lemon-lime flavor combo and transforms it into a moist, tender, and utterly irresistible bundt cake that’s perfect for celebrations or anytime sweet cravings strike. With a bright pop of maraschino cherry juice soaked right into the cake and a smooth, lemon-kissed glaze topped with cherries, this cake doesn’t just taste delightful—it looks charming too. Let me walk you through everything to make this crowd-pleaser a staple in your recipe collection.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several baking ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface. There is a tall green plastic bottle of 7UP soda at the bottom center. Above it is a box of Duncan Hines classic yellow cake mix with a picture of a two-layer yellow cake with chocolate frosting. To the left of the cake mix is a large clear plastic bottle of vegetable oil with a blue cap. Above the oil is a jar of maraschino cherries with a red liquid inside. Next to the cherries is a small box of vanilla Jell-O instant pudding. To the right of the cake mix, near the top, is a white box of Domino powdered sugar with blue and yellow labels. Below this is a small brown bottle of pure lemon extract. Below the extract is a small clear glass cup filled with a white liquid. At the bottom left corner, there is a white bowl holding three white eggs. The background surface has a worn wood look partially visible behind the marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Don’t let the simplicity of the ingredients fool you. Each element in this Shirley Temple Cake Recipe plays a crucial role in crafting its signature flavor and luscious texture. From the soda that adds gentle effervescence to the instant pudding that keeps it moist, here’s what you’ll gather before baking:

1 box yellow cake mix: The base that gives sweetness and structure, but white or French vanilla mixes work beautifully too.
3.4-ounce instant vanilla pudding: Adds richness and moisture to keep the crumb tender for days.
3/4 cups 7-Up (or any lemon-lime soda): Infuses light citrus flavor and a subtle fizz that makes this cake special.
4 large eggs: Help bind the ingredients and build the cake’s fluffy texture.
3/4 cup vegetable oil: Provides moistness without making the cake heavy.
10-ounce jar maraschino cherries, drained (reserve juice): The star flavor that defines Shirley Temple vibes, plus juice to soak into the cake.
2 cups powdered sugar: For crafting the sweet, shiny glaze that finishes the cake beautifully.
1 teaspoon lemon extract (optional): Amplifies the citrus notes in the glaze for extra brightness.
2-3 tablespoons milk: Used to thin the glaze to your perfect pouring consistency.

How to Make Shirley Temple Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by setting your oven to 325°F and thoroughly spraying a 10-inch bundt pan with nonstick cooking spray—make sure it’s the type with flour in it, like Baker’s Joy, to prevent sticking and help your cake release effortlessly after baking.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

In a medium bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, instant vanilla pudding, lemon-lime soda, eggs, and vegetable oil. Whisk everything together until smooth and well blended. The soda bubbles will give your batter a light texture, so don’t overmix too long; just enough to combine.

Step 3: Bake with Patience

Pour your batter into the bundt pan, spreading it evenly. Pop it in the oven for 45 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. You’ll see that gorgeous golden crust form, which is part of the charm of this cake.

Step 4: Infuse the Cherry Juice

Once the cake is out of the oven but still warm and sitting in the pan, take a wooden skewer or a similar tool and gently poke holes all over the cake. Then pour the reserved maraschino cherry juice over it, letting the juice seep into those holes and infuse the cake with cherry flavor and extra moisture.

Step 5: Cool and Remove

Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan. This resting time lets the cherry juice fully soak and the cake to firm up. Once cool, carefully invert the bundt pan to release your beautiful cake onto a serving plate.

Step 6: Prepare the Icing

Whisk together powdered sugar and lemon extract in a bowl. Gradually add milk—starting with two tablespoons—and keep whisking until you get a thick yet pourable glaze. If it’s too thick, add a splash more milk; too thin can be adjusted by stirring in a little more powdered sugar.

Step 7: Glaze and Garnish

Drizzle your luscious lemon glaze over the top of the cooled cake, letting it cascade down the sides. For the finishing touch, scatter a few maraschino cherries on top. The glossy red cherries paired with the bright glaze give the cake an inviting, festive look.

How to Serve Shirley Temple Cake Recipe

A golden brown bundt cake with a smooth white glaze dripping down its sides, sitting on a bright white plate. On top of the glaze, there is a ring of shiny red cherries each with long stems evenly spaced around the cake. The background shows a white marbled surface and a blurred glass with a red and white striped straw and a cherry inside. The overall look is clean and bright with a fresh and inviting feel. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Besides the classic maraschino cherries, you could sprinkle some finely chopped pecans or toasted coconut around the edges for a delightful crunch. A dusting of edible glitter or colored sugar sprinkles adds whimsy that kids and adults adore.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of lightly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to balance the citrusy sweetness. Fresh berries or a simple fruit salad can add freshness and a pop of natural color.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party, turn your Shirley Temple Cake into mini individual servings by baking the batter in cupcake liners and glazing with a cherry on top. Or slice it and stack thin layers with whipped cream and cherries between for a quick trifle-style dessert that wows visually and flavor-wise.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover Shirley Temple Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to maintain its moistness. If your kitchen is warm, storing it in the fridge is fine; just let it come to room temperature before serving to bring out the best flavors.

Freezing

You can freeze the whole bundt cake or individual slices by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready for a treat, thaw overnight in the fridge and add fresh glaze if needed because the icing may lose some texture in freezing.

Reheating

If you want a warm slice, gently microwave on low power for 15-20 seconds—or pop slices in a low oven (around 300°F) for a few minutes. This warms the cake without drying it out, making it feel freshly baked again.

FAQs

Can I use a different soda instead of 7-Up?

Absolutely! Any lemon-lime soda works perfectly for this recipe. Some people even like using Sprite or other clear citrus sodas to keep the flavor bright without changing the color of the cake.

Is the pudding mix necessary?

Yes, the instant vanilla pudding is key to ensuring the cake stays moist and tender, giving it a lovely texture that makes this recipe stand out from a standard cake mix.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

You can if you swap the yellow cake mix for a gluten-free version and confirm all other ingredients are gluten-free. Just be mindful that baking times might vary slightly.

How do I get the glaze just right?

Start with less milk and slowly add more until the glaze reaches a consistency that pours easily but isn’t too runny—think thick ribbons as it falls off your spoon. This will give the cake a beautiful glossy coat without pooling too much.

What if I don’t have a bundt pan?

You can use a regular 9×13-inch pan, just bake a bit longer, and keep an eye on doneness with the toothpick test. The presentation will be different, but the delicious Shirley Temple flavor will remain!

Final Thoughts

Making this Shirley Temple Cake Recipe is like inviting a little celebration into your home with every bite. It’s fun, easy, and offers those nostalgic cherry-lime flavors that never go out of style. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a slice of joy, I hope you give this recipe a whirl and enjoy every moist, cherry-sweet mouthful as much as I do!