Yogurt Cake Recipe

Yogurt Cake Recipe

Yogurt cake is a classic, simple, and delicious treat that is soft, moist, and full of flavor. It requires only a handful of pantry staples and is perfect for any occasion. Whether you want a light dessert, a sweet breakfast, or an afternoon snack with coffee or tea, this cake will satisfy your cravings.

This recipe is beginner-friendly, and you don’t need a mixer—just a whisk and a few bowls. The yogurt gives the cake a tender crumb and keeps it moist, while the vanilla extract adds a delightful aroma. You can enjoy it as is or customize it with various toppings and mix-ins.

Ingredients

• 1 cup plain yogurt (Greek or regular)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil (canola or sunflower oil works well)
• 3 large eggs
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a cake pan with butter or non-stick spray. You can also line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal. A standard 9-inch round or loaf pan works well for this recipe.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the yogurt, sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined. The yogurt helps keep the cake soft and adds a subtle tangy flavor that balances the sweetness.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Sifting prevents lumps and ensures even distribution of the leavening agent, which helps the cake rise properly.

Step 4: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until you have a smooth batter. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense instead of light and fluffy.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cake is ready.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve the cake as is, or add toppings such as powdered sugar, fruit, or a glaze for extra flavor.

Tips for the Perfect Yogurt Cake

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Eggs and yogurt mix better when they are at room temperature, resulting in a smoother batter.

Choose the Right Yogurt: Greek yogurt makes the cake denser and richer, while regular yogurt gives it a lighter texture.

Oil Instead of Butter: Using oil instead of butter keeps the cake moist and tender for days.

Don’t Overmix: Stir the batter until just combined to avoid a tough cake.

Check for Doneness: Every oven is different, so start checking the cake at the 30-minute mark.

Variations and Add-Ins

This basic yogurt cake is delicious on its own, but you can also customize it with different flavors and textures:

Lemon Yogurt Cake: Add the zest of one lemon and a tablespoon of lemon juice for a citrusy twist.

Chocolate Chip Yogurt Cake: Fold in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips for extra sweetness.

Berry Yogurt Cake: Add 1 cup of fresh or frozen berries, such as blueberries or raspberries.

Nutty Yogurt Cake: Stir in 1/2 cup of chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for a crunchy texture.

How to Store Yogurt Cake

At Room Temperature: Keep the cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

In the Refrigerator: Store it in the fridge for up to a week. Let it come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Freezing: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before eating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Flavored Yogurt?

Yes! Vanilla, lemon, or coconut yogurt can add extra flavor to the cake. Just be mindful of the sugar content in flavored yogurts.

Can I Make This Cake Without Eggs?

Yes, you can substitute each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water).

What Other Sweeteners Can I Use?

You can replace granulated sugar with honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar for a different taste and texture.

Conclusion

This yogurt cake is an easy, versatile, and foolproof recipe that’s perfect for any time of the day. With minimal effort and simple ingredients, you can create a moist and delicious cake that will impress your family and friends. Try out different variations and enjoy a homemade treat that is both comforting and satisfying!