If you love desserts that strike the perfect balance between moist and fruity, you are going to fall head over heels for this Yogurt Plum Cake Recipe. It’s a tender, flavorful cake bursting with the natural sweetness of ripe plums, lifted by the tangy richness of full-fat Greek yogurt. Each bite feels like a warm hug, with the gentle aroma of lemon zest and cinnamon adding layers of inviting complexity. Whether you’re baking for a special gathering or treating yourself on an ordinary afternoon, this Yogurt Plum Cake Recipe has a comforting charm that simply delights every palate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a round plum cake in a dark metal baking pan, placed on a white marbled surface with a white cloth underneath. The cake has one visible layer of golden-brown baked batter, studded with halved dark purple plums arranged in a circular pattern radiating from the center to the edges. The plums are slightly sunken into the batter, creating a textured surface with a mix of smooth and wrinkled plum skin. The cake is sprinkled with slivered almonds that are light tan and scattered evenly, adding a crunchy contrast to the soft fruit and cake. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Before we dive into the magic of making this cake, let’s talk about the straightforward, everyday ingredients that come together in an extraordinary way. Each one plays a crucial role—from the tang of Greek yogurt that keeps the crumb light and moist, to the fresh plums that add juicy bursts of sweetness and color.

Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake while also blending beautifully with lemon zest for a fresh flavor.
Lemon zest: Adds a bright citrus note that lifts the entire cake and pairs wonderfully with plums.
Eggs: Provide structure and richness, helping the cake rise and stay tender.
Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist without weighing it down, contributing to a tender crumb.
Full-fat Greek yogurt: The star ingredient that brings moisture, tang, and a velvety texture to the cake.
Vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with its warm, sweet aroma.
All-purpose flour: Forms the base of the cake, providing structure and bite.
Baking powder: The leavening agent that helps the cake rise beautifully.
Ripe plums: Bring juiciness, natural sweetness, and a gorgeous color contrast.
Light brown sugar: Adds a subtle caramel note, especially when combined with cinnamon on top.
Cinnamon: Offers a cozy spice that complements the plums perfectly.
Almond slivers (optional): Give a delightful crunch and nutty touch on top if you like.

How to Make Yogurt Plum Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Plums

Start by washing the plums and slicing them into wedges about one-third of an inch thick. This ensures they’ll cook evenly and release just the right amount of juice during baking to infuse the cake without making it soggy.

Step 2: Blend Sugar and Lemon

Massage together the lemon zest and granulated sugar for a minute or two. This little step is like coaxing out the oils from the lemon zest, which infuses the sugar with an irresistible citrus fragrance that will make your cake unforgettable.

Step 3: Whip the Eggs

Add the eggs to the sugar mixture and beat on high speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about a minute. This process aerates the batter, contributing to a tender and airy texture.

Step 4: Incorporate Oil

With the mixer on low, slowly pour in the vegetable oil and mix just until combined. This gentle folding keeps the batter smooth and lends moisture without heaviness.

Step 5: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients Separately

In one bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. In a separate bowl, combine the yogurt and vanilla extract. Separating these ingredients allows for a more even blend when combined later.

Step 6: Combine Half the Dry Ingredients

Add half of the flour mixture to the egg mixture and stir on low speed until just combined. Being careful not to overmix keeps the cake tender.

Step 7: Add Yogurt Mixture

Spoon in the yogurt and vanilla mixture, continuing to stir on low until the batter is smooth and silky. This creamy addition is what makes the cake so moist and tangy.

Step 8: Add Remaining Dry Ingredients

Finally, fold in the rest of the dry ingredients until just combined. The batter should be thick yet pourable, ready for the magic of baking.

Step 9: Prepare the Pan and Plum Topping

Line a 9-inch round springform pan with parchment paper, then pour in the batter evenly. In a separate bowl, toss plum wedges with brown sugar and cinnamon, coating them gently to infuse sweetness and spice.

Step 10: Arrange Plums and Bake

Press the plum slices evenly onto the top of the batter. If using, sprinkle almond slivers over the fruit for a lovely textural contrast. Bake the cake at 350°F for 45 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with only moist crumbs.

Step 11: Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool slightly in the pan before removing the springform ring and transferring the cake to a cooling rack. This cooling period is key to letting the cake set perfectly, making it easier to slice and serve.

How to Serve Yogurt Plum Cake Recipe

The image shows a round cake with a light golden brown crust and a soft, pale yellow inside. The top of the cake is decorated with dark purple fruit swirls and sprinkled with light tan almond slices, creating a textured, uneven top layer. A piece of the cake is placed on a white plate in the front, showing the fluffy and moist inside with purple fruit running through the top section. A woman's hand is holding a fork with a bite of the cake near the plate. The full cake sits on a clear glass cake stand in the background, placed on a white marbled surface. There are some small bowls, a knife with a light brown handle, a white cloth, and a blurred out bunch of small flowers in soft focus behind the stand. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey over the top complements the fruity sweetness beautifully. Fresh mint leaves can add a pop of color and a refreshing aroma that pairs well with the cake’s warm spices.

Side Dishes

Serving this cake alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream takes it to the next level as a dessert. For a breakfast or brunch twist, pair it with a cup of strong coffee or smooth chai tea.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, slice the cake and arrange individual portions on dessert plates topped with additional fresh plum slices or a spoonful of berry compote. Alternatively, serve it warm with a generous scoop of Greek yogurt to echo the cake’s tangy notes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Yogurt Plum Cake Recipe keeps well at room temperature for up to two days when covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. If you want to preserve the cake’s moisture and flavor, storing it in the fridge is a good option for up to four days.

Freezing

You can freeze the cake for up to three months by wrapping it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before serving for best texture.

Reheating

Warm slices gently in a low oven or microwave for 15-20 seconds. The plums become luscious and the cake regains that fresh-baked softness that makes it so irresistible.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat yogurt instead of full-fat Greek yogurt?

While full-fat Greek yogurt is ideal for richness and moisture, you can substitute with low-fat yogurt, though the cake may be slightly less tender and rich in flavor.

What if I don’t have fresh plums? Can I use frozen?

Frozen plums can work in a pinch but be sure to thaw and drain excess liquid to prevent a soggy cake. Fresh, ripe plums give the best texture and taste for this recipe.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out with only a few moist crumbs attached, but not wet batter. The cake should also spring back lightly when touched.

Can I use a different type of fruit instead of plums?

Absolutely! Stone fruits like peaches, nectarines, or apricots work wonderfully, as do berries if you prefer. Adjust baking time slightly if needed based on the fruit’s juiciness.

Is this cake suitable for gluten-free diets?

This recipe uses all-purpose flour, so it is not gluten-free as written. However, you can experiment with a gluten-free flour blend, keeping in mind texture may vary slightly.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about the warmth and comfort you get from making this Yogurt Plum Cake Recipe. The beautiful melding of tangy yogurt and juicy plums creates a treat that feels both homey and elegant. I can’t recommend it enough—whether for an afternoon tea, a festive brunch, or a simple way to brighten your day, this cake is sure to become a treasured favorite. Go ahead, grab those plums, and get baking—you’re in for a deliciously satisfying experience!