Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cake is one of the easiest desserts you’ll ever bake. You don’t need fancy equipment or special skills—just a bowl, a whisk, and a few basic ingredients. The yogurt makes the cake wonderfully moist, while the mild flavor means you can enjoy it plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or dressed up with glaze or fresh fruit. It’s versatile, reliable, and always delicious.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- All-purpose flour
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Plain yogurt (Greek or whole milk)
- Granulated sugar
- Eggs
- Vegetable oil (or melted butter)
- Vanilla extract
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round or loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In another large bowl, mix yogurt, sugar, eggs, oil, and vanilla until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 8–10 slices.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Cooling time: 10 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Variations
- Add lemon or orange zest for a citrusy twist.
- Mix in berries or chopped fruit for extra flavor.
- Replace vanilla with almond extract for a different aroma.
- Make a glaze with powdered sugar and citrus juice to drizzle on top.
- Swap plain yogurt for flavored yogurt to add variety.
Storage/Reheating
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Freeze whole or sliced cake wrapped tightly for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature. To reheat, warm slices in the microwave for 15–20 seconds.
FAQs
Can I use Greek yogurt?
Yes, Greek yogurt works well and makes the cake extra moist.
What kind of oil is best?
A neutral oil like vegetable or canola works best, but melted butter can also be used for a richer flavor.
Can I make this cake without eggs?
Yes, substitute each egg with a flax egg or unsweetened applesauce.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, you can reduce the sugar by up to ¼ cup without affecting texture too much.
What toppings go well with yogurt cake?
Powdered sugar, whipped cream, fruit, or a simple glaze all complement it nicely.
Can I bake this in a loaf pan?
Yes, a standard loaf pan works—just increase the baking time by 5–10 minutes.
How do I know when the cake is done?
The top should be golden and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
Can I use flavored yogurt?
Yes, flavored yogurt can add a fun twist, but it may make the cake sweeter.
Is yogurt cake good for breakfast?
Yes, it’s light, not overly sweet, and pairs well with coffee or tea in the morning.
Can I frost this cake?
Absolutely—cream cheese frosting, buttercream, or even a simple glaze work beautifully.
Conclusion
Yogurt cake is a simple, classic recipe that delivers moist, fluffy slices every time. With minimal ingredients and endless variations, it’s a versatile treat that works for casual snacking or special occasions. Whether you enjoy it plain or dress it up with fruit or glaze, this cake is a delightful addition to your baking repertoire.
Print
Yogurt Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8–10 slices
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Yogurt cake is a soft, moist, and lightly sweet dessert made with basic pantry ingredients. It’s simple to prepare, making it ideal for beginner and experienced bakers alike.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup plain yogurt (Greek or whole milk)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round or loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, mix yogurt, sugar, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Add citrus zest (lemon or orange) for a fresh twist.
- Mix in fresh berries or chopped fruit for added flavor.
- Replace vanilla with almond extract for a different aroma.
- Top with a citrus glaze made from powdered sugar and juice.
- Use flavored yogurt to vary the taste profile.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
