Description
This Easy Yogurt Cake is a moist and tender dessert that combines the tangy flavor of yogurt with a light, fluffy texture. Perfect for a simple yet delicious treat, this French-inspired cake requires minimal ingredients and effort, making it ideal for both beginner and experienced bakers. The subtle lemon zest and vanilla extract add a refreshing aroma and taste, while the dusting of powdered sugar on top gives it a delicate finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup plain whole milk yogurt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional Ingredients
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan thoroughly or line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the cake after baking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the yogurt, granulated sugar, and vegetable oil until the mixture is smooth and homogenous.
- Add Eggs: Incorporate eggs one at a time into the wet mixture, whisking well after each addition to fully combine and create a smooth batter.
- Flavor Base: Stir in the vanilla extract and the lemon zest if using; this will enhance the cake’s aroma and add a subtle citrus brightness.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and salt within the flour.
- Mix Dry into Wet: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, gently folding and stirring until just combined to avoid overmixing which can toughen the cake.
- Pour and Smooth: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula to ensure an even bake.
- Bake the Cake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.
- Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely to room temperature.
- Serve: Before serving, optionally dust the top with powdered sugar for a beautiful and sweet finish. Serve alone or with fresh berries, whipped cream, or fruit compote if desired.
Notes
- This cake pairs wonderfully with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a simple fruit compote.
- Greek yogurt can be used for a richer texture but may slightly alter the moisture and consistency of the cake.
- Lemon zest adds a bright, citrus flavor but can be omitted or replaced with orange zest for a different twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
