If you’ve ever wished for a dessert that’s as simple as it is delicious, you’re in for a treat with this Easy Yogurt Cake Recipe. This cake comes together quickly with humble ingredients, yet its moist texture and subtle vanilla flavor make it feel like a special occasion dessert. The yogurt not only adds a tender crumb but also brings a lovely tang that balances the sweetness perfectly. Whether you’re baking for a weekend brunch, an afternoon tea, or a cozy family dinner, this cake offers that comforting homemade charm with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward, each playing a vital role in creating the perfect Easy Yogurt Cake Recipe. From the tangy yogurt that keeps the crumb moist to the baking powder that helps it rise, every component counts in delivering balance and texture.
- Plain yogurt (5 ounces): Acts as the base providing moisture and a slight tang for a tender crumb.
- Vegetable oil (1/2 yogurt container): Keeps the cake soft and rich without overpowering the flavor.
- Eggs (2 large): Bind the ingredients and add structure while enriching the cake.
- White sugar (1 1/2 yogurt containers): Sweetens the batter just right, enhancing the vanilla and yogurt notes.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Infuses a warm, aromatic depth to the cake’s flavor.
- All-purpose flour (1 3/4 yogurt containers): Provides the cake’s structure and a tender bite.
- Baking powder (2 ½ teaspoons): Gives the cake a light, fluffy rise.
- Salt (1 pinch): Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
How to Make Easy Yogurt Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). While waiting, grease a 9-inch round springform cake pan—this ensures your cake will release perfectly after baking and keep its beautiful shape.
Step 2: Mix the Yogurt and Oil
Pour the plain yogurt into a mixing bowl. Using the empty yogurt container as a measuring tool, add half a container of vegetable oil to the yogurt. This clever trick means you don’t have to grab extra measuring cups, keeping the process smooth and simple. Set this mixture aside for the moment.
Step 3: Combine the Eggs, Sugar, and Vanilla
Add the two large eggs, white sugar, and vanilla extract directly to the yogurt-oil mixture. Beat everything together thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This is where your batter starts taking on its inviting texture and sweet aroma.
Step 4: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
Sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt, then add them gradually to the wet ingredients. Stir just until everything is combined—overmixing can make the cake tough, so it’s important to be gentle here. The batter will be thick, which means you’re on the right track!
Step 5: Bake the Cake to Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared springform pan, spreading it evenly to level the top. Place it in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This baking step creates a golden crust that gives way to a delectably soft and moist interior.
How to Serve Easy Yogurt Cake Recipe
Garnishes
While this cake is delightful on its own, you can elevate your serving by adding fresh berries, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of honey. A dollop of whipped cream or a spread of fruit jam also pairs beautifully, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
Side Dishes
Pair this cake with a hot cup of coffee or tea for an inviting afternoon pick-me-up. Alternatively, serving alongside a simple fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a complete and satisfying dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming twist, serve slices of the cake on colorful plates or stack thin layers with yogurt and fresh fruit in between for a trifle-style treat. You can even cut it into small squares for a bite-sized dessert at parties or potlucks—the easy yogurt cake recipe’s versatility makes it perfect for any occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your yogurt cake will stay fresh for up to three days if stored in an airtight container at room temperature. This helps preserve its moist texture and prevents it from drying out, so you can enjoy it day after day.
Freezing
If you want to make the cake ahead of time, freeze any leftover portions by wrapping slices tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen, it can last for up to two months without losing much of its delicious flavor.
Reheating
To enjoy the frozen cake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then warm individual slices gently in the microwave for about 15 seconds. This refreshes the softness without drying the cake, making it feel freshly baked all over again.
FAQs
Can I use flavored yogurt instead of plain?
While plain yogurt is best for maintaining a balanced flavor, using mild-flavored yogurts like vanilla can work, but be careful of added sugars or strong flavors that might overpower the cake.
Is it necessary to use a springform pan?
Using a springform pan is helpful for easy removal and maintaining the cake’s shape, but you can also use a well-greased 9-inch round cake pan if that’s what you have available.
Can I substitute vegetable oil with butter?
Yes, melted butter can be substituted for vegetable oil, though the texture might be slightly denser. Just use the same amount and be sure to cool the butter before mixing with the yogurt.
How do I know when the cake is fully baked?
The best way is to insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready. Avoid overbaking to keep it tender.
Can I add fruits or nuts to this recipe?
Absolutely! Adding fresh berries, chopped nuts, or even citrus zest can make this Easy Yogurt Cake Recipe even more special. Just fold them in gently before baking to keep the batter light.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Yogurt Cake Recipe is a wonderful reminder that simple ingredients can create something truly delightful. It’s a dependable go-to for all kinds of occasions, yielding a cake that’s moist, flavorful, and effortlessly charming. I can’t encourage you enough to give it a try—you might just find it becoming your new favorite to share with friends and family!
Print
Easy Yogurt Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Yogurt Cake is a simple and moist cake made with plain yogurt, vegetable oil, eggs, and basic pantry ingredients. The cake is light and fluffy with a subtle vanilla flavor, perfect for a quick dessert or snack. Using the yogurt container as a measuring tool makes the recipe straightforward and foolproof.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 (5 ounce) container plain yogurt
- 1/2 yogurt container vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 yogurt containers white sugar
- 1 3/4 yogurt containers all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 pinch salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a 9-inch round springform cake pan to prevent sticking.
- Combine Yogurt and Oil: Empty the plain yogurt into a large mixing bowl. Using the empty yogurt container as a measuring cup, measure and add 1/2 container of vegetable oil to the bowl. Set aside the bowl. Clean and dry the yogurt container for later use.
- Add Eggs, Sugar, and Vanilla: To the yogurt and oil mixture, add the 2 large eggs, 1 1/2 yogurt containers of white sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Beat this mixture well until fully combined and smooth.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Using the yogurt container, measure out 1 3/4 containers of all-purpose flour. Add the flour along with 2 ½ teaspoons of baking powder and a pinch of salt to the wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. The batter will be thick.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into the greased springform pan, smoothing the top evenly. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Notes
- The yogurt container is used as a convenient measuring tool for both wet and dry ingredients.
- Use plain yogurt for the best flavor and texture; Greek yogurt can make the cake denser.
- Be careful not to overmix the batter once the flour is added to keep the cake light and tender.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before removing the springform rim.
- This cake can be served plain or topped with fresh fruit, powdered sugar, or a drizzle of honey.
