There is something truly comforting about a homemade cake that is both simple to make and irresistibly delicious, and this Easy Yogurt Cake Recipe captures that perfectly. Using just a few pantry staples and a clever measuring trick with the yogurt container, this cake comes together quickly with a moist, tender crumb and just the right hint of sweetness. Whether you are new to baking or just looking for a no-fuss dessert to brighten your day, this recipe offers a warm, flavorful experience that feels like a cozy kitchen hug with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Easy Yogurt Cake Recipe lies in its simplicity, with ingredients that are readily available and play a crucial role in creating its perfect texture and flavor. Each element works in harmony, from the tangy yogurt that keeps the crumb moist to the baking powder that ensures a light rise.
- Plain yogurt (5 ounces): This adds moisture and a subtle tang, making the cake tender and rich.
- Vegetable oil (half the yogurt container): Keeps the cake soft and extends freshness without overpowering flavor.
- Large eggs (2): Provide structure and help bind the ingredients together.
- White sugar (1 and a half yogurt containers): Sweetens the cake evenly while contributing to a golden crust.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds a fragrant, comforting aroma that elevates the overall taste.
- All-purpose flour (1¾ yogurt containers): The base that holds everything together, ensuring a tender crumb.
- Baking powder (2½ teaspoons): Helps the cake rise perfectly, making it light and fluffy.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
How to Make Easy Yogurt Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan and Preheat Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). This is crucial to ensure your cake bakes evenly from the moment it goes in. Meanwhile, grease a 9-inch round springform cake pan thoroughly to prevent sticking and make releasing the cake easier later on.
Step 2: Combine Yogurt and Oil
Empty the plain yogurt into a mixing bowl. Use the empty yogurt container as your handy measuring cup to add vegetable oil – simply fill it halfway and pour it into the yogurt. This clever trick keeps measurements consistent and cleanup minimal. Set this mixture aside once combined.
Step 3: Mix in Eggs, Sugar, and Vanilla
Rinse and dry the yogurt container so you can use it again to measure sugar in the next step. Add both large eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract to your yogurt and oil bowl. Beat everything together well until the mixture is smooth and all ingredients are fully incorporated. This step builds the base flavor and ensures the cake will be evenly sweetened.
Step 4: Stir in Dry Ingredients
Now, add the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt to your wet mixture. Stir gently just until combined — be careful not to overmix, as that can make your cake dense. The batter will be thick, but that’s exactly how it should be for a moist, tender texture.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pour the thick batter into your prepared springform pan and spread it out evenly. Pop the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The wait is always worth it for this beautifully golden, fragrant cake.
How to Serve Easy Yogurt Cake Recipe
Garnishes
This cake is a wonderful canvas for toppings. Dust it lightly with powdered sugar or add a drizzle of honey or lemon glaze for extra zing. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream are delightful touches that bring freshness and a splash of color to each serving.
Side Dishes
Pair this yogurt cake with a cup of your favorite tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. It also complements a light fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream beautifully, turning a humble slice into a special occasion.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the cake into generous wedges and serve on pretty plates for a tea party or family gathering. You can also cut it into smaller squares and serve on a platter as finger food at casual get-togethers. The mild flavor makes it versatile enough to pair well with both sweet and savory accents.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This yogurt cake keeps remarkably well at room temperature when covered, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert. Simply wrap it in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain its moist texture.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this Easy Yogurt Cake Recipe at a later time, freezing is a great option. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving to preserve freshness.
Reheating
To refresh your cake after storing or freezing, warm individual slices gently in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or in a low oven (around 300 degrees Fahrenheit) for 5 to 7 minutes. This enhances the softness and revives that just-baked feeling.
FAQs
Can I use flavored yogurt instead of plain in this recipe?
While plain yogurt is best for maintaining control over sweetness and flavor, you can experiment with mild flavored yogurts like vanilla or honey. Just reduce any additional sugar slightly to prevent it from becoming too sweet.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that is meant for baking. The texture might vary a bit, but the cake will still be moist and delicious.
Can I add fruit or nuts to the batter?
Yes, adding fresh or dried fruits like blueberries or chopped nuts like walnuts can add texture and flavor. Fold them in gently after mixing the flour to keep the batter balanced.
What is the best way to ensure the cake rises properly?
Make sure your baking powder is fresh and measure ingredients accurately, especially the flour. Also, avoid overmixing once the flour is added, as that can result in a dense cake.
How long does the cake stay fresh once baked?
If stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, the cake stays fresh and moist for up to 2 days. Refrigeration can extend its shelf life a bit but may dry it out, so always warm it slightly before serving if chilled.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Yogurt Cake Recipe is such a gem because it brings together simplicity and deliciousness in the most effortless way. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself, it’s a recipe that never fails to deliver comfort and smiles. Give it a try and enjoy the warm, homemade goodness that only this cake can bring!
Print
Easy Yogurt Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Western
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Yogurt Cake is a simple, moist, and fluffy dessert perfect for any occasion. Using yogurt as a key ingredient, it creates a light texture and subtle tang, balanced with vanilla and a touch of sweetness. With minimal ingredients and straightforward preparation, this recipe yields a delicious homemade cake that’s perfect for beginners and experienced bakers alike.
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 and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a 9-inch round springform cake pan to prevent the cake from sticking.
- Combine 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. Set this mixture aside. Rinse and dry the yogurt container thoroughly so it can be reused for measuring.
- Add eggs, sugar, and vanilla: Add 2 large eggs, 1 1/2 yogurt containers of white sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the yogurt and oil mixture. Beat everything well until fully combined and smooth.
- Incorporate dry ingredients: Add 1 3/4 yogurt containers of all-purpose flour, 2 ½ teaspoons of baking powder, and a pinch of salt to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined; the batter will be thick but evenly mixed.
- Pour and bake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly to level the top. Place the pan 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
- You can substitute plain Greek yogurt for regular yogurt for a denser texture.
- Ensure not to overmix the batter after adding flour to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- The yogurt container is used as a measuring cup, making this recipe very convenient and straightforward.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before removing the springform ring to maintain the cake’s shape.
- Serve plain or with fresh fruit and a dusting of powdered sugar for an added touch.
