Description
This Yogurt Cake is a moist, tender loaf cake made with plain yogurt, eggs, and a blend of all-purpose and almond flours. Its subtle citrus zest and vanilla aroma make it a perfect breakfast treat or afternoon snack. The use of yogurt ensures a moist crumb, while the mild olive or vegetable oil keeps it light. Easily adaptable with topping options and suitable for everyday baking, it’s a simple yet delicious cake that balances sweet and tangy notes beautifully.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (224g) plain yogurt (preferably whole milk)
- ½ cup (100g) mild olive oil, vegetable oil, or canola oil
- 3 large eggs (160g)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon or orange zest
Dry Ingredients
- 1½ cups (187g) all purpose flour (lightly spooned and leveled)
- ½ cup (50g) blanched almond flour (OR substitute with another ½ cup all purpose flour)
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
Topping Options
- See notes for suggested toppings such as sliced almonds, powdered sugar, or a simple glaze.
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and position a rack in the center, ensuring even heat for the cake.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, plain yogurt, oil choice, eggs, pure vanilla extract, and finely grated lemon or orange zest until smooth and well combined.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, stir together the all-purpose flour, blanched almond flour (if using), baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly distributed.
- Incorporate dry into wet: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, whisking gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain the cake’s tender texture.
- Prepare and fill the pan: Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan (metal preferred for better heat conduction). Pour the batter evenly into the pan, smoothing the top if desired.
- Bake the cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 55 minutes. After about 30 minutes, tent the cake loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning on top.
- Test for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter.
- Cool the cake: Remove the pan from the oven and set it on a wire rack. Let the cake cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes before removing to prevent breaking.
Notes
- The topping options include sprinkling sliced almonds on top before baking for crunch, dusting with powdered sugar after cooling, or drizzling a simple lemon or orange glaze for extra sweetness and citrus flavor.
- If almond flour is not available or preferred, substitute with an equal amount of additional all-purpose flour.
- For a dairy-free variation, use dairy-free yogurt and ensure the oil is plant-based.
- Do not overbake as it can dry out the cake; start checking at 40 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European