Easy Yogurt Cake

Looking for a simple yet delicious cake recipe? This Easy Yogurt Cake is a must-try! Made with plain yogurt, flour, and a hint of lemon zest, this cake is moist and fluffy, with a perfect balance of tang and sweetness. It’s an ideal dessert recipe for any occasion, whether you’re enjoying a quiet afternoon tea or hosting a gathering. The addition of a jam glaze gives it a beautiful glossy finish and extra flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (250g) plain yogurt
• 2 leveled cups (250g) all-purpose flour (or light spelt flour, or a mix of both)
• 1/2 cup (100g) white or unrefined cane sugar
• 1/2 scant cup (approx 80g) vegetable oil (canola oil works great)
• 2 eggs, at room temperature
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp vanilla essence
• Zest of 1-2 lemons*
• A pinch of salt

For the Jam Glaze

• 3 tbsp apricot or orange jam

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and position the rack in the center.
2. Grease a 9x5x2.5 inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray, or line it with parchment paper (no greasing needed if using parchment).
3. In a large bowl, mix the eggs and sugar until well combined. Then add the vegetable oil, lemon zest, and vanilla essence, mixing again. Add the yogurt and stir until smooth.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack.
8. For an optional finishing touch, brush the top of the cake with warm apricot or orange jam to add a glossy glaze and extra flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This easy yogurt cake is light, moist, and packed with fresh lemon flavor, making it the perfect treat for any occasion. It’s simple to make with pantry staples like flour, sugar, and yogurt, plus the added zing of lemon zest. The jam glaze adds a glossy finish and extra sweetness, taking this cake to the next level. Whether you’re craving a quick snack or need a dessert to impress guests, this cake is sure to please.

Tips

• Room temperature ingredients: Ensure your eggs and yogurt are at room temperature to help create a smoother batter.
• Mix gently: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, avoid over-mixing to keep the cake tender and fluffy.
• Check for doneness: Test with a skewer or toothpick in the center of the cake to check if it’s fully cooked. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready.

Variations and Substitutions

• Flour: You can experiment with other flours like whole wheat or almond flour, but it may alter the texture slightly.
• Yogurt: If you don’t have plain yogurt, you can use Greek yogurt for a thicker texture, or swap with sour cream for a tangier flavor.
• Flavor: For extra flavor, add a bit of orange zest, cinnamon, or nutmeg to the batter.
• Jam Glaze: Try different types of jam like raspberry or strawberry for a personalized touch.

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! This yogurt cake stores well for several days at room temperature, or you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly.

Can I use a different pan?
Yes, you can use an 8×8-inch square pan, or a round cake pan, but the baking time may need adjustment. Keep an eye on it while baking.

How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate it for up to a week.

Serving

This yogurt cake can be enjoyed as a simple snack or dessert. Pair it with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful treat. For a special breakfast, serve with fresh fruit and a dollop of whipped cream.

Suggestions

• For added texture, fold in a handful of chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the batter.
• Serve the cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for a more indulgent dessert.

This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for an easy yogurt cake that’s both delicious and versatile.