Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake

Name: Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup plain yogurt; 1 cup granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons almond extract; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons milk; 1/2 teaspoon almond extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore baking, and this Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake has become one of my go-to recipes. The cake's moist and tender crumb is perfectly complemented by the subtle almond flavor and a hint of vanilla. It's the ideal dessert for any occasion, whether it's a cozy family gathering or a festive celebration. When I first tried incorporating yogurt into the batter, I was amazed at how it elevated the texture and taste. This cake has quickly turned into a favorite among friends and family alike!

Created by

Phoebe Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-15T22:10:15.658Z

As I was experimenting with various cake recipes, I decided to add yogurt for moisture and a touch of tanginess. The result was incredible! The cake stayed fresh longer and had a delightful flavor. My friends couldn’t believe it was made with yogurt!

What I love about this recipe is its versatility; you can easily switch the almond extract for lemon or orange zest if you're in the mood for a different flavor profile. It truly allows for creativity in the kitchen while delivering a stunning outcome every time.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Moist and fluffy texture thanks to the yogurt
Delicate almond flavor with a hint of vanilla
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy days
Great for celebrations or as a delightful afternoon treat

      

The Role of Yogurt in Texture

In this Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake, yogurt is not just a flavorful addition; it plays a crucial role in achieving the cake's moistness and tenderness. The acidity in yogurt helps to break down the proteins in the flour, resulting in a softer crumb. If you prefer, you can substitute Greek yogurt for regular yogurt, which will yield a slightly thicker texture. Just remember to adjust the sugar slightly as Greek yogurt can have a tangier flavor.

It's also worth mentioning that the yogurt helps to keep the cake fresh for longer. If you're baking this cake a day in advance for an event, the moisture retained by the yogurt will ensure that it stays delightful and tender. I often find that the flavors meld beautifully overnight, making it even more delectable.

Substitutions for Dietary Preferences

This cake offers several easy substitutions to cater to dietary restrictions or personal preferences. For a dairy-free version, you can replace the yogurt with a non-dairy yogurt, such as almond or coconut yogurt. Just ensure that these alternatives are unsweetened to avoid altering the cake’s flavor balance.

If you're looking to reduce sugar, consider using a sugar substitute like coconut sugar or a granular sugar replacement. Keep in mind that this may slightly affect the cake's texture and browning. However, the cake should still turn out beautifully; just monitor the bake time closely, as sugar substitutes can behave differently.

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 cup plain yogurt
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons almond extract
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Glaze (optional)

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
1/2 teaspoon almond extract

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, almond extract, and vanilla extract. Whisk until well blended.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Prepare the Glaze (Optional)

While the cake is baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk, and almond extract until smooth. Adjust the thickness with more milk or powdered sugar as needed.

Cool and Glaze

Once the cake is done, allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. If using the glaze, pour it over the cooled cake before slicing.

Pro Tips

For an added touch, you can sprinkle sliced almonds on top of the glaze for extra crunch and decoration.

Storing and Freezing

To maintain the freshness of your Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you prefer, you can refrigerate it, which will extend its life for about a week. Just be aware that refrigerating the cake might slightly alter its soft texture.

For longer storage, consider freezing the cake. Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight, and you can even warm it slightly in the microwave to refresh its texture.

Serving Suggestions

While this cake is delicious as-is, you might want to elevate it with some serving suggestions. A dollop of lightly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with the flavors of almond and vanilla. For an extra touch, sprinkle some sliced almonds on top of the glaze for added crunch and presentation.

If you want to add a seasonal twist, consider serving the cake with fresh seasonal fruits like berries or poached pears. These can enhance both the visual appeal and flavor, creating a delightful contrast with the cake's richness. I've often found that a simple fruit compote can take your serving experience to the next level.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use Greek yogurt instead of plain yogurt?

Yes, Greek yogurt works well and will give the cake an even denser and richer texture.

→ How should I store the cake?

The cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.

→ Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and the cake should turn out just as delicious.

→ Is it possible to skip the glaze?

Absolutely! The cake is delightful on its own without the glaze if you prefer a lighter option.