Greek Yogurt Vanilla Cake

Name: Greek Yogurt Vanilla Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1 cup granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 1/3 cup vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Sweet Treat Creations

I absolutely love making Greek Yogurt Vanilla Cake when I'm in the mood for something light yet indulgent. The creaminess of the yogurt adds a delightful tang, while the vanilla brings warmth and sweetness. This cake is not only easy to whip up, but it also stays moist and tender thanks to the yogurt. It's the perfect dessert to impress your guests or enjoy on a cozy afternoon with a cup of tea. Plus, it's an excellent way to incorporate some protein into your treats!

Created by

Olivia

Last updated on 2026-02-01T21:43:28.336Z

Making this Greek Yogurt Vanilla Cake has become one of my favorite baking traditions. The way the yogurt transforms the cake into a moist delight never ceases to amaze me. I opted for simple ingredients, letting the quality of flavors shine through without overshadowing each other. One tip I learned is to let the ingredients come to room temperature before mixing; it really enhances the texture of the batter.

When I first decided to experiment with Greek yogurt in my baking, I was pleasantly surprised by how well it replaces oil or butter. Not only does it keep the cake moist, but it also adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness perfectly. Pairing it with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream makes it even more special!

Why You'll Love This Cake
Deliciously moist and fluffy texture
Rich flavor from creamy Greek yogurt
Light and tangy vanilla essence

Understanding the Role of Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt not only lends a nice tang to this cake but also plays a crucial role in keeping it moist and tender. The higher protein content in Greek yogurt compared to regular yogurt helps strengthen the cake's structure and adds depth to the flavor profile. If you're looking for an alternative, a thick, creamy plant-based yogurt can provide a similar texture, although it might slightly alter the taste.

In this recipe, the acidity of Greek yogurt interacts with the baking soda to create a light and airy cake. This reaction is vital for achieving that fluffy texture. If you find yourself without baking soda, you could use baking powder as a substitute, but be mindful to adjust the quantities—roughly three times more baking powder will be needed to match the leavening power.

Perfecting the Baking Process

Baking is as much science as it is art, and timing plays a pivotal role in ensuring your cake turns out perfectly. Aim for a baking time of about 30 minutes, but start checking for doneness at 25 minutes to avoid overbaking. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.

Another tip is to allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps settle the structure and prevents the cake from breaking apart. If you are using a glass pan, you may need to lower the temperature by 25°F to avoid over-browning.

Glazing and Serving Suggestions

The optional glaze adds an extra layer of sweetness and a lovely glossy finish that can elevate the presentation. To achieve the perfect glaze consistency, start with the specified amounts of powdered sugar and milk, then gradually adjust until you get a thick yet pourable texture. If you prefer a more fruity flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or zest to the glaze.

When it comes to serving the cake, presentation is key! Try serving it with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for added freshness and contrast. Not only does this enhance the visual appeal, but it also balances the cake's richness. For a more decadent treat, consider pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Ingredients for Greek Yogurt Vanilla Cake

For the Cake

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup Greek yogurt
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1/3 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt

For the Glaze (optional)

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another large bowl, beat together the Greek yogurt, sugar, and eggs until smooth. Add the oil and vanilla, mixing well.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Prepare the Glaze (optional)

While the cake is cooling, mix the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cake if desired.

Serve and Enjoy

Slice the cake and enjoy your delicious Greek Yogurt Vanilla Cake with friends or family!

This cake can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days.

Pro Tips

For a flavor twist, try adding lemon zest or almond extract to the batter!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you’re planning to make this cake ahead of time, it stores beautifully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider wrapping the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and freezing it for up to three months. Just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving to maintain its moist texture.

For an even more convenient option, you can prepare the batter in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before baking, as this will help ensure even cooking and better texture.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with flavors by adding mix-ins such as lemon zest, almond extract, or even chocolate chips to the batter for a different twist. You can also incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spiced version, which pairs beautifully with the yogurt's richness.

For a festive touch, consider transforming it into a layered cake by baking two rounds and sandwiching your favorite frosting or additional layers of fruit in between. This not only looks impressive but also allows you to customize the flavors even further.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your cake domes too much or falls in the center, it could be due to overmixing the batter. Be gentle when combining wet and dry ingredients, mixing just until incorporated. Another common issue is a dry cake, which can often be resolved by ensuring accurate measuring of ingredients—especially flour. Too much flour can lead to dense results, so using the spoon-and-level method is best.

For a flat cake without any doming, make sure your oven temperature is accurate, as ovens can vary widely. An oven thermometer can help you verify the heat level and ensure that your cake bakes evenly without unexpected rise and fall.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute Greek yogurt with regular yogurt?

Yes, but it may alter the cake's texture slightly. Greek yogurt is thicker and adds more moisture.

→ How can I make this cake dairy-free?

Use a dairy-free yogurt alternative and plant-based milk for the glaze.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Absolutely! Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

→ What can I serve with this cake?

This cake pairs wonderfully with fresh berries, whipped cream, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream.