Greek Yogurt Vanilla Cake

Name: Greek Yogurt Vanilla Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Sweet Recipe Collection

I love making this Greek Yogurt Vanilla Cake because it’s incredibly moist and has a lovely, rich flavor. The use of Greek yogurt makes it lighter, while still being indulgent and perfect for any occasion. Whether it's a birthday, family gathering, or just a sweet treat for myself, this cake never disappoints. Plus, it's easy to whip together—all you need are some simple ingredients, and I promise you’ll have a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress!

Created by

Luca

Last updated on 2026-02-01T16:26:28.768Z

When I embarked on creating the Greek Yogurt Vanilla Cake, I was looking for a dessert that felt light yet rich at the same time. I discovered that incorporating Greek yogurt not only adds moisture but also provides a wonderful tang that complements the vanilla flavor beautifully. Trust me, this twist on a classic cake made it an instant hit!

I also found that using room temperature ingredients allows for better mixing and a fluffier texture. This simple trick has made all the difference in achieving that perfect crumb, and I can’t recommend it enough for cake bakers.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Moist and tender crumb thanks to Greek yogurt
Rich vanilla flavor that everyone adores
Perfectly simple yet impressive for guests

Mastering the Texture

The key to achieving a beautifully moist and tender cake lies in the balance of your wet and dry ingredients. Using Greek yogurt not only adds moisture but also helps to create a fluffy texture that’s hard to replicate. When mixing, be careful not to over-mix your batter; you want to stop once the flour is just incorporated. This will prevent the development of gluten that can lead to a dense cake.

For an even lighter cake, consider sifting your flour before measuring. This aerates the flour and can contribute to a more delicate crumb. Also, if your yogurt is too thick, you can thin it slightly with a splash of milk. This adjustment can help in achieving a better batter consistency while still reaping the benefits of Greek yogurt.

Perfect Baking Techniques

When it comes to baking, the temperature of your oven can make all the difference. Make sure your oven is fully preheated to 350°F (175°C) before putting in the cake. To ensure even baking, position your cake pan on the center rack. This allows hot air to circulate around the cake, promoting even rise and preventing a dome-shaped top.

Check your cake for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center after the 30-minute mark. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. If you notice it is browning too quickly, you can loosely cover it with aluminum foil until it finishes baking. This will prevent the edges from overcooking while allowing the center to catch up.

Serving and Storage Tips

Once your Greek Yogurt Vanilla Cake has cooled completely, it can be served plain or dressed up. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk can elevate its appearance without overwhelming its flavors. For a more decadent touch, consider adding fresh fruit or whipped cream on top.

If you have leftovers, store the cake covered at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and keep them in the freezer for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or for a quick fix, microwave slices for about 10-15 seconds to revive that fresh-baked taste.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delightful baking experience.

Ingredients

1 cup Greek yogurt
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt

Make sure to double-check your ingredients for freshness before starting!

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to achieve the best results.

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, sugar, and vegetable oil until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix!

Bake the Cake

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

Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

Enjoy your delicious creation with a dollop of whipped cream or fresh fruit!

Pro Tips

For the best flavor, use high-quality vanilla extract. You can also add a touch of lemon zest for a delightful twist if desired.

Substitutions and Variations

While Greek yogurt is a fabulous base for this cake, you can also experiment with different flavors by substituting vanilla extract with almond extract or even lemon zest for a citrus twist. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, robust non-dairy yogurts made from almond or coconut can work, just ensure they have a similar consistency to Greek yogurt.

For those looking to reduce sugar or calorie content, consider using a sugar substitute designed for baking. However, keep in mind that this may slightly alter the cake's flavor and texture. Using a combination of whole wheat flour and all-purpose flour can also provide additional fiber without compromising too much on texture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your cake doesn’t rise as expected, it could be due to old leavening agents. Always check the expiration dates on your baking powder and baking soda before starting. Fresh leavening agents are crucial for getting that perfect rise in your cake.

Should you find your cake is too dense, consider if you may have over-mixed the batter or exceeded the flour measurement. Reducing the mixing time or carefully measuring can help ensure your batter has the ideal consistency for a light texture.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling this recipe for larger gatherings is simple. For a double batch, use two 9-inch round cake pans and increase your baking time slightly, roughly by 5-10 minutes—keep an eye out for that toothpick test. Adjusting your ingredients proportionally is key to maintaining flavor and moisture.

If you're looking to make smaller servings, consider baking the batter in a muffin tin at the same temperature for about 18-20 minutes. This will yield delightful Greek yogurt vanilla cupcakes that are perfect for mini servings or gatherings!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use non-fat Greek yogurt?

Yes, non-fat Greek yogurt can be used, but it may result in a slightly less moist cake.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ What can I add for extra flavor?

You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit to the batter for added flavor and texture.