Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
I absolutely love making this Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake! The yogurt adds a wonderful moisture that keeps the cake incredibly soft and tender, while the almond extract gives it a delightful nutty flavor. I enjoy serving it at gatherings and seeing how eagerly everyone asks for seconds. Pairing it with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream makes it the perfect sweet treat for any occasion. It's easy to whip up, so I often find myself baking it when I want something simple and delicious.
When I first tried making this Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake, I was amazed at how the yogurt transformed the texture. It really enhances the cake's moisture, resulting in a rich yet light dessert. I typically use Greek yogurt for a thicker consistency, but regular yogurt works wonderfully too. The nutty almond flavor complements the vanilla perfectly, making every bite a delightful experience.
One of my favorite tips is to add a splash of milk if the batter feels too thick. This simple addition can help achieve the perfect pouring consistency without compromising the cake's overall moistness. I love to bake this cake for special occasions, as it never fails to impress guests.
Why You'll Love This Cake
- Delicate almond flavor enriched with vanilla
- Incredibly moist texture thanks to yogurt
- Perfect for any occasion, from breakfast to dessert
Understanding the Ingredients
The primary ingredient that sets this Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake apart is yogurt, which provides not only moisture but also a slight acidity that reacts beautifully with the baking soda. This reaction helps the cake to rise while keeping it exceptionally tender. When choosing yogurt, opt for full-fat plain yogurt to achieve the richest flavor and moistest texture, though low-fat options will still work in a pinch.
In addition to yogurt, the blending of vanilla and almond extracts creates a delightful flavor profile. The almond extract should complement, not overpower, so be careful not to add too much; a little goes a long way. If you don't have almond extract, swapping it for an equal amount of vanilla extract can still yield a deliciously fragrant cake.
Baking Tips for Success
When mixing your wet and dry ingredients, be cautious not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake rather than the light and fluffy texture you want. Mix just until you no longer see flour; it’s okay if there are a few lumps remaining. This step is crucial in getting that soft crumb that makes each slice melt in your mouth.
For even baking, make sure your oven is properly preheated to 350°F (175°C) before placing the cake inside. An oven thermometer is useful to verify the temperature, as some ovens can be off by quite a bit. Bake the cake for 30 to 35 minutes, and check doneness with a toothpick inserted in the center. It should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to get started on your Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake:
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
Once you have all your ingredients ready, you're all set to make this delicious cake!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to bake your Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake:
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 bowl, beat the sugar and eggs until light and fluffy. Then, add the yogurt, vegetable oil, vanilla, and almond extracts, mixing until well combined.
Combine Wet and Dry
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Serve it plain or topped with fresh fruit.
Enjoy your flavorful Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, consider folding in some chopped almonds or topping with a light glaze made from powdered sugar and almond milk.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
This Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake can be made a day in advance, making it a great choice for gatherings. After baking, allow it to cool completely at room temperature, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container. This will help retain its moisture and flavor until you're ready to serve it. It can stay fresh for up to three days at room temperature.
If you want to extend the life of the cake, you can freeze it. Once cooled and wrapped, the cake can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours. This cake freezes remarkably well, and you may even find that the flavors have deepened after freezing.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake, consider serving it with a variety of toppings. Fresh berries such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries not only add a pop of color but also a tartness that complements the sweet cake beautifully. A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream can also make for an indulgent treat, so don’t hesitate to spoil yourself or your guests!
Another creative option is to transform the cake into a dessert trifle. Layer slices of the cooled cake with yogurt, fresh fruits, and a drizzle of honey or a chocolate sauce in a glass dish. This not only makes for a visually appealing dessert but also adds different textures and flavors to each bite, making it a memorable treat for any occasion.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I substitute Greek yogurt for regular yogurt?
Yes, Greek yogurt works great and adds a creamier texture.
→ How should I store leftovers?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, you can freeze it. Wrap it well to prevent freezer burn, and it will last for up to 2 months.
→ What can I use instead of almond extract?
You can substitute with more vanilla extract if desired, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake
I absolutely love making this Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake! The yogurt adds a wonderful moisture that keeps the cake incredibly soft and tender, while the almond extract gives it a delightful nutty flavor. I enjoy serving it at gatherings and seeing how eagerly everyone asks for seconds. Pairing it with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream makes it the perfect sweet treat for any occasion. It's easy to whip up, so I often find myself baking it when I want something simple and delicious.
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, beat the sugar and eggs until light and fluffy. Then, add the yogurt, vegetable oil, vanilla, and almond extracts, mixing until well combined.
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Serve it plain or topped with fresh fruit.
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, consider folding in some chopped almonds or topping with a light glaze made from powdered sugar and almond milk.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 20g
- Protein: 6g