Moist and Fluffy Lemon Yogurt Cake

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If you could bottle up sunshine and bake it into a cake, this Moist and Fluffy Lemon Yogurt Cake would be it. Bursting with zesty lemon flavor, this loaf is soft, tender, and has a beautiful golden crust with a tangy-sweet glaze that seeps into every bite. The secret? Yogurt. It keeps the crumb perfectly moist and light, making this cake a winner for any occasion, from casual brunches to elegant afternoon teas.

This lemon yogurt cake isn’t just a treat for the taste buds—it’s also incredibly easy to whip up. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, you’ll find the process simple and satisfying. A single bowl, a whisk, and a few pantry staples are all you need to bring this delicious loaf to life.

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Why You’ll Love This Moist and Fluffy Lemon Yogurt Cake

• Incredibly Moist: Thanks to the yogurt, every slice is tender and never dry.
• Bright and Zesty: The lemon flavor shines through with just the right balance of sweet and tart.
• One-Bowl Wonder: Minimal cleanup and fuss-free preparation.
• Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack.
• Great for Make-Ahead: The flavor intensifies the next day, making it even more irresistible.

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What Kind of Yogurt Should I Use for Lemon Yogurt Cake?

Greek yogurt is the best choice for this cake. Its creamy texture and slightly tangy flavor complement the lemon beautifully and add a richness to the batter. However, if you don’t have Greek yogurt on hand, regular plain yogurt or even a dairy-free version will also work. Just be sure it’s unsweetened to keep the sugar balance in check.

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Ingredients for the Moist and Fluffy Lemon Yogurt Cake

Each ingredient plays a key role in creating the moist texture and bright lemony flavor of this cake.

• All-Purpose Flour: Forms the base of the cake with a soft yet structured crumb.
• Baking Powder: Helps the cake rise and become light and fluffy.
• Salt: Enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness.
• Plain Greek Yogurt: Adds creaminess and keeps the cake incredibly moist.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the batter and adds a slight crisp to the edges.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and provide richness.
• Lemon Zest: Intensifies the lemon flavor naturally.
• Fresh Lemon Juice: Adds tang and brightness to the cake.
• Vegetable Oil: Keeps the crumb soft and moist without overpowering flavors.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and depth to the overall flavor.

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How To Make the Moist and Fluffy Lemon Yogurt Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, sugar, eggs, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth and well-blended.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

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

Step 4: Add the Oil

Slowly stream in the vegetable oil while gently folding the batter. This will create a silky, rich texture without overmixing.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Glaze

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. While still slightly warm, drizzle with a lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice.

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How to Serve and Store This Moist and Fluffy Lemon Yogurt Cake

This delightful lemon loaf serves approximately 8 people, making it a great choice for brunches, picnics, or coffee with friends. Serve slices slightly warm with a cup of tea, or chill it in the fridge for a denser, refreshing treat on warm days.

To store, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It keeps well at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze individual slices and thaw as needed.

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What to Serve With Moist and Fluffy Lemon Yogurt Cake?

Fresh Berries

Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries pair wonderfully with the tangy lemon flavor.

Whipped Cream

A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream takes this cake to dessert-level indulgence.

Greek Yogurt and Honey

Add a creamy, tangy contrast that echoes the cake’s base ingredient.

Lemon Curd

Double down on the citrus with a spoonful of silky lemon curd on the side.

Iced Tea or Lemonade

Complement the cake with a refreshing drink to enhance its summery feel.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Especially when serving the cake warm, vanilla ice cream adds a decadent touch.

Toasted Coconut

Sprinkle some on top for a tropical twist and extra texture.

Mint Garnish

Fresh mint not only adds color but a refreshing herbal note that complements the lemon.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
Yes, you can substitute regular plain yogurt if Greek yogurt isn’t available. Just make sure it’s unsweetened and plain for best results.

2. Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely. Swap out the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture may vary slightly but will still be moist and flavorful.

3. How do I make the lemon glaze?
Mix 1/2 cup of powdered sugar with about 1-2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice until smooth. Adjust the thickness by adding more sugar or juice as needed.

4. Can I freeze this cake?
Yes! Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

5. Why is my cake dense and not fluffy?
Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined to keep the texture light and airy.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add liqueur or leave it out? Did you try chocolate on top?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other bake smarter.

Find more daily recipes and baking inspiration on my Pinterest: Life With Livia

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Conclusion

The Moist and Fluffy Lemon Yogurt Cake is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly special. With its vibrant citrus flavor, rich moisture, and effortless preparation, it’s bound to become one of your go-to treats. Whether you’re looking for an easy dessert, a sweet breakfast option, or just a slice of sunshine with your tea, this lemon loaf delivers every time.

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