Vanilla Yogurt Snack Cake

Name: Vanilla Yogurt Snack 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; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Easy Baking Favorites

I love making Vanilla Yogurt Snack Cake because it strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and freshness. The yogurt keeps the cake moist and adds a delightful tang that contrasts with the sweet vanilla flavor. It's a fantastic treat for any time of day, whether you need a quick breakfast or a sweet afternoon snack. Making it is straightforward, and I often love to experiment with different toppings, such as fresh berries or a drizzle of honey. This cake is not just easy to whip up, but it also brings a smile to everyone’s face!

Created by

Lucy Thompson

Last updated on 2026-02-10T17:17:36.241Z

When I first tried making this Vanilla Yogurt Snack Cake, I was amazed at how simple it was to create something so delicious. The key to its success lies in the use of yogurt, which not only adds moisture but also enhances the flavor profile. I found that combining the yogurt with quality vanilla extract made for an irresistibly fragrant cake.

As I experimented with various toppings, I discovered that fresh fruits like strawberries or blueberries brought out the cake's flavors wonderfully. Next time you're in the mood for a satisfying treat, remember that this cake can be your go-to option that fits any occasion!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Moist and tender texture thanks to yogurt
Subtle vanilla flavor that pleases the palate
Endless topping possibilities for every mood

The Role of Yogurt

Yogurt is the star ingredient in this Vanilla Yogurt Snack Cake, and its role extends beyond mere moisture. The acidity in yogurt helps break down gluten, resulting in a tender crumb that melts in your mouth. It’s important to use plain yogurt here, as flavored varieties can alter the cake’s intended taste and texture. Additionally, if you're looking for a dairy-free alternative, coconut yogurt can work wonders while still keeping the cake moist.

When mixed with sugar and butter, yogurt adds a unique tang that balances the sweetness of the cake. I recommend using yogurt at room temperature for the best texture. This allows the ingredients to blend seamlessly, creating a batter that's smooth and homogenous. If you find your yogurt too thick, a splash of milk can help achieve the desired consistency.

Techniques for Perfect Baking

Proper mixing is crucial when making this cake to avoid a dense texture. When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined; it’s okay if there are a few lumps in the batter. Overmixing can create gluten, resulting in a tougher cake. Use a rubber spatula to gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, which helps maintain a light and airy texture.

The baking process is also key. Keep an eye on the cake as it bakes. You will know it’s ready when the edges start to pull away slightly from the pan, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean but with a few moist crumbs. If the cake is browning too quickly, reduce the oven temperature by 25°F (about 14°C) to ensure it cooks evenly without burning.

Serving and Storage Suggestions

This snack cake is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. You can enjoy it plain, or take it up a notch by adding fresh berries, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of honey. I love serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a more decadent dessert. Consider pairing it with a cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon pick-me-up.

For storage, once cooled, keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend its freshness, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. You can also freeze the cake; simply wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw at room temperature when you're ready to indulge!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

1 cup plain yogurt
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt

Make sure to measure accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your cake:

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 the yogurt, sugar, and softened butter until smooth. Add in the eggs and vanilla extract, blending well.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the 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 overmix.

Bake

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

Cool and Serve

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

Enjoy your delicious cake!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider folding in some citrus zest or using flavored yogurt. This cake also freezes well, so you can prepare it ahead of time!

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize your Vanilla Yogurt Snack Cake with various mix-ins. For a fruity twist, fold in half a cup of blueberries or raspberries into the batter before baking. If you're a fan of nuts, consider adding chopped walnuts or almonds to give the cake a satisfying crunch. You might also experiment with flavored yogurts like lemon or coconut for a unique taste.

Another fun variation is to incorporate spices. A teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg can infuse the cake with a warm aroma and flavor, perfect for fall. Just be careful not to overpower the vanilla; a little goes a long way in this delicate cake.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your cake sinks in the middle, it’s possible that the oven temperature was too low or the batter was overmixed. Make sure to preheat your oven thoroughly, as an insufficiently heated oven can cause rising issues. To remedy overmixing, always gently fold in dry ingredients rather than stirring vigorously.

On the other hand, if your cake turns out dry, it might have baked too long. Check it a few minutes before the recommended baking time, as every oven varies slightly. For future batches, consider using a kitchen scale to measure your flour accurately; too much flour can lead to dryness.

Scaling the Recipe

If you’re looking to serve a larger group, doubling the recipe is straightforward. Just be mindful of your mixing bowl’s size; you want enough space to combine the ingredients without spilling. You can also bake the batter in larger pans, but keep an eye on the baking time, as it might vary with different dimensions.

For smaller gatherings, consider halving the recipe. You can use a 6-inch round cake pan for a delightful smaller cake that still retains that moist and tender texture. This is a great way to avoid leftovers while still enjoying this delicious treat!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use Greek yogurt?

Absolutely! Greek yogurt will give the cake a thicker texture and a slightly tangier flavor.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days.

→ Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ What are some recommended toppings?

Fresh fruits, whipped cream, or a simple dusting of powdered sugar work wonderfully!