Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
I absolutely love making this Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake whenever I'm in the mood for a light and fluffy dessert. The combination of yogurt and almond extract creates a moist texture that pairs perfectly with the sweet vanilla flavor. What I particularly appreciate is how simple it is to prepare, yet it looks stunning when served. It’s the kind of cake that not only delights the palate but is also a conversation starter at gatherings. Every bite is a comforting reminder of home and love baked into each layer.
When I first tried this Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake, I was amazed at how incredibly light and fluffy it turned out. The yogurt not only adds moisture but also a subtle tang that elevates the flavor profile. I discovered that using almond extract instead of just vanilla really amps up the taste, providing a delightful twist that’s hard to resist.
For best results, I recommend letting the cake cool completely before frosting it with a simple vanilla glaze. This allows the flavors to meld and enhances the overall experience. Trust me, serving this cake at a gathering will leave your guests craving for more!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously light and fluffy texture
- Perfect balance of vanilla and almond flavors
- Simple ingredients that create a stunning dessert
Mastering Textures
The yogurt used in this Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake is crucial for achieving its signature fluffy texture. Its acidity reacts with the baking powder, helping the cake rise beautifully while also keeping it moist. I recommend using full-fat yogurt for the richest taste, but if you prefer a lighter option, low-fat yogurt will work too—just be aware that it may alter the cake's texture slightly, making it a tad denser.
When mixing the wet ingredients, ensure they are well combined to avoid any lumps. This step is essential, as it helps achieve a smoother batter that bakes uniformly. Use a whisk instead of a mixer to prevent overmixing; you want to stop mixing as soon as no dry flour remains visible. Overmixing leads to a tougher cake, so take care at this stage.
Perfecting the Glaze
Creating the glaze requires the right consistency for it to beautifully drizzle over the cake. Start with 2 tablespoons of milk and slowly add more, one teaspoon at a time, until you achieve a silky, pourable texture. If the glaze is too thick, it won’t spread well and may break apart when you slice the cake. Conversely, if it’s too runny, it will slide off completely instead of staying on top.
Enhancing the glaze's flavor is a wonderful option. Consider adding a touch of almond extract or even a sprinkle of finely grated lemon zest, which complements the vanilla and almond notes beautifully. This twist not only elevates the taste but also adds a delightful visual interest with flecks of color.
Serving Suggestions
This Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake is incredibly versatile in terms of serving. I love enjoying it plain, but for a more decadent touch, serve it with freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Adding seasonal fruits such as berries or poached pears on the side can brighten up the plate and introduce fresh flavors that pair beautifully with the cake.
For special occasions, you can dress up the cake by arranging edible flowers on top of the glaze or dusting it with powdered sugar right before serving. These simple additions not only enhance its aesthetic appeal but also impress your guests, making the cake feel extra special.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create a delicious and moist cake.
For the Cake
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp almond extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
For the Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
With these ingredients on hand, you are well on your way to baking a delightful Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious 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 mixing bowl, whisk together yogurt, sugar, oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract until smooth.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined.
Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool and Glaze
Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Meanwhile, prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cake.
Enjoy your Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake with family and friends!
Pro Tips
- For an extra touch, add slivered almonds on top of the glaze for a delightful crunch.
Make-Ahead Tips
This cake can easily be made ahead of time, making it perfect for busy days. Once baked and cooled, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to 2 days. To extend its freshness, you can refrigerate it for up to a week, but remember, it’s best enjoyed at room temperature for optimal flavor and texture.
If you want to prepare it even further in advance, consider freezing it. After cooling, slice the cake into portions, wrap individually in plastic wrap, and then in foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the slices in the refrigerator overnight and glaze before serving to retain that fresh-baked taste.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you're looking for a lower-sugar alternative, you can reduce the sugar in this recipe by about one-third without drastically affecting the cake's texture. Alternatively, you might consider using natural sweeteners like honey or agave syrup; however, be cautious with the liquid volume as this could require adjustments elsewhere in the recipe.
For those with nut allergies or who want a different flavor profile, you can substitute almond extract with an equal amount of coconut or vanilla extract. Each will lend a unique twist to the cake while maintaining its deliciousness. Additionally, for a gluten-free option, swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, but make sure to add a bit of xanthan gum for the best structure.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I substitute Greek yogurt for plain yogurt?
Yes, Greek yogurt can be used for added creaminess and flavor.
→ How can I make this cake gluten-free?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
→ Can I use other flavors instead of almond?
Absolutely! You can experiment with lemon or orange extracts for a citrus twist.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake
I absolutely love making this Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake whenever I'm in the mood for a light and fluffy dessert. The combination of yogurt and almond extract creates a moist texture that pairs perfectly with the sweet vanilla flavor. What I particularly appreciate is how simple it is to prepare, yet it looks stunning when served. It’s the kind of cake that not only delights the palate but is also a conversation starter at gatherings. Every bite is a comforting reminder of home and love baked into each layer.
Created by: Stella Cameron
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 8 slices
What You'll Need
For the Cake
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp almond extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
For the Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together yogurt, sugar, oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract until smooth.
In another bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Meanwhile, prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cake.
Extra Tips
- For an extra touch, add slivered almonds on top of the glaze for a delightful crunch.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 38g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 22g
- Protein: 4g