Name: Moist and Fluffy Lemon Yogurt Cake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons baking powder; ¼ teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 1 cup granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 1 cup plain Greek yogurt; ½ cup vegetable oil; ¼ cup fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

This Moist and Fluffy Lemon Yogurt Cake is the kind of dessert that makes you close your eyes and savor every bite. It strikes a beautiful balance between tangy lemon zest and the soft, creamy richness of yogurt. Each slice is tender, light, and just sweet enough to brighten your day. Whether you’re making it for brunch, dessert, or an afternoon tea treat, this cake is guaranteed to impress.

The secret to its unbeatable texture is the Greek yogurt, which keeps it moist for days while adding a subtle tang that pairs perfectly with lemon. It doesn’t require any fancy mixers or complicated steps, making it the perfect recipe for bakers of all levels.

What Kind of Yogurt Should I Use?

For the best flavor and texture, go with full-fat plain Greek yogurt. Its thick consistency and tanginess create a cake that’s rich yet airy. If you only have regular yogurt, make sure to strain it for a few hours to remove excess liquid.

Ingredients for the Moist and Fluffy Lemon Yogurt Cake

All-purpose flour: Provides the base structure of the cake.
Baking powder: Helps the cake rise and become fluffy.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances the lemon flavor.
Lemon zest: Adds bold, aromatic citrus flavor.
Granulated sugar: Balances the tartness and adds sweetness.
Eggs: Bind everything together and give the cake richness.
Plain Greek yogurt: Keeps the cake moist and tender.
Vegetable oil: Gives the cake a soft crumb and helps it stay fresh.
Lemon juice: Intensifies the lemony punch.
Vanilla extract: Adds a subtle depth of flavor.

How To Make the Moist and Fluffy Lemon Yogurt Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a standard 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the lemon zest.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate large bowl, whisk the sugar and eggs until pale and slightly fluffy. Mix in the yogurt, oil, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 4: Combine and Fold

Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently until just combined. Don’t overmix—you want to keep that texture light and fluffy.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Dust

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Once completely cooled, dust lightly with powdered sugar.

How to Store and Serve This Delightful Cake

This lemon yogurt cake tastes amazing both warm and room temp. Serve it plain or with a side of whipped cream or fresh berries for a light dessert. To store, wrap tightly in plastic or keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. You can also freeze individual slices for up to 2 months—just thaw and enjoy.

What to Serve With Lemon Yogurt Cake?

Fresh Berries

Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries bring a refreshing contrast to the cake’s richness.

Whipped Cream

A dollop on top takes this cake from great to irresistible.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Let it melt into the warm slice for the ultimate comfort treat.

Lemon Curd

Double down on citrus with a spread of homemade or store-bought lemon curd.

Sweetened Ricotta

For a creamy and slightly tangy twist, try it with a bit of sweetened ricotta.

Hot Tea or Iced Coffee

The perfect pairing to balance the cake’s sweetness.

Honey Drizzle

A light drizzle of honey elevates each bite with natural sweetness.

Want More Cake Ideas with a Citrus Twist?

If you’re loving the sunny flavor in this lemon yogurt cake, you might also enjoy these zesty delights:

Lemon Pound Cake for a dense yet buttery treat.
Lemon Raspberry Swirl Cheesecake Cups that blend creamy and tart in every bite.
Blueberry Lemon Dutch Baby for a fluffy breakfast twist.
Raspberry Lemon Heaven Cupcakes when you’re craving a citrus-kissed handheld treat.

Save This Pin For Later

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe a lemon glaze or a poppy seed sprinkle? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen Recipes on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

Moist and Fluffy Lemon Yogurt Cake

Author: Julia Walton
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 1 loaf (8 slices)
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This moist and fluffy lemon yogurt cake is the ultimate combination of light, tender crumb and zesty citrus flavor. Greek yogurt gives it unbeatable richness and softness while lemon zest and juice bring bright, refreshing notes that make every bite sing. It’s a crowd-pleasing favorite perfect for breakfast ideas, easy dessert recipes, and afternoon tea food ideas. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick breakfast or looking for healthy snack options with bold flavor, this easy recipe is guaranteed to deliver sunny joy.