Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake

Name: Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup plain yogurt; 1 cup sugar; 1/2 cup butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon almond extract; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love baking, and this Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake is one of my absolute favorites. It's light yet moist, with a delightful almond flavor that perfectly complements the creamy texture from the yogurt. I appreciate that it's not overly sweet, making it a lovely treat for any time of the day. Plus, it's so easy to whip up, that I find myself making it whenever I have a spare moment. The aroma that fills my kitchen while it bakes is simply irresistible!

Created by

Aubrey Whitman

Last updated on 2026-01-16T00:10:32.425Z

As I embarked on making this Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake, I was excited to use yogurt as a key ingredient, which I believe adds a wonderful moisture and a slight tang to the cake. I experimented with almond extract to amplify the rich flavor, and the result was simply divine. I also discovered that letting the cake cool completely before slicing yields a much better texture, so patience really does pay off!

With each bite, the blend of vanilla and almond flavors reminded me of my childhood baking memories with my grandmother. She always emphasized the importance of quality ingredients. I used fresh almond flour and pure vanilla extract, which made a noticeable difference. Trust me, this cake will become a staple in your home just as it has in mine!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Light and moist texture that melts in your mouth
Subtle almond and vanilla flavor that’s simply irresistible
Perfect for afternoon tea or as a light dessert

      

The Role of Yogurt in Baking

Yogurt serves as a natural tenderizer in this Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake, keeping the texture moist while providing a subtle tang that balances the sweetness. This acidity also helps to activate the baking soda, ensuring a light and airy crumb. If you're out of plain yogurt, Greek yogurt can be an excellent substitute, but consider thinning it with a bit of milk for a similar consistency.

Moreover, yogurt contributes to the cake's rich flavor profile without the need for excessive sugar. The moisture from yogurt means you can enjoy a delicious slice without the heaviness that can come from butter alone. Just remember to measure your yogurt accurately to keep the wet-to-dry ratio in check.

Enhancing Almond Flavor

In this recipe, both almond extract and vanilla extract play pivotal roles in creating that delightful flavor blend. The almond extract is particularly potent, so using it in moderation enhances the taste without overpowering the cake. If you want to amplify the nutty flavor even more, consider incorporating finely chopped almonds or almond meal into the batter—it will add an appealing crunch and depth.

For those who prefer a different twist, you can substitute the almond extract with hazelnut or coconut extract. Keep in mind that such substitutions will alter the overall flavor profile significantly, so choose according to your personal preference.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake is best enjoyed the day it’s baked, but it can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To extend its freshness, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. If you choose to freeze it, slice it first, then wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil—thawed slices are just as tasty on the second day as they were fresh.

For serving, I love to dust the top with powdered sugar or drizzle a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and a splash of milk to elevate its appearance. Fresh fruits like berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream pair wonderfully with the cake, creating a lovely finish for any gathering.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you get started:

Ingredients

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

Once you have all these ingredients, you’re ready to bake!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious Vanilla Almond Yogurt 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 the eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract, and mix until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together 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 over-mix.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

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

Enjoy your Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream.

Pro Tips

For an extra almond flavor, feel free to sprinkle slivered almonds on top before baking. This adds both texture and a beautiful presentation.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue when baking this cake is ensuring it rises properly. If you find your cake is dense or not rising as expected, check the freshness of your baking powder and baking soda—they should be active for the best results. Also, avoid over-mixing the batter, as this can lead to a tough cake texture instead of a light and fluffy one.

If your cake domes too much in the center, it might be baking at too high a temperature. Consider using an oven thermometer to check the actual temperature, as many home ovens can be off by several degrees, which impacts baking times and outcomes.

Scaling the Recipe

If you want to make a larger batch for a gathering, you can easily double this Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake recipe. Just ensure you use a larger pan; a 9x13-inch baking dish will work well for the doubled amounts. Keep an eye on the baking time, as it may take an additional 10 to 15 minutes to bake thoroughly—check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center.

Conversely, if you're looking to make a smaller batch, you can halve the recipe and use a smaller cake pan, such as a 6-inch round. This is a great option if you want to enjoy a slice without the commitment of a whole cake lingering around.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use Greek yogurt instead of regular yogurt?

Yes, Greek yogurt will work well and may provide a slightly richer flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cake stays moist for several days, making it a great option for prepping in advance.

→ Is there a dairy-free option?

You can substitute the yogurt with a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut yogurt, and use plant-based butter.