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A golden round lemon yogurt cake resting on a wire cooling rack with a bright white glaze dripping down the sides.

Lemon Yogurt Cake


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5 from 9 reviews

Description

This bright and refreshing Lemon Yogurt Cake combines the tang of citrus with the rich, moist crumb of a classic Southern sponge. Finished with a simple yogurt glaze, it is a versatile treat perfect for any occasion from morning coffee to elegant garden parties.


Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large lemon (zested and juiced)
  • 1/2 cup full-fat plain yogurt (plus 1 tablespoon for glaze)
  • 1/2 cup sunflower oil
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1/4 cup milk, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar


Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8-inch round cake pan, lining the bottom with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, rub the lemon zest into the granulated sugar with your fingertips for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Whisk the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt into the lemon sugar mixture until well combined.
  4. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the sunflower oil, egg, yogurt, milk, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  5. Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients using a spatula, stopping as soon as the flour streaks disappear.
  6. Spread the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.
  7. Let the cake cool in the pan for 20 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
  8. Whisk together the powdered sugar, a tablespoon of yogurt, and a splash of lemon juice to create a glaze, then pour over the cooled cake.

Notes

To ensure the most tender crumb possible, always use full-fat yogurt rather than low-fat or non-fat varieties. If your glaze seems too thin, add more powdered sugar a teaspoon at a time; if too thick, a tiny drop of lemon juice will loosen it up perfectly. For the best flavor, always zest your lemon directly over the sugar to catch every drop of the essential oils.

  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 30 mins
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Southern American