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
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8-inch round cake pan, lining the bottom with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, rub the lemon zest into the granulated sugar with your fingertips for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Whisk the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt into the lemon sugar mixture until well combined.
- In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the sunflower oil, egg, yogurt, milk, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients using a spatula, stopping as soon as the flour streaks disappear.
- 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.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 20 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- 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