Classic Vanilla Yogurt Loaf Cake

Name: Classic Vanilla Yogurt Loaf Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup plain yogurt; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons milk; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Sweet Food

I’ve always cherished the comforting aroma of a freshly baked loaf cake wafting through my home. This Classic Vanilla Yogurt Loaf Cake has become my go-to recipe, thanks to its moist texture and delightful flavor. The yogurt not only enhances the cake’s moisture but also adds a lovely tang that pairs beautifully with the sweetness. This cake is perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a light dessert. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be making it again and again.

Created by

Octavia Bellamy

Last updated on 2026-02-02T01:37:36.074Z

When I first set out to create this Classic Vanilla Yogurt Loaf Cake, I wanted to find a way to utilize that extra yogurt sitting in my fridge. The result was a light, fluffy cake that surprised me with its texture and flavor balance. I realized that the combination of yogurt and vanilla creates a unique depth that elevates the traditional loaf cake into something special.

This recipe is incredibly straightforward and requires minimal effort. I’ve found that incorporating the yogurt into the batter helps achieve that moist crumb we all love, and I recommend letting it cool completely before slicing to maintain structure. Every bite is soft and fragrant, making it an ideal treat for any occasion.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Moist and tender crumb thanks to yogurt
Subtle balance of sweetness and tang
Perfect for any occasion or as a snack

Understanding the Role of Yogurt

Yogurt is a key ingredient in this loaf cake, contributing not only moisture but also a depth of flavor that sets it apart. The acidity of the yogurt reacts with the baking powder, which helps the cake rise and create a tender crumb. This combination of moisture and acidity results in a cake that stays fresh for days without drying out. If you're short on yogurt, a cup of sour cream can be used as a substitute, yielding similar results in texture and taste.

When selecting yogurt for this recipe, opt for plain, unsweetened yogurt to avoid unintentional sweetness that could throw off the cake's balance. Greek yogurt can be used as well; just thin it with a bit of milk if it seems too thick. The yogurt you choose can also impart different subtle flavors, so feel free to experiment with various brands to find your favorite!

Perfecting the Baking Process

Getting the baking time right is crucial for achieving the perfect loaf cake. Start checking your cake around the 40-minute mark; a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with only a few crumbs attached. If you notice the edges browning too quickly, you can tent the cake with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning while allowing it to bake through. Remember, every oven is different, so keep an eye on it to avoid under or overbaking.

Cooling the cake properly is just as important as baking it. Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes; this will help it firm up and make it easier to remove without breaking. Transferring it to a wire rack is essential to cool it completely, as placing it on a flat surface can trap steam and lead to a soggy bottom.

Glazing and Variations

The optional glaze elevates this Classic Vanilla Yogurt Loaf Cake, adding a sweet finish that complements its rich vanilla flavor. When mixing your glaze, ensure that the powdered sugar is sifted to avoid lumps, and adjust the milk quantity to achieve your desired consistency—thicker for a drizzle, thinner for a pour-over effect. If you're looking for a bit of zest, consider adding lemon juice or zest for a citrusy glaze that pairs delightfully with the vanilla.

Feel free to get creative with mix-ins or variations. Chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit can be added to the batter for extra flavor and texture. Additionally, you could swap some of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added nutrition. Just remember, adjusting ingredients might slightly alter the baking time, so keep a close watch on your loaf as it bakes!

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 cup plain yogurt
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Glaze (optional)

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Gather these simple ingredients and get ready to whip up a delightful cake!

Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla. Whisk until well blended.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Glaze (optional)

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. If desired, mix the glaze ingredients and drizzle over the cooled cake.

Slice and enjoy this delicious cake with your favorite beverage!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, you can add lemon zest or almond extract to the batter. This cake pairs wonderfully with fresh berries and whipped cream.

Storage Tips

To keep your Classic Vanilla Yogurt Loaf Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you are making it ahead of time, this cake freezes beautifully. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months, making it an excellent option for meal prep or future snacks.

When you're ready to enjoy a slice from the freezer, simply remove it and thaw at room temperature for a few hours. You can also warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds for a cozy treat. Just be careful not to overheat, as this can dry the cake out.

Serving Suggestions

This loaf cake can stand on its own, but serving it with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream can make for a delightful presentation. Fresh berries or a fruit compote provide a lovely contrast to the sweet vanilla. I particularly enjoy it with a drizzle of honey and sliced strawberries for breakfast or brunch!

For an added layer of flavor, consider toasting slices of the loaf cake lightly before serving. This enhances the cake's subtle crust and brings out the flavors even more. A side of Greek yogurt can add protein and creaminess, turning a simple cake into a more filling meal or snack option.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use Greek yogurt for this recipe?

Yes, Greek yogurt can be used in place of plain yogurt. It will make the cake even richer.

→ How do I store the leftover cake?

Store the cooled cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze this loaf cake?

Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. It can last for up to 3 months.

→ What can I add to customize the flavor?

Try adding chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits to the batter for a fun twist!