Did you know yogurt can cut fat by up to 20% in baking? That’s the magic of Lemon Yogurt Cake. It mixes lemon tartness with yogurt’s creamy richness. As summer comes, this cake is a hit for family gatherings.
It’s more than a sweet treat. It’s about making memories, one slice at a time.
Introduction to Lemon Yogurt Cake
Lemon yogurt cake is a creamy dessert that’s full of flavor. It mixes the zesty lemon taste with the smoothness of yogurt. This makes it a refreshing twist on usual cakes.
The Greek yogurt in it makes the cake moist and flavorful. Every bite is like a burst of sunshine.
Making this cake is easy and quick. It only takes about 10 minutes to get ready. Then, it bakes for about 45 minutes. You can make it even when you’re very busy.
This cake makes about 10 servings. It’s great for sharing at parties or enjoying at home. It’s a special treat for everyone.
History of the French Grandmother’s Lemon Yogurt Cake
The French Grandmother’s Lemon Yogurt Cake is loved by many. It’s called Gâteaux de Mamie. It brings back memories of family times and special traditions.
This cake is easy to make. You use yogurt jars to measure ingredients. It’s fun and makes baking easy.
This cake means more than just dessert. It’s about sharing and being together. Baking it reminds me of happy times with family. It connects me to my French roots and celebrates life’s simple pleasures.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Lemon Cake Recipe
This lemon cake recipe is easy and tasty. It takes just 20 minutes to make. When it comes out of the oven, it smells amazing.
The cake is moist because of the yogurt. It’s great for any citrus dessert. It serves 8 people, perfect for parties.
Cooking time is 45 to 55 minutes. You can enjoy a cup of tea while waiting. The cake is sweet but not too sweet.
This lemon yogurt cake is low in calories. It has 342 kcal per serving. It’s full of lemon zest and juice, making it perfect for summer.
Do you have leftovers? Store them in an airtight container for up to three days. Or freeze them for up to three months. This cake is moist and delicious.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 20 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 45-55 minutes |
| Total Time | 1 hour 5 minutes |
| Servings | 8 |
| Calories per Serving | 342 kcal |
| Moisture Retention | Glaze helps maintain moisture |
Ingredients Needed for Lemon Yogurt Cake
To make a tasty lemon yogurt cake, you need special ingredients. These help make the cake moist and full of flavor. Here’s what you need, along with some options to make it your own.
Key Ingredients for Moisture and Flavor
- All-purpose flour: 1.5 cups provides the cake base.
- Plain or Greek yogurt: 0.5 cups adds richness and moisture.
- Canola oil: 0.5 cups keeps the texture light and tender.
- Sugar: 1 cup balances the tartness of the lemons.
- Large eggs: 2 ensures a fluffy structure.
- Baking powder: 2 tsp helps the cake rise perfectly.
- Salt: 0.5 tsp enhances the flavors.
- Lemon zest: from 1 medium lemon intensifies the lemon flavor.
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice: 0.25 cups adds a refreshing tang.
Alternative Ingredients to Consider
- Gluten-free flour: Substitute all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.
- Honey or maple syrup: Replace sugar for a natural sweetness.
- Vegetable oil: Can be used instead of canola oil for a similar effect.
- Egg substitutes: Use flaxseed meal or applesauce for a vegan option.
- Flavor infusions: Consider adding fresh herbs like rosemary for a unique twist.
Choosing these ingredients carefully lets you make the cake your own. You can follow this recipe or try new things. Have fun making your Greek yogurt dessert!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Lemon Yogurt Cake
Making a lemon yogurt cake is easy and fun. Just follow my guide to make a yummy dessert for your loved ones. First, get all your ingredients and tools ready. This makes baking easier and more fun.
Preparation Tips for Success
- Make sure your eggs are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Accurate ingredient measurements are key for the right cake.
- Don’t overmix the batter to keep your cake soft and fluffy.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F for even baking.
- Use a 9″x5″ or 8.5″x4.5″ loaf pan for the perfect shape.
- In a big bowl, whisk 3 eggs and 3/4 cup (150g) of sugar until fluffy.
- Add 1/2 cup (118ml) of olive oil and 1/2 cup (113g) of Greek yogurt, stirring well.
- In another bowl, mix 1 and 3/4 cups (218g) of flour, 2 tsp of baking powder, and 1/4 tsp of salt.
- Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mix, mixing until smooth.
- Then, add the zest of 1 tablespoon of lemon for extra flavor.
- Put the batter in your loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan before moving it to a wire rack.
Lemon Yogurt Cake: Baking Tips and Tricks
To make the perfect lemon cake, pay close attention to every step. I’ve gathered key baking tips for a moist and tasty cake. First, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature helps the cake rise and get that nice golden color.
The baking time can change. I suggest setting your timer for 60 to 75 minutes. To check if it’s done, stick a toothpick in the middle. It should come out clean. Don’t let it overbake, or it will dry out.
Choosing the right ingredients is also key. Use fresh lemon juice and zest from two or three lemons. This will make your cake taste amazing. Plain yogurt is important for the cake’s texture. Try different types of yogurt to see what you like best.
After baking, let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes. Then, move it to a wire rack. This keeps it moist and prevents sticking. With these tips, your lemon yogurt cake will be a hit, making every bite special.
Glazing Your Lemon Yogurt Cake for Extra Zest
To make your Lemon Yogurt Cake even better, add a simple lemon glaze. It’s made with just two things: powdered sugar and fresh lemon juice. In about 15 minutes, you can make it and make your cake look amazing.
For the glaze, mix ⅓ cup of powdered sugar with juice from ½ lemon. If you want it thicker, add more sugar. For thinner, add more lemon juice. Drizzle it over your cooled cake to get a glossy finish.
This glaze adds a sweet touch and makes the tartness pop. It brings out the lemon flavor in the cake, making it irresistible. Glazing your cake turns it into a fancy dessert, great for any event.
Serving Suggestions for Your Lemon Cake
Serving lemon yogurt cake is fun. It goes well with many things. I like adding fresh raspberries and blueberries for color and taste.
A dollop of whipped cream makes it creamy. This makes the cake perfect.
Make it look good with lemon zest or powdered sugar. It makes each slice special. A sprig of mint on top is also nice.
You can also serve it with vanilla ice cream or yogurt. These add creaminess. It makes the cake great for any time.
Pairing Lemon Yogurt Cake with Other Treats
I love trying new desserts with my lemon yogurt cake. A favorite is having it with coffee. It makes the cake taste even better.
Fresh berries or a fruit salad are great with lemon yogurt cake too. They add sweetness and a cool twist. Adding whipped cream makes it even more special.
Herbal teas like chamomile or mint are also great. They pair well with the cake’s bright taste. It’s a perfect choice for a calm afternoon.
Storage Tips for Lemon Yogurt Cake
Keeping your Lemon Yogurt Cake fresh is key. These tips will help your cake stay yummy for longer. You’ll enjoy your homemade treats for days.
First, store it in an airtight container. This keeps moisture in and smells out. If it’s at room temperature, keep it in a cool, dry place. It can last up to three days this way.
For longer, refrigerate it. Your cake will stay fresh for a week in the fridge. Freezing is also an option. Wrap it well in plastic or foil, then in a freezer bag. It can last up to three months frozen.
To thaw, let it sit in the fridge overnight. Don’t refreeze it after thawing. Follow these tips for the best taste and texture of your cake.
Health Benefits of Using Yogurt in Baking
Yogurt makes my baked goods taste better and is good for me. It has lots of protein, about 2.6 grams per tablespoon. This makes my desserts healthier, like my Lemon Yogurt Cake.
Yogurt also has calcium and iodine, which are good for my health. The probiotics in yogurt help my gut and digestion. So, baking with yogurt is a win for me.
Yogurt makes my cakes super tender. Full-fat yogurt adds a rich taste and moist texture. It helps me stay lean and lower cholesterol.
Studies show yogurt can lower diabetes risk and support bones. This makes me choose healthier desserts that taste great.
Using yogurt in baking is more than just making tasty treats. It helps me eat a balanced diet. Yogurt boosts my immune system and mood.
By adding yogurt to my Lemon Yogurt Cake, I enjoy a dessert that’s good for me. It’s satisfying and healthy, thanks to wholesome ingredients.