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 granulated sugar; 1/3 cup vegetable oil; 3 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup chopped toasted almonds

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I’ve come to adore this Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake for its moist texture and subtle sweetness. The yogurt not only adds a creamy richness but also contributes to a delightful flavor that isn’t overpoweringly sweet. Every bite is enhanced by the warm, nutty aroma of toasted almonds, making it an ideal treat for breakfast or dessert. This cake is surprisingly quick to prepare and bake, allowing me to enjoy my favorite flavors without taking all day in the kitchen.

Created by

Lucy Bennett

Last updated on 2026-01-15T22:16:12.594Z

When I first tried making a yogurt-based cake, I was amazed by how the yogurt creates an incredibly tender crumb. I decided to elevate the traditional recipe by adding vanilla and almonds, which quickly became my go-to flavor combination. Toasting the almonds before adding them not only enhances their nuttiness but also brings out their natural oils, providing a rich depth to the cake.

This Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake is perfect for sharing at gatherings or even as a satisfying snack with coffee. It’s such a simplistic recipe that you can whip it up on a whim, and it never fails to impress friends and family with its delightful flavors.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Moist and tender texture thanks to yogurt
Rich vanilla with a nutty crunch from almonds
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any occasion

      

The Role of Yogurt

Yogurt plays a crucial role in creating the moist texture of this Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake. It provides both moisture and a subtle tanginess that balances the sweetness. I recommend using full-fat yogurt for the richest flavor and creaminess, but if you prefer a lighter version, low-fat yogurt can still yield impressive results. Greek yogurt can also be a substitute if you're looking for extra thickness; just remember to adjust the sugar slightly, as it can be a bit more tart.

When incorporating yogurt, ensure it’s at room temperature before mixing it with other wet ingredients. This helps create a smoother batter and allows for better emulsification with the oil and eggs, ensuring a uniform rise. A well-mixed batter is key to avoiding dense pockets in your cake, so take your time here.

Perfecting Your Almonds

Toasting the almonds elevates their flavor, adding a lovely nuttiness that enhances the cake. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spread the chopped almonds on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake them for about 5-7 minutes, or until they’re fragrant and lightly golden. Keep a close watch, as they can quickly go from perfectly toasted to burned. Let them cool completely before adding them to the batter; this prevents them from softening the cake.

If you don’t have almonds on hand or want to switch things up, other nuts like pecans or walnuts can work beautifully too. Just chop them up similarly and toast them as you would the almonds. A sprinkle of cinnamon can also complement the nutty flavor wonderfully, creating an intriguing flavor combination in every bite.

Serving and Storage Tips

Once your Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake has cooled completely, it store well at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for a week. To keep it fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. If you want to make it ahead of time, it also freezes beautifully! Just slice the cake, wrap individual pieces in plastic, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw slices in the refrigerator or at room temperature whenever you need a quick treat.

For serving, you can enjoy this cake plain, but a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and almond extract can add an additional layer of sweetness. Pairing the cake with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream can also brighten up the flavors, making it a versatile dessert suitable for various occasions.

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 cup plain yogurt
1 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chopped toasted almonds

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare

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, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Blend the Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the toasted almonds.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and 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 before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, drizzle with a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and vanilla extract. You can also substitute some of the yogurt for sour cream for a tangier taste.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your cake doesn't rise well, it might be due to old baking powder or baking soda. Always check the expiration date before using these leavening agents, and store them in a cool, dry place to extend their potency. It can also help to slightly adjust your oven temperature if you suspect it is running too hot or too cold.

Another common issue is overmixing the batter, which can result in a tough cake texture. Mix just until the dry ingredients are moistened and no significant flour streaks remain. It's okay if the batter looks a bit lumpy; this will ensure a tender crumb once baked.

Cake Variations

While this Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake is delicious as-is, you can easily customize it by adding fruits like blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist. Fold in about 1 cup of fresh or frozen berries with the almonds for added flavor and visual appeal. Chocolate chips can also be a delightful addition for a more indulgent version.

If you're looking to limit sugar, consider substituting half of the granulated sugar with honey or maple syrup. Keep in mind that liquid sweeteners can slightly impact the cake's texture, so you might need to adjust the flour by adding a few tablespoons more to maintain the right consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use Greek yogurt for this recipe?

Yes, Greek yogurt works well and will make the cake even thicker and richer.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for a longer shelf life.

→ Can I make this cake in advance?

Absolutely! The flavors often improve after a day, so making it a day ahead is perfect.

→ What can I use instead of almonds?

You can swap almonds for other nuts or even chocolate chips if you're feeling adventurous!