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 teaspoon almond extract; 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ cup sliced almonds (for topping)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

When it comes to baking, I've always had a soft spot for yogurt cakes. The Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake is a perfect example of this. I love how the yogurt adds a moist texture and a hint of tanginess, balancing the sweetness. The subtle nutty flavor from the almonds also elevates every bite, making it a delightful treat for both breakfast and dessert. Every time I bake this cake, it disappears quickly, and my family always asks for seconds. It’s truly a crowd-pleaser that’s simple to make!

Created by

Tabitha Green

Last updated on 2026-01-16T00:16:28.317Z

Baking this Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake was a joyful journey for me. I remember the first time I tried it; the blend of vanilla and almond aromas filled my kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere. Watching the cake rise in the oven, I was excited to see how the yogurt's moistness would translate, and I was not disappointed. Every slice that came out was fluffy and delectable.

I discovered that incorporating almond extract along with the vanilla truly makes a difference. It enhances the cake’s flavor profile without overpowering it. Baking it just until golden brown ensures it remains tender, and using yogurt keeps the cake light. Trust me, this will become a staple in your baking repertoire!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich vanilla flavor complemented by almonds
Incredibly moist texture that's easy to enjoy
Perfect for any occasion, from breakfast to dessert

      

Understanding Yogurt Cakes

Yogurt cakes are beloved for their unique texture and flavor, primarily thanks to the yogurt itself. The yogurt adds moisture and a subtle tang, which contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the sugar. This brings a lovely complexity to the Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake, making it more than just a standard cake. It is also an excellent choice for those who find heavier cakes too rich, allowing you to enjoy a slice without feeling overly indulgent.

Another benefit of incorporating yogurt is that it can help to keep the cake fresh for longer. The acidity in yogurt acts as a natural preservative, which means this cake can stay moist even a few days after baking. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge, depending on your preference.

The Role of Almonds

Almonds not only add a delightful crunch but also contribute a nutty flavor that elevates the overall taste profile of the Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake. By toasting the sliced almonds lightly before adding them on top, you can intensify their flavor, resulting in a more aromatic experience. I recommend toasting them at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until they start to become golden brown—this step is worth the extra effort for that added depth.

If you're looking for a nut-free version of this cake, consider using sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds as a topping instead. These alternatives will provide a similar crunch without the allergens associated with nuts. Just ensure to mix them into the batter if you want that nutty flavor throughout the cake.

Smart Baking Tips

To achieve the best rise with your Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake, make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature before you begin mixing. Cold eggs or yogurt can shock the batter and impede the rising process, resulting in a denser cake. It can help to take your eggs and yogurt out of the fridge an hour before you plan to bake for optimal results.

As you pour the batter into the cake pan, give it a gentle shake to eliminate any air bubbles that may have formed. This step is crucial for ensuring an even bake and a uniform texture throughout the cake. If you notice that the edges are browning too quickly towards the end of the baking time, you can cover the top loosely with aluminum foil to help regulate the cooking without drying it out.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake:

For the Cake

1 cup plain yogurt
1 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 teaspoon almond extract
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ cup sliced almonds (for topping)

Make sure you have everything before you begin!

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake your delicious Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake:

Preheat the Oven

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, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract until fully combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Pour and Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and sprinkle the sliced almonds on top. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve plain or with a dollop of yogurt.

Enjoy your homemade Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a bit of lemon zest to the batter or serving with fresh fruit on the side.

Serving Suggestions

Serving the Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake is just as fun as baking it. For a breakfast treat, you can slice and serve it warm, alongside fresh fruit or a dollop of Greek yogurt. The fruit adds a refreshing note that complements the sweetness of the cake beautifully, while yogurt provides a lovely tang that aligns perfectly with the overall flavor profile.

For dessert, consider pairing the cake with a drizzle of honey or a scoop of almond ice cream. This combination can elevate the cake to a next-level dessert experience, fusing rich flavors with a creamy texture that is satisfying and indulgent.

Storage and Freezing

To keep your Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. If it starts to dry out, a light frosting made from whipped cream could revive some moisture and keep it enjoyable for longer. You can also place a slice of bread in the container; this can help absorb moisture and prolong the cake's freshness.

For longer storage, freezing is a great option! Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This can keep the cake fresh for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature or in the refrigerator overnight, and pop it in the oven for a few minutes if you'd like to warm it up before serving.

Baking Variations

Experimenting with flavors can be one of the most enjoyable parts of baking! If you're looking to switch things up with your Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake, try adding different extracts like coconut or lemon, which can bring a bright twist to the traditional flavor. A teaspoon of lemon zest mixed into your wet ingredients can provide a fresh, zesty note that pairs beautifully with the yogurt.

You can also substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend if you need a gluten-free version. Just make sure the blend includes xanthan gum to help bind the ingredients. This substitution has worked well in my experience, yielding a delightful cake that stays true to the original's moistness and flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use Greek yogurt instead of regular yogurt?

Yes, Greek yogurt works well and will make the cake even more dense and moist.

→ What can I substitute for almond extract?

You can use additional vanilla extract or omit it if you prefer a plain yogurt cake.

→ How should I store leftover cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It can also be refrigerated for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Thaw it at room temperature before serving.