Moist Lemon Yogurt Cake (Soft, Fluffy & Easy Recipe)

  • March 30, 2026

May be an image of chiffon cake, souffle and text that says 'Moist Lemon Yogurt Cake 3/4 cup (90 grams 3.10z) all-purpose flour 1 tsp baking powder 1/4 tsp salt 1/2 cup (100 grams 3.50z) granulated sugar tsp lemon zest or zest of one lemon 1/3 cup (93ml) whole milk plain Greek yoghurt 1/4 cup (60ml) canola oil le egg large 1/2 tsp vanilla extract'

This Moist Lemon Yogurt Cake is soft, tender, and bursting with fresh lemon flavor. Made with simple ingredients, it has a perfectly balanced sweetness and a light, fluffy texture that makes it ideal for any occasion.

πŸ“ Ingredients

  • ΒΎ cup (90g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ΒΌ teaspoon salt
  • Β½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (or zest of one lemon)
  • β…“ cup (93ml) plain Greek yogurt (full-fat recommended)
  • ΒΌ cup (60ml) neutral oil (canola or vegetable)
  • 1 large egg (room temperature)
  • Β½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

πŸ‘¨β€πŸ³ Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 175Β°C (350Β°F).
Grease and line a 6–7 inch round cake pan with parchment paper.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together:

  • Flour
  • Baking powder
  • Salt

Set aside.

3. Combine Sugar and Lemon Zest

In a separate bowl, rub the lemon zest into the sugar using your fingers.

πŸ‘‰ This releases natural oils and enhances lemon flavor.

4. Prepare Wet Ingredients

Add to the sugar mixture:

  • Egg
  • Yogurt
  • Oil
  • Vanilla extract
  • Lemon juice

Whisk until smooth and well combined.

5. Combine Batter

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
Mix gently until just combined.

πŸ‘‰ Do not overmix to keep the cake soft.

6. Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

7. Cool

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

πŸ”₯ Tips for Best Results

  • Use room temperature ingredients
  • Do not overmix the batter
  • Fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor
  • Full-fat yogurt makes the cake richer
  • Avoid overbaking to keep it moist

❓ FAQ

1. Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?

Yes, but Greek yogurt gives a thicker, richer texture.

2. Why is my cake dry?

It may be overbaked or have too much flour.

3. Can I add glaze on top?

Yes! A simple lemon glaze (powdered sugar + lemon juice) works perfectly.

4. How should I store this cake?

  • Room temperature: up to 2 days
  • Refrigerator: up to 5 days

5. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double all ingredients and use a larger pan.

πŸ’› Final Thoughts

This Lemon Yogurt Cake is:

  • Soft and moist
  • Light and fluffy
  • Fresh and zesty

A simple, everyday cake that tastes absolutely delicious every time.