Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
I absolutely love baking this Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake whenever I'm in need of a comforting treat. The combination of yogurt and almond flour gives it a moist texture that’s both unique and delicious. While experimenting with different flavors, I discovered that adding a hint of vanilla elevates the cake to a whole new level. Whether it’s for a cozy afternoon snack or a delightful dessert for guests, this cake never fails to impress and leaves everyone asking for seconds.
As I was experimenting with various cakes in my kitchen, I was drawn to the idea of incorporating yogurt, which I found to bring a lovely moisture to the bake. This Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake emerged as a standout with its soft crumb and delightful flavor. The aroma of almonds and vanilla filling the kitchen during baking is simply irresistible!
One of my favorite tips is to toast the almond flour lightly before mixing it into the batter. This simple step enhances the nutty flavor and adds a lovely golden hue to the cake. Trust me, this small detail makes all the difference!
Why You'll Love This Cake
- Moist and fluffy texture from the yogurt
- Nutty almond flavor with a sweet vanilla aroma
- Simple to make and perfect for any occasion
Understanding the Ingredients
Each ingredient in this Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake plays a crucial role in achieving the desired flavor and texture. The plain yogurt not only adds moisture but also a slight tang that balances the sweetness from the sugar. Using vegetable oil keeps the cake tender and light, while almond flour contributes a rich, nutty flavor and a delightful crumb. When combined with all-purpose flour, it creates a cake that is both airy and substantial, perfect for those who appreciate a nuanced dessert.
In this recipe, the eggs are essential for binding the ingredients together and providing structure. When whisked, they add volume to the batter, resulting in a fluffier cake. The inclusion of baking powder is vital for leavening; it helps the cake rise and achieve that lovely golden color. Calm and steady, the vanilla and almond extracts enhance the overall flavor profile, ensuring every bite is aromatic and satisfying. Adjusting the ratio of almond extract can create different flavor intensities.
Baking Technique Tips
To achieve the best results, it’s important to preheat your oven properly to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking. You can verify the temperature using an oven thermometer, which ensures you’re not left with an undercooked or overbaked cake. When greasing your cake pan, I recommend using a light coating of butter or oil followed by a dusting of flour; this helps prevent sticking, allowing for a clean release once the cake is baked.
As you mix the wet and dry ingredients, remember to combine them gently. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, while undermixing might leave pockets of flour and almond meal. A good mix should leave you with a smooth batter, visibly shiny without any lumps. While baking, keep an eye on the cake during the last 10 minutes; the top should be golden and a toothpick inserted should come out clean, indicating that it's ready to cool.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups almond flour
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
Instructions
Steps
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the yogurt, sugar, and vegetable oil until smooth. Add in the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, combine the almond flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
Add Almond Extract
Stir in the almond extract into the batter until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Pour and Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 40 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
Pro Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding some lemon zest or a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake shines on its own but can be elevated with simple toppings. A dusting of powdered sugar can add a touch of elegance, while a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream transforms it into a dessert centerpiece. For fruit lovers, consider serving it with fresh berries or a drizzle of fruit compote, which pairs beautifully with the nutty flavor of the cake.
For a more festive touch, you could drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and almond extract over the cooled cake. This not only adds sweetness but also enhances the almond flavor. You can experiment with flavors too; for instance, incorporating lemon zest into the batter can provide a refreshing twist that complements the almonds.
Make-Ahead and Storage
One of the benefits of this cake is its ability to store well, making it perfect for preparing in advance. Once the cake has completely cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, this cake can be frozen for up to 2 months; just slice it first for easy thawing, wrapping each piece individually to maintain freshness.
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen cake, simply let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator, or at room temperature for a couple of hours. If desired, you can reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a warm treat that feels fresh and inviting. This versatility makes it an exceptional option for spontaneous gatherings or planned get-togethers.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of yogurt?
Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt or even a non-dairy yogurt for a different flavor and texture.
→ How should I store the leftovers?
Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze this cake?
Absolutely! Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
→ What can I serve with this cake?
This cake pairs beautifully with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake
I absolutely love baking this Vanilla Almond Yogurt Cake whenever I'm in need of a comforting treat. The combination of yogurt and almond flour gives it a moist texture that’s both unique and delicious. While experimenting with different flavors, I discovered that adding a hint of vanilla elevates the cake to a whole new level. Whether it’s for a cozy afternoon snack or a delightful dessert for guests, this cake never fails to impress and leaves everyone asking for seconds.
What You'll Need
Cake Ingredients
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups almond flour
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
In a large bowl, whisk together the yogurt, sugar, and vegetable oil until smooth. Add in the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
In another bowl, combine the almond flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
Stir in the almond extract into the batter until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 40 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
Extra Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding some lemon zest or a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 160mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 34g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 20g
- Protein: 6g