Name: Lemon Yogurt Cake with Lemon Glaze Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled); ½ cup almond flour (spooned and leveled); 2 teaspoons baking powder; ¾ teaspoon sea salt; ½ cup cane sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon zest (plus more for sprinkling); ¾ cup whole milk Greek yogurt; ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil (plus more for the pan); 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla flavoring; See referenced lemon glaze recipe (typically powdered sugar, lemon juice, and sometimes lemon zest)

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 6 reviews

If you’re searching for a dessert that feels like a bright ray of sunshine on your plate, look no further than this Lemon Yogurt Cake with Lemon Glaze Recipe. It’s moist, tender, and bursting with fresh lemon flavor, thanks to the perfect combination of Greek yogurt and vibrant lemon zest. The accompanying lemon glaze adds a glossy, tangy finish that elevates every bite. It’s a delightful balance of sweetness and citrus that makes this cake a go-to for everything from afternoon tea to weekend gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white plate with creamy white yogurt placed near the top center with a spoon inside it. To the right, there is a glass bowl filled with golden yellow oil. Below it to the right, a large white bowl contains three layers of fine powders in shades of white and light beige, mixed together with a wooden spoon resting inside. On the left side, near the top, two brown eggs sit on the white marbled surface next to a small white bowl filled with dark amber liquid. Below that is a clear glass bowl with white sugar. At the center bottom, a wooden cutting board holds one lemon cut in half with a silver knife resting on it and two whole yellow lemons around it. A small wooden bowl with white salt and brown spice sits near the cutting board. The whole setup is placed on a white marbled background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Each ingredient in this Lemon Yogurt Cake with Lemon Glaze Recipe has been thoughtfully chosen to create a harmonious blend of texture, flavor, and moisture. From the tender crumb given by almond flour to the luscious zing of lemon zest, every component plays a crucial role.

All-purpose flour: Provides structure to the cake while keeping the crumb light.
Almond flour: Adds moistness and a subtle nutty flavor that complements the lemon beautifully.
Baking powder: Gives the cake its lovely rise and fluffy texture.
Sea salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing the sweetness and brightness.
Cane sugar: Sweetens naturally with a hint of caramel depth.
Lemon zest: Delivers an intense, fresh lemon aroma and taste that’s key to this recipe.
Whole milk Greek yogurt: Keeps the cake wonderfully moist with a gentle tang.
Extra-virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps create a soft crumb.
Eggs: Bind everything together and provide stability.
Vanilla flavoring: Offers a subtle sweet warmth that complements citrus perfectly.

How to Make Lemon Yogurt Cake with Lemon Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F, which ensures an even and steady bake. Lightly oil an 8×4-inch loaf pan so your cake won’t stick and releases easily after baking, preserving its beautiful shape.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, baking powder, and sea salt. This step ensures even distribution of rising agents and seasoning throughout the batter, forming the base for a well-risen cake.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk the cane sugar with the lemon zest until fragrant and well blended. Then add the Greek yogurt, olive oil, eggs, and vanilla flavoring, whisking everything together until smooth. The lemon zest mixed with sugar creates a flavorful burst, while the yogurt and oil make the cake tender and moist.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Gently pour the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients and stir together until just combined. Resist the urge to overmix, as this keeps the cake light and soft rather than dense and tough.

Step 5: Bake with Care

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and bake for 40 to 50 minutes. The cake is ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it towards the end to avoid overbaking which could dry it out.

Step 6: Cool and Glaze

Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before removing. This resting time is essential to let the crumb set. Once cooled, drizzle your homemade lemon glaze generously over the top and sprinkle with extra lemon zest for a bright, inviting finish.

How to Serve Lemon Yogurt Cake with Lemon Glaze Recipe

The image shows a loaf of lemon cake with three slices cut and stacked on top of a white plate with a blue pattern, placed on a white marbled surface. The cake has a golden-brown crust on the edges and a moist, light yellow inside with a slightly crumbly texture. Each slice is topped with a smooth, shiny layer of white icing that is dusted with small pieces of yellow lemon zest. To the left, there is a halved lemon with a bright yellow interior, and a blue cloth is partially visible nearby. A black knife is placed next to the plate, slightly angled. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of fresh lemon zest right after glazing brings a fresh pop of citrus aroma that makes the cake even more irresistible. You can also add edible flowers or a dusting of powdered sugar for a delicate, elegant touch that’ll wow your guests.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. For a fruity contrast, serve with fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries that add both color and complementary tartness to each bite.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the cake into thin rounds and serving atop small dessert plates with a drizzle of extra lemon glaze on the side. For a rustic fête, present the entire loaf on a wooden board garnished with lemon slices and mint sprigs to make the table feel warm and inviting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Lemon Yogurt Cake with Lemon Glaze Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This helps maintain the cake’s tender crumb and prevents the glaze from drying out.

Freezing

You can freeze the cake either whole or sliced. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place inside a freezer bag. It will keep well for up to two months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

For a freshly baked feel, warm slices briefly in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds or pop them into a toaster oven at low heat for a few minutes. This revives the cake’s softness and melts the glaze slightly for a luscious treat.

FAQs

Can I substitute almond flour with more all-purpose flour?

Yes, but almond flour adds moisture and a subtle nutty flavor that all-purpose flour alone can’t replicate. If you substitute, consider adding a tablespoon of oil to keep the cake moist.

Is Greek yogurt essential in this recipe?

Greek yogurt contributes tanginess and moisture, ensuring a tender crumb. You can substitute with regular plain yogurt, but whole milk Greek yogurt works best to achieve the distinct texture and flavor.

How can I make the lemon glaze thicker?

Add more powdered sugar gradually to the glaze until it reaches your desired consistency. A thicker glaze will hold its shape better on the cake, but be careful not to make it too sweet.

Can I use a different pan size?

An 8×4-inch loaf pan is ideal for this cake to achieve the right depth and bake time. If using a different size, adjust baking time accordingly and watch closely to avoid under- or over-baking.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum. The almond flour already adds moisture so the texture should remain lovely.

Final Thoughts

Making this Lemon Yogurt Cake with Lemon Glaze Recipe is like inviting a burst of sunshine into your kitchen and your day. Its moist texture, bright flavors, and simple elegance make it a fantastic dessert to share or savor anytime. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover how effortlessly it becomes a new favorite on your baking list.