Go Back

Lemon Yogurt Cake

This Lemon Yogurt Cake is soft, moist, and packed with fresh lemon flavor in every bite. Made with simple pantry ingredients and finished with a light lemon yogurt glaze, it’s an easy homemade cake that’s perfect for afternoon tea, family gatherings, or whenever you’re craving a fresh citrus dessert.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 285
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Lemon Cake
  • 1¼ cups (180g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon baking soda
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup (60ml) sunflower oil (or vegetable/canola oil)
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • ½ cup (120ml) full-fat plain yogurt, room temperature
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest
  • ¼ cup (60ml) whole milk, room temperature
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Lemon Yogurt Glaze
  • 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
  • 1 tablespoon plain full-fat yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8-inch round cake pan.
  2. Rub the lemon zest into the sugar until fragrant.
  3. Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  4. In another bowl, whisk together the oil, egg, yogurt, milk, lemon juice, and vanilla.
  5. Fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined.
  6. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
  7. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  8. Cool in the pan for 20 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
  9. Whisk together the glaze ingredients until smooth.
  10. Pour the glaze over the cooled cake and finish with extra lemon zest if desired.

Notes

  • Fresh lemon zest provides the strongest citrus flavor.
  • Don’t overmix the batter if you want a soft, tender crumb.
  • Let the cake cool completely before glazing.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep the cake moist.
  • For the best flavor, use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled juice.