Grandma’s Italian Yogurt Cake

Grandma’s Italian Yogurt Cake is a simple, moist, and delicious cake that’s made with yogurt, which adds a rich texture and subtle tang. It’s a popular Italian dessert, often enjoyed for breakfast or as a light dessert after a meal. Here’s a classic recipe for you to try!

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 1 cup plain yogurt (whole or Greek yogurt works best)

• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar

• 3 large eggs

• 1/2 cup vegetable oil or melted butter

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tablespoon baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

• A pinch of salt

• Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for extra flavor)

For the Glaze (Optional):

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar

• 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon water (to adjust consistency)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or a 9×9 square pan, or line it with parchment paper.

2. Prepare the Cake Batter:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the yogurt, sugar, eggs, vegetable oil (or melted butter), and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and combined.

2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

3. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until combined. If using lemon zest, fold it into the batter at this point for a bright, fresh flavor.

4. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly.

3. Bake the Cake:

1. Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick or cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean.

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

4. Make the Glaze (Optional):

1. While the cake cools, make the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and water in a small bowl until smooth.

2. If you want the glaze to be thicker, use less water; for a thinner glaze, add a bit more water.

5. Glaze and Serve:

1. Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top of the cake, allowing it to gently drip down the sides.

2. Slice and enjoy the cake, which should be moist and flavorful with a subtle tang from the yogurt and a hint of lemon (if you added zest).

This Italian Yogurt Cake is light, moist, and perfect with a cup of coffee or tea. It’s a wonderful, simple dessert that’s full of homemade charm, just like Grandma used to make! 😊🍰