Discover how to make a classic French Yogurt Cake with this easy step-by-step recipe. Moist, tender, and lightly sweet, this traditional French cake uses yogurt as its base and is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or afternoon tea.

French Yogurt Cake

French Yogurt Cake, known in France as Gâteau au Yaourt, is one of the country’s most beloved homemade cakes. Traditionally taught to children as one of their first baking recipes, it is wonderfully simple, requiring basic pantry ingredients and a container of yogurt that doubles as the measuring cup.

The result is a soft, moist cake with a delicate crumb and subtle vanilla flavor. Enjoy it plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with fresh fruit for an effortless yet elegant dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy, beginner-friendly recipe
Moist and tender texture
Made with simple pantry ingredients
Perfect for breakfast, snack, or dessert
Customizable with fruit, citrus, or chocolate
No mixer required

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Bake Time: 30–35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 8–10
Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 container (5–6 ounces / 150–170 g) plain whole-milk yogurt
2 containers granulated sugar
3 containers all-purpose flour
½ container vegetable oil
3 large eggs
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Optional Add-Ins

Zest of 1 lemon or orange
½ cup chocolate chips
1 cup fresh berries
¼ teaspoon almond extract

For Serving

Powdered sugar for dusting
Fresh fruit
Whipped cream

Equipment Needed

8-inch round cake pan
Large mixing bowl
Whisk
Rubber spatula
Measuring spoons

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Grease an 8-inch round cake pan and lightly dust with flour, or line the bottom with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add:

Yogurt
Sugar
Eggs
Vanilla extract
Vegetable oil

Whisk until smooth and fully combined.

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients

Add:

Flour
Baking powder
Salt

Gently whisk until a smooth batter forms.

Avoid overmixing, as this can make the cake less tender.

Step 4: Add Optional Flavorings

If desired, fold in:

Lemon or orange zest
Chocolate chips
Fresh berries

Mix just until evenly distributed.

Step 5: Transfer the Batter

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan.

Use a spatula to smooth the top evenly.

Step 6: Bake

Place the cake in the preheated oven.

Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until:

The top is lightly golden
A toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean
The cake springs back when lightly touched

Step 7: Cool

Remove the cake from the oven.

Allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes.

Carefully transfer to a wire rack and cool completely.

Step 8: Serve

Dust the cooled cake lightly with powdered sugar.

Slice and serve as is, or top with fresh berries and whipped cream.

Serving Suggestions

French Yogurt Cake is delicious served with:

Fresh strawberries or raspberries
Lemon curd
Fruit preserves
Vanilla whipped cream
Coffee or tea
A scoop of vanilla ice cream

Storage Instructions

Room Temperature

Store covered at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Refrigerate

Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Freeze

Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Tips for Success

Use full-fat yogurt for the most tender crumb.
Do not overmix the batter.
Add citrus zest for a classic French flavor variation.
Check for doneness a few minutes early, as oven temperatures vary.
Allow the cake to cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar.
Use room-temperature eggs for a smoother batter.

Variations

Lemon Yogurt Cake

Add the zest of 2 lemons and 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice.

Orange Yogurt Cake

Incorporate orange zest and a simple orange glaze after baking.

Berry Yogurt Cake

Fold 1 cup fresh blueberries, raspberries, or chopped strawberries into the batter.

Chocolate Chip Yogurt Cake

Add ½ cup mini chocolate chips for a sweeter treat.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of yogurt works best?

Plain whole-milk yogurt provides the richest flavor and texture, though Greek yogurt can also be used for a denser cake.

Can I use flavored yogurt?

Yes, but it may alter the sweetness and flavor profile of the cake.

Why is this cake so popular in France?

It’s simple, reliable, and traditionally one of the first cakes French children learn to bake because the yogurt container serves as the measuring tool.

Can I make it in a loaf pan?

Yes. Bake in a greased loaf pan for approximately 40–45 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.

Final Thoughts

French Yogurt Cake is proof that the simplest recipes are often the most satisfying. With its moist texture, delicate sweetness, and effortless preparation, this classic French dessert is perfect for any occasion. Whether served plain with coffee, dressed up with fresh fruit, or enjoyed as an afternoon snack, this timeless cake brings a touch of French home baking to your table.