One Bowl Lemon Yogurt has become my go-to recipe for a burst of sunshine in my kitchen. I still remember the first time I whipped up this dessert for a family brunch; the aroma of fresh lemon zest filled every corner, making everyone smile before they even took a bite. It’s truly an Easy Lemon Yogurt Cake that brings back memories of simple, joyful moments. My daughter, who usually shies away from anything not chocolate, devoured her slice and asked for seconds! This recipe for how to make one bowl lemon yogurt cake is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, offering a tender crumb and vibrant citrus flavor without any fuss. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This One Bowl Lemon Yogurt
I promise, this One Bowl Lemon Yogurt recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. It’s incredibly straightforward and delivers on flavor every single time. Here’s why I think you’ll adore it:
- Incredible Taste: The bright, zesty lemon combined with the creamy yogurt creates a perfectly balanced, moist, and flavorful cake.
- Minimal Cleanup: As the name suggests, you only need one bowl, making post-baking cleanup a breeze.
- Quick Lemon Yogurt Recipe: This is truly a quick lemon yogurt recipe, perfect for when you need a delicious dessert in a hurry.
- Surprisingly Simple: Even if you’re new to baking, this recipe is incredibly forgiving and easy to follow.
- Budget-Friendly: Made with common pantry staples, it won’t break the bank.
- Family Favorite: Everyone, from kids to adults, will love this delightful treat.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as a dessert, a breakfast treat, or an afternoon snack.
- Quick Lemon Yogurt Recipe: Its speed and simplicity make it the best quick lemon yogurt recipe for spontaneous baking.
Ingredients for One Bowl Lemon Yogurt
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful cake. I love how simple the list is for this One Bowl Lemon Yogurt recipe, making it accessible for any baker. Here’s everything you’ll need for this easy and delicious simple lemon yogurt bake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – the foundation for our cake’s structure.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – for that perfect sweetness that balances the lemon.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder – our leavening agent, ensuring a light and fluffy texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – a tiny but mighty ingredient that enhances all the flavors.
- 1 cup Greek yogurt – my secret for an incredibly moist crumb and tangy flavor.
- 3 large eggs – make sure they’re at room temperature for better incorporation.
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil – contributes to the cake’s tenderness and moisture.
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest – where all that bright, intense lemon flavor truly comes from.
- 1/4 cup lemon juice – for a zesty kick and to activate the baking powder.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – a classic complement to citrus, adding depth.
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for optional glaze) – for a sweet, bright topping.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (for optional glaze) – to whisk into your powdered sugar for a vibrant glaze.
How to Make One Bowl Lemon Yogurt
Making this cake is incredibly simple, and I promise you’ll love how quickly it comes together. Just follow these steps for a perfectly baked, tender, and flavorful treat. This process ensures you get a delightful moist lemon yogurt cake recipe every time.
- Step 1: First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Next, grab a 9-inch round pan and grease it thoroughly. I always line mine with parchment paper to ensure easy removal and those lovely golden cake edges.
- Step 2: In your designated “one bowl,” whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Make sure they’re perfectly combined and no lumps remain. This dry mixture is the base for our delicious One Bowl Lemon Yogurt.
- Step 3: Now, it’s time for the wet ingredients! Crack in the eggs, pour in the creamy Greek yogurt and vegetable oil. Then, stir in the vibrant lemon zest, tangy lemon juice, and aromatic vanilla extract. Mix until everything is just combined into a smooth, pale-yellow batter.
- Step 4: Gently fold the mixture using a spatula, making sure to scrape the sides of the bowl to incorporate every last bit. This gentle folding is key to achieving that tender crumb we’re aiming for in our moist lemon yogurt cake recipe. Remember, don’t overmix!
- Step 5: Pour the beautifully scented batter into your prepared pan. It should fill it nicely, ready for baking.
- Step 6: Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is a gorgeous golden brown. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your One Bowl Lemon Yogurt cake is perfectly cooked. The aroma filling your kitchen will be incredible!
- Step 7: While the cake cools, prepare the optional glaze. In a small bowl, whisk the powdered sugar with the lemon juice until it’s smooth and pourable. Adjust the amount of juice to get your desired thickness. This glaze adds an extra layer of zesty sweetness.
- Step 8: Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before carefully inverting it onto a wire rack. Once fully cooled, drizzle the glaze in a pretty zigzag pattern over the top. This simple glaze elevates the presentation and adds a lovely bright finish to your One Bowl Lemon Yogurt cake.
Pro Tips for the Best One Bowl Lemon Yogurt
I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that guarantee your One Bowl Lemon Yogurt cake turns out perfectly every single time. These simple tips will elevate your baking and ensure a delicious, moist result.
- Always use room temperature ingredients, especially the eggs and yogurt. This helps them incorporate smoothly into the batter, preventing lumps and creating a uniform texture for your One Bowl Lemon Yogurt.
- Do not overmix the batter! Once the wet and dry ingredients are just combined, stop mixing. Overmixing develops the gluten too much, which can lead to a tough cake instead of a tender one.
- For the brightest flavor, zest your lemons just before adding them to the batter. The oils in the zest are most potent when fresh.
- Invest in an oven thermometer. Oven temperatures can vary, and an accurate reading ensures your One Bowl Lemon Yogurt cake bakes evenly and perfectly without guesswork.

What’s the secret to perfect Fluffy lemon yogurt cake?
The secret to a truly Fluffy lemon yogurt cake lies in the quality of your Greek yogurt and not overmixing. The yogurt adds moisture and a slight acidity that reacts with the baking powder, creating a light, airy crumb. It’s a truly no-fuss lemon yogurt cake when you let the ingredients do their work.
Can I make One Bowl Lemon Yogurt ahead of time?
Absolutely! This One Bowl Lemon Yogurt cake is excellent for making ahead. You can bake it a day in advance, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Store it at room temperature. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it even more delicious.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Lemon Yogurt Cake for beginners?
For beginners, avoiding two common pitfalls will ensure a successful One Bowl Lemon Yogurt cake. First, don’t overmix the batter; mix only until just combined to keep it tender. Second, always check your cake for doneness with a toothpick to prevent overbaking, which can lead to a dry cake.
Best Ways to Serve One Bowl Lemon Yogurt
Once your delightful One Bowl Lemon Yogurt is baked and cooled, the serving possibilities are endless! I love how versatile this cake is, making it suitable for almost any occasion. Here are my favorite ways to enjoy this simple lemon yogurt bake:
- For a classic presentation, serve slices of your One Bowl Lemon Yogurt with a generous drizzle of the optional lemon yogurt cake with glaze. The extra tang and sweetness from the glaze truly elevate the citrus notes. A few fresh berries, like raspberries or blueberries, make a beautiful and tasty garnish.
- This cake is absolutely perfect as a light dessert after dinner. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream alongside a slice of One Bowl Lemon Yogurt creates a truly indulgent treat.
- Don’t limit this to dessert! I often enjoy a slice of One Bowl Lemon Yogurt with my morning coffee or as an afternoon snack. Its bright flavor is a wonderful pick-me-up any time of day.
Nutrition Facts for One Bowl Lemon Yogurt
I find it helpful to know the nutritional breakdown, especially when enjoying a treat like our delicious One Bowl Lemon Yogurt. Here’s an estimate of what you can expect per serving (this recipe yields 8 slices):
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
Please remember that these nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on the specific brands and ingredients you choose for your One Bowl Lemon Yogurt cake.
How to Store and Reheat One Bowl Lemon Yogurt Cake
Proper storage is key to keeping your delicious One Bowl Lemon Yogurt cake fresh and moist for as long as possible. Once your One Bowl Lemon Yogurt cake has completely cooled, which is crucial to prevent condensation, you’ll want to store it carefully.
For short-term storage, cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will keep beautifully at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. This makes it a fantastic one pan lemon yogurt dessert to enjoy throughout the week.
If you’re looking to enjoy your One Bowl Lemon Yogurt for longer, it freezes wonderfully! Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap, then an additional layer of aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature, or warm gently in the microwave for a few seconds until just right.

Frequently Asked Questions About One Bowl Lemon Yogurt
Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt for One Bowl Lemon Yogurt?
Yes, you can! If you’re out of Greek yogurt, you can use regular plain yogurt, but I recommend straining it first to remove some of the excess liquid. This helps maintain the desired moisture and texture in your One Bowl Lemon Yogurt cake, ensuring it remains tender and delicious.
What is One Bowl Lemon Yogurt and why is it called “one bowl”?
One Bowl Lemon Yogurt refers to a cake recipe where all the ingredients, both wet and dry, are mixed together in a single bowl. This method significantly reduces cleanup and simplifies the baking process. It’s a fantastic, fuss-free way to make a delicious lemon cake, perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
Can I add fruit to my One Bowl Lemon Yogurt cake?
Absolutely! Adding fruits like blueberries or raspberries can be a wonderful addition to your One Bowl Lemon Yogurt cake. I suggest tossing them lightly in a tablespoon of flour before folding them into the batter. This prevents them from sinking to the bottom during baking, ensuring an even distribution of fruity goodness throughout.
How do I know when my One Bowl Lemon Yogurt cake is fully baked?
You’ll know your One Bowl Lemon Yogurt cake is fully baked when the top is golden brown and a wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This usually happens around the 35–40 minute mark, but ovens can vary, so keep an eye on it!
Variations of One Bowl Lemon Yogurt You Can Try
While the classic One Bowl Lemon Yogurt is fantastic as is, I love experimenting with variations to keep things exciting! This recipe is incredibly adaptable, allowing you to tailor it to different tastes or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing:
- For a delightful twist, consider adding a handful of fresh blueberries or raspberries to the batter before baking. The berries burst with flavor, complementing the lemon beautifully, and make for a vibrant healthy lemon yogurt dessert option.
- If you’re looking for a richer, more decadent flavor, try swapping out a quarter cup of the vegetable oil for melted butter. This adds a lovely depth to the One Bowl Lemon Yogurt.
- To make a gluten-free version, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Make sure your blend contains xanthan gum for the best texture in your One Bowl Lemon Yogurt.
- For an extra citrus punch, you could fold in a tablespoon of finely chopped candied lemon peel. This adds both texture and an intense lemon flavor that true lemon lovers will adore in their One Bowl Lemon Yogurt.
One Bowl Lemon Yogurt: 1 Amazing, Moist Cake Secret
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This one bowl lemon yogurt cake recipe delivers a moist, zesty, and easy-to-make dessert, perfect for any occasion. It’s a simple lemon yogurt bake with a tender crumb and vibrant citrus flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for optional glaze)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (for optional glaze)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch round pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal and golden cake edges for your lemon yogurt cake.
- In your one bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until they are evenly combined and free of lumps.
- Crack in the eggs, pour in the Greek yogurt and vegetable oil, then stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until just combined into a smooth, pale-yellow batter for your easy lemon yogurt cake.
- Gently fold the mixture using a spatula, making sure to scrape the sides to incorporate every bit. Be careful not to overmix to maintain a tender crumb for your one bowl lemon yogurt.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating a perfectly cooked moist lemon yogurt cake.
- For the optional glaze, in a small bowl, whisk the powdered sugar with fresh lemon juice until smooth and pourable. Adjust the amount of juice to reach your desired thickness for this quick lemon yogurt dessert.
- Let the lemon yogurt cake cool for 10 minutes in the pan before inverting. Then, drizzle the glaze in a zigzag pattern over the cooled cake for an elegant shine and extra citrus zing.
Notes
- Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter and even rise in your one bowl lemon yogurt cake.
- Do not overmix the batter; mix until just combined to ensure a tender crumb.
- Grate lemon zest just before mixing to capture the brightest oils and fullest citrus aroma for your simple lemon yogurt bread.
- Greasing and lining the pan with parchment paper is crucial for easy release and to prevent sticking.
- Start checking the cake’s doneness around 35 minutes to avoid overbaking and drying out your delicious lemon yogurt loaf cake.
- Optional: Top with thin lemon slices or a sprinkle of zest for garnish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg












Leave a Reply