Grandma’s Italian Yogurt Cake – Light, Moist, and Full of Tradition

Inspired by generations of classic Italian baking, this yogurt cake is tender, subtly sweet, and effortlessly elegant. Using simple pantry staples and wholesome ingredients, it delivers all the charm of a traditional dessert while being lighter and balanced. Perfect with coffee, tea, or as a no-fuss treat any time of day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple and Nostalgic: Just a few ingredients and one bowl, just like Grandma used to make.
Naturally Light: Greek yogurt keeps it moist without the need for lots of oil or butter.
Versatile Flavor: Delicious on its own or topped with berries, citrus glaze, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Perfect Anytime Cake: Ideal for breakfast, snacking, or a light dessert.

Ingredients

• 1 cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
• 2 eggs
• 1/3 cup light olive oil or unsweetened applesauce
• 1/2 cup granulated monk fruit sweetener or other sugar substitute
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 lemon (or orange for variation)
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or white whole wheat flour)
• 2 tsp baking powder
• Pinch of salt
• Optional: powdered sugar for dusting or fresh berries for topping

Instructions

Preheat Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease or line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

• In a large bowl, whisk together the yogurt, eggs, olive oil (or applesauce), sweetener, vanilla extract, and citrus zest until smooth.

Add Dry Ingredients

• Stir in the flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—stop as soon as the batter is smooth.

Bake the Cake

• Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
• Bake for 32–36 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Let cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutritional Information (Per Slice, Approximate)

• Calories: 160
• Carbs: 18g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 7g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 3g

Tips for Success

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps everything blend together smoothly and gives a more even rise.
• Add a Glaze or Dusting: A touch of powdered sugar or a lemon glaze takes this cake to the next level.
• Don’t Overbake: The cake should be lightly golden and just set in the middle to stay moist.
• Make It Seasonal: Add blueberries in summer or cinnamon and apple in fall for a fun twist.

Why This Recipe Works

• Moist Without Butter: Yogurt adds richness and moisture without the heaviness.
• Balanced Sweetness: Just sweet enough to satisfy while still feeling light and refreshing.
• One Bowl Wonder: Minimal cleanup with maximum flavor—perfect for busy days.
• A Taste of Home: Old-world flavor meets modern simplicity in every slice.

Grandma’s Italian Yogurt Cake is the kind of recipe that makes you feel at home. Moist, delicate, and lightly sweet, it’s the ultimate comfort cake—whether served plain, dressed up with fruit, or paired with your morning espresso. You’ll return to this easy classic again and again.