Chocolate Yogurt Snack Cake

Name: Chocolate Yogurt Snack Cake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup plain yogurt; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Highlighted under: Home Baking Collection

I recently discovered the joy of baking with yogurt, and this Chocolate Yogurt Snack Cake has quickly become one of my favorites. The moist texture and rich flavor elevate this simple cake, making it perfect for a quick snack or a delightful dessert. Using yogurt not only helps create a tender crumb but also adds a slight tang that beautifully complements the chocolate. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this easy and delicious treat that your family will love as much as I do.

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2026-02-14T23:43:35.994Z

When I first tried baking with yogurt, I was amazed at how it transformed the texture of my cakes. This Chocolate Yogurt Snack Cake is one of those recipes that turned out perfectly after my first attempt. I found that the yogurt not only made the cake light and fluffy but also kept it moist for days. It was an instant hit in my household!

I’ve discovered that adding a pinch of espresso powder enhances the chocolate flavor without making the cake taste like coffee, ensuring a deep, rich chocolate experience. Additionally, serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream takes it to another level of indulgence. Trust me, you’ll want to make this again and again!

Why You'll Love This Cake
Rich chocolate flavor paired with the tanginess of yogurt
Decadently moist and fluffy texture that everyone will enjoy
Quick and easy to make for last-minute cravings

Understanding Yogurt in Baking

Yogurt plays a crucial role in this Chocolate Yogurt Snack Cake, not just for its moisture content but also for the tender crumb it imparts. The acidity in yogurt reacts with the baking soda, providing a slight lift to the cake while enhancing its texture. When using yogurt, it’s important to select plain varieties without added sugar or flavorings, as these can alter the cake's desired taste and consistency. Low-fat yogurt can be used, but avoid fat-free varieties for better richness.

In this recipe, the tanginess of the yogurt balances beautifully with the richness of cocoa powder, creating a complex flavor profile that elevates the cake beyond ordinary chocolate treats. Not only does yogurt enhance moisture but it also prolongs the shelf life of your baked goods. You can even experiment with Greek yogurt for an extra creamy texture and increased protein content, helping to slightly bump up the cake's nutritional value while still keeping its indulgent nature.

Baking Techniques and Tips

Mixing techniques are essential to achieving the perfect texture in your cake. Be mindful when incorporating the dry ingredients into the wet mixture; you want to combine them just until the flour disappears. Avoid over-mixing, as this can lead to a denser cake due to gluten formation. An ideal cake batter should be smooth and slightly thick but still pourable, demonstrating a ribbon-like quality when lifted with a spatula.

When it comes to baking time, oven variations must be taken into account. While the recipe suggests 20 minutes, keep an eye on your cake during the last few minutes. Look for a springy top and golden edges, which are indicators of doneness. If you insert a toothpick and it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s time to remove your cake from the oven. Allowing it to cool slightly before transferring it to a wire rack will help maintain its structural integrity.

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 cup plain yogurt
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix.

Add Chocolate Chips

Fold in the chocolate chips if using, and pour the batter into the prepared cake pan.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve with whipped cream or ice cream if desired.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a teaspoon of espresso powder to the batter. This enhances the chocolate taste without adding any coffee flavor. You can also replace half of the granulated sugar with brown sugar for a richer flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This Chocolate Yogurt Snack Cake can be enjoyed simply on its own, but you can elevate it further by adding toppings. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream complements the rich chocolate flavor beautifully. For an extra indulgent treat, drizzle a homemade chocolate ganache over the top, which can be made by melting chocolate with a touch of cream until glossy and smooth.

You might consider dusting the finished cake with powdered sugar or cocoa powder for an elegant presentation. Fresh berries, like raspberries or strawberries, can provide a vibrant contrast of flavor and color, adding a delightful tartness that perfectly balances the sweetness of the cake.

Storage and Variations

If you find yourself with leftover cake, it can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For extended freshness, you can refrigerate it for a week. To freeze the cake, slice it into individual portions, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw individual slices at room temperature when ready to enjoy, or microwave briefly for a warm treat.

Feel free to customize this recipe by experimenting with different add-ins. Swapping in crushed nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, will add texture, while using white chocolate chips or caramel bits can create a delightful twist. For a more tropical flavor, consider incorporating shredded coconut or a pinch of cinnamon to the batter for a unique flair that pairs wonderfully with the yogurt's tang.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use Greek yogurt instead of plain yogurt?

Yes, Greek yogurt works well in this recipe, but you may need to thin it with a little milk to achieve the right consistency.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, this cake freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with the cake?

This cake is delicious on its own, but you can enhance it with whipped cream, ice cream, or fresh berries for a delightful dessert.