Chocolate Yogurt Loaf Cake

Name: Chocolate Yogurt Loaf Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup plain yogurt; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Highlighted under: Sweet Indulgence

I absolutely adore baking, and this Chocolate Yogurt Loaf Cake has quickly become one of my favorites. The combination of creamy yogurt and rich chocolate creates an irresistible moistness that’s perfect to pair with a cup of tea or coffee. I love how simple the recipe is while still delivering such a deliciously sophisticated result. Whether I'm serving it at a gathering or enjoying a slice on a quiet afternoon, this cake brings a sense of comfort to every occasion.

Created by

Bethany Clarke

Last updated on 2026-02-08T05:44:37.144Z

When I first tried making a loaf cake using yogurt, I was amazed at how it transformed the texture. The yogurt not only keeps the cake moist but also adds a subtle tang that perfectly balances the sweetness of the chocolate. I recommend using good-quality cocoa powder for the deepest flavor; it makes a world of difference!

One of my favorite moments is when I slice into the loaf and see that dark, luscious interior. I often enjoy it warm, perhaps with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Trust me, this cake is bound to impress anyone lucky enough to try a slice!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

The Role of Yogurt in Baking

One of the standout ingredients in this Chocolate Yogurt Loaf Cake is the yogurt itself. Not only does yogurt add a unique creaminess to the batter, but it also contributes to the cake's overall moistness, making each slice wonderfully tender. The acidity in the yogurt reacts with the baking soda to create a lighter texture, helping to lift the cake without the need for too many eggs or additional leavening agents. This means you'll end up with a loaf that's rich but not overly dense.

If you're looking for substitutions, Greek yogurt can work beautifully in this recipe as well. It will yield a slightly thicker batter, which can enhance the cake's texture even further. Just remember to keep the overall moisture content in mind: if you use a thicker yogurt, you might want to slightly reduce the amount of flour or add a bit more oil to maintain that tender crumb.

Perfecting the Bake

Baking times can vary based on your oven, so it's crucial to keep an eye on your cake as it nears the end of its baking time. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it. If you notice the top browning too quickly, consider covering the cake loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while the inside continues to bake. Remember, underbaking slightly can keep your loaf moist, but aim for that perfectly baked center for the best texture.

After removing the cake from the oven, allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This cooling time is essential to help the cake set up and makes transferring it to a wire rack easier. If you try to slice too soon, you risk the loaf crumbling and losing that appealing structure.

Ingredients

Cake Ingredients

1 cup plain yogurt
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray and set aside.

Mix wet ingredients

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

Combine dry ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure there are no lumps in the dry ingredients.

Combine wet and dry ingredients

Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture a little at a time. Stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are fine.

Add chocolate chips

If using, fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed through the batter.

Bake the cake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and serve

Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding orange zest to the batter for a delightful citrus twist. This cake also freezes well
just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before storing it in the freezer.

Serving Suggestions

This Chocolate Yogurt Loaf Cake makes a delightful treat with a cup of coffee or tea. For a special touch, consider dusting the top with powdered sugar before serving or drizzling it with a simple chocolate glaze made of melted chocolate and a bit of cream. If you're feeling adventurous, pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream can elevate the enjoyment to another level – the warm cake and cold ice cream create a delicious contrast.

You can also experiment with add-ins and toppings. For instance, adding a handful of chopped walnuts or hazelnuts can introduce a pleasing textural element and nutty flavor. Alternatively, serve each slice with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream to brighten the chocolate richness.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

To keep your Chocolate Yogurt Loaf Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It can keep well for up to three days. If you’d like to enjoy it later, I recommend freezing the cake. It freezes excellently if wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, allowing it to last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.

If you're short on time, you can bake the cake a day ahead of an event. This not only gives the flavors time to meld, making it even more delectable, but it also allows you to focus on other preparations for your gathering. Just remember to store it properly to maintain its moist texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the yogurt?

Yes, you can use Greek yogurt or sour cream as a substitute for plain yogurt.

→ 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 use whole wheat flour?

Absolutely! Just be aware that it may change the texture slightly, making it denser.

→ What should I serve with it?

This loaf cake is delightful on its own, but pairs wonderfully with whipped cream, ice cream, or fresh berries.