Ingredients You’ll Need 📝
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- Zest of 2 fresh lemons
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing Your Workspace
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. Having everything ready before you begin mixing ensures a smooth baking process.
Mixing the Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until the mixture becomes light and slightly fluffy—this should take about 2 minutes. Add the vegetable oil and yogurt, mixing until well combined.
Next, stir in the lemon zest and fresh lemon juice. This is where the magic happens! The fresh citrus brings that incredible brightness that makes this cake so special.
Adding the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix—a few small lumps are perfectly fine and will ensure your cake stays tender.
Baking to Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Slide it into the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
The best part? While it’s baking, your kitchen will fill with the most amazing lemony aroma! ✨
Tips for the Perfect Lemon Cake
Use Fresh Lemons
Bottled lemon juice simply can’t compete with fresh lemons. The natural oils in the zest add depth and complexity that make this cake truly exceptional.
Don’t Skip the Yogurt
The yogurt is crucial for keeping the cake incredibly moist. It also adds a subtle tanginess that complements the lemon beautifully. You can use Greek yogurt or regular plain yogurt—both work wonderfully.
Room Temperature Ingredients
For the smoothest batter, make sure your eggs and yogurt are at room temperature. This helps everything blend together more easily and creates a better texture.
Serving Suggestions 🍰
Once your cake has cooled slightly, dust it generously with powdered sugar for that classic bakery appearance. The cake in the image shows this beautiful finishing touch that makes it look absolutely professional.
This lemon cake is incredibly versatile. Enjoy it as an afternoon snack with tea or coffee, serve it as a light dessert after dinner, or pack slices in lunchboxes for a special treat. It stays fresh for up to three days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
