How to Make Gâteau au Yaourt – A Simple French Yoghurt Cake Recipe

 

--- published by foodie Parmod.

Introduction

The Gâteau au Yaourt, or yoghurt cake, is one of France’s most beloved home bakes. Often the very first cake French children learn to make, it’s incredibly simple, forgiving, and delicious. Using yoghurt as the main ingredient, this moist and fluffy cake is perfect for everyday tea-time treats, lunchboxes, or even birthdays. In this blog post, we’ll guide you step-by-step on how to make the perfect Gâteau au Yaourt using British ingredients and measurements, with added tips to help you personalise it to your taste.

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Why Gâteau au Yaourt is So Popular

Unlike other cake recipes that require scales, this one uses the yoghurt pot as the main measuring unit, making it foolproof and fun to make with kids. It's quick to prepare, doesn’t need any fancy equipment, and produces a reliably soft and flavourful cake.

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Ingredients

(Makes 1 loaf or 20cm round cake)

1 pot (125g) plain yoghurt (use the pot to measure the remaining ingredients)

2 pots caster sugar

3 pots plain flour

½ pot vegetable oil (or sunflower oil)

2 medium eggs

1½ tsp baking powder

1 tsp vanilla extract

A pinch of salt

Optional: zest of 1 lemon or orange for added flavour

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Optional Add-ins

Handful of chocolate chips

Fresh berries

Swirl of jam

Ground almonds (replace ½ pot flour with ½ pot ground almonds)

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Method

1. Preheat your oven

Set your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) / 350°F / Gas Mark 4. Grease and line a 20cm round cake tin or a loaf tin with parchment paper.

2. Mix wet ingredients

Empty the yoghurt into a mixing bowl. Use the empty yoghurt pot to measure out the sugar and oil. Add both to the bowl along with the eggs and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.

3. Add dry ingredients

Using the same pot, measure the flour and add to the bowl with baking powder and a pinch of salt. Mix gently until just combined. Do not overmix.

4. Add flavours

At this stage, fold in citrus zest, chocolate chips, berries or any other add-ins you prefer. Keep it simple or make it indulgent!

5. Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared tin and level the top. Bake in the centre of the oven for 35–40 minutes, or until a skewer inserted in the middle comes out clean.

Tip: If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover with foil after 25 minutes.

6. Cool and serve

Let the cake cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature, dusted with icing sugar if desired.

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Serving Suggestions

Enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee.

Slice and serve with Greek yoghurt and honey.

Layer with jam and whipped cream for a more decadent dessert.

Toast a slice and top with butter or nut spread for breakfast.

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Storage Tips

This cake stays moist for several days and travels well.

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.

Freeze individual slices for up to 2 months.

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Why You’ll Love This Cake

Beginner-friendly: No scales needed!

Customisable: Add your favourite flavours.

Moist texture: Thanks to the yoghurt.

Quick & easy: Ready in under an hour.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use Greek yoghurt?

Yes! Greek yoghurt works well, though the cake may be slightly denser. You can thin it slightly with a splash of milk if desired.

Can I make this cake dairy-free?

Absolutely. Use a plant-based yoghurt like soy or almond, and check that the chocolate or other add-ins are dairy-free too.

Is this cake good for children?

Yes – it’s a great recipe for little hands to help with, especially since no scales are needed!

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Conclusion

The Gâteau au Yaourt is a timeless classic – effortless, versatile, and always satisfying. Whether you’re new to baking or just want a quick and tasty treat, this French yoghurt cake is sure to become a favourite. Try it plain, fruity, or chocolatey – and let us know how you customise yours in the comments below!

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Like this recipe?

Browse more French classics on our blog:

[How to Make Clafoutis aux Cerises]

[How to Make Tarte Tatin]

[How to Make Madeleines]

Don’t forget to tag your bakes with #GateauAuYaourtUK on social media – we’d love to see your creations!

--- write ✍️ by foodie Parmod.