Greek Yogurt Apple Cake

Greek Yogurt Apple Cake

ByEleni
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Greek Yogurt Apple Cake is a light, wholesome dessert inspired by my Mediterranean roots and American kitchen. It’s made with real apples, creamy Greek yogurt, and no refined sugar—just simple, nourishing ingredients. This cake fits beautifully into a healthy lifestyle.

I created this Greek Yogurt Apple Cake as a lighter treat for my family—something satisfying but good for us too. It’s naturally friendly for vegetarian, pescatarian, and flexitarian diets. With every slice, you get comfort without the guilt. Perfect for anyone wanting a sweet moment that supports their wellness goals.

Table Of Contents

Why You Will Love This Greek Yogurt Apple Cake

What Makes This Dish So Satisfying

  • Lightly sweet, moist, and full of real apple flavor
  • Greek yogurt keeps it tender and protein-rich
  • Warm cinnamon adds comfort without heavy sugar
  • Just one bowl—simple and quick to prepare
  • Feels like dessert, fits into a healthy routine

Why It’s a Favorite in My Kitchen

  • Perfect for vegetarian, pescatarian, and flexitarian diets
  • No refined sugar—sweetened naturally with honey
  • Great for breakfast, snacks, or light dessert
  • Can be made gluten-free with easy swaps
  • Loved by both kids and grownups in my home

Ingredients for Greek Yogurt Apple Cake

Flat lay of Greek yogurt apple cake ingredients including apples, flour, sugar, eggs, cinnamon, and oil on a white wooden surface.
Ingredients for Greek Yogurt Apple Cake – wholesome and naturally sweet.
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt (plain, full-fat or 2%)
    Adds moisture and protein—skip fat-free for best results
  • 2 medium apples, peeled and grated
    I use Honeycrisp or Fuji for natural sweetness
  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
    Use gluten-free blend if needed—works just as well
  • 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
    Natural sweetener that pairs beautifully with apples
  • 2 large eggs
    For structure and richness—room temperature is ideal
  • 1/3 cup olive oil
    Classic Mediterranean fat that keeps it heart-healthy
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
    Adds cozy flavor—optional: a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom
  • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
    Lifts the cake gently for a tender crumb
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
    Reacts with yogurt to help it rise
  • Pinch of sea salt
    Balances sweetness and deepens flavor
  • Optional: 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or almonds
    Adds crunch and healthy fats—skip for nut-free
  • Optional: powdered sugar or extra cinnamon for topping
    A light dusting for a pretty finish

How to Choose the Best Ingredients for Greek Yogurt Apple Cake

Fresh, Simple Ingredients Make It Shine

  • Choose firm, sweet apples—avoid ones that feel soft or mealy
  • Use full-fat or 2% Greek yogurt for the best texture
  • Freshly cracked eggs give better lift and flavor
  • Pick cinnamon with a strong, sweet aroma
  • Good olive oil adds richness—don’t use vegetable oil
  • Use fresh baking powder—check it’s not expired
  • Raw honey or pure maple syrup bring natural depth

Smart Swaps and Tips

  • Swap flour with oat or almond flour for gluten-free version
  • Use mashed banana instead of honey for no-added-sugar version
  • Applesauce can replace half the oil if you want even lighter
  • Add grated zucchini or carrot for extra fiber and moisture
  • Use dairy-free yogurt to make it lactose-free

How to Make Greek Yogurt Apple Cake

Step-by-step collage showing the making of Greek yogurt apple cake: mixing ingredients, folding in chopped apples, and the final baked cake.
Step-by-step process of making Greek Yogurt Apple Cake – from batter to beautiful bake.
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a round 8-inch pan.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk eggs, yogurt, honey, and olive oil.
  3. Stir in grated apples and mix gently.
  4. Add flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
  5. Fold the batter until just combined—don’t overmix.
  6. Pour into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
  7. Bake for 35–40 minutes, until golden and set in the center.
  8. Cool slightly, dust with cinnamon or powdered sugar, and serve.

Serving Suggestions for Greek Yogurt Apple Cake

How I Love to Serve It

  • Warm with a dollop of thick Greek yogurt
  • With a drizzle of honey and toasted nuts
  • Sliced with coffee or herbal tea in the afternoon
  • Lightly chilled with fresh berries on the side
  • On a rustic wooden board for a cozy brunch table

Perfect for Sharing

  • A healthier dessert for potlucks or picnics
  • Great for brunch with friends or family
  • Lovely as a host gift—wrap in parchment
  • Perfect post-dinner treat that won’t feel heavy
  • Kid-friendly and adult-approved for any gathering

Mistakes to Avoid When Making Greek Yogurt Apple Cake

Common Prep Mistakes

  • Don’t skip peeling the apples—it affects texture
  • Avoid using cold eggs—they won’t blend smoothly
  • Don’t overmix the batter—it can turn dense
  • Avoid underbaking—the center should spring back
  • Don’t use flavored yogurt—it adds too much sweetness

Flavor and Texture Mistakes

  • Don’t forget the salt—it enhances every flavor
  • Avoid too little oil—cake may turn dry
  • Don’t skimp on cinnamon—it brings warmth and depth
  • Avoid watery apples—they make the cake soggy
  • Don’t overload with nuts—they overpower the delicate crumb

How to Store Greek Yogurt Apple Cake

Refrigerating Greek Yogurt Apple Cake

  • Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
  • Keep in the fridge to maintain moisture and freshness
  • Reheat slices gently in the microwave for 10–15 seconds
  • Best texture when served slightly warm or room temperature

Freezing Greek Yogurt Apple Cake

  • Can be frozen up to 2 months—wrap slices individually
  • Thaw overnight in the fridge or briefly at room temperature
  • Avoid freezing with toppings—add cinnamon or sugar after thawing
  • Great for meal prep—freeze in portioned slices

Health Benefits of Greek Yogurt Apple Cake

  • Greek yogurt adds protein to support fullness and muscle health
  • Apples bring fiber for digestion and natural sweetness
  • Sweetened with honey or maple syrup—no refined sugar
  • Olive oil provides heart-healthy fats, Mediterranean-style
  • Naturally fits vegetarian, pescatarian, and flexitarian diets
  • Easy to make gluten-free and low-sugar with simple swaps
  • Light and nourishing—great for balanced eating or weight loss

If you enjoyed this Greek Yogurt Apple Cake, here are a few more comforting, creative treats from my kitchen:

Let me know if you’d like one more link added, or if you’d like the titles optimized for SEO too!

Greek Yogurt Apple Cake

Greek Yogurt Apple Cake
A light, naturally sweetened cake made with creamy Greek yogurt and fresh apples. Perfect for a healthy dessert, snack, or breakfast. Friendly for vegetarian, pescatarian, and flexitarian diets—moist, comforting, and protein-rich.

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Box grater
  • 8-inch round cake pan
  • Oven
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Greek yogurt plain, full-fat or 2%
  • 2 medium apples peeled and grated
  • 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour or gluten-free blend
  • ½ cup honey or maple syrup
  • 2 large eggs
  • ⅓ cup olive oil
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 ½ tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • Pinch of sea salt
  • Optional: ¼ cup chopped walnuts or almonds
  • Optional: Powdered sugar or cinnamon for topping

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch round cake pan.
  • In a bowl, whisk yogurt, eggs, olive oil, and honey until smooth.
  • Fold in the grated apples.
  • Add flour, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir until just combined.
  • Pour batter into the pan and smooth the top.
  • Bake for 35–40 minutes, until golden and set in the center.
  • Cool slightly before slicing. Dust with cinnamon or sugar if desired.

Notes

Use firm, sweet apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji
For gluten-free, use a 1:1 flour alternative
Add walnuts for crunch or skip for nut-free
Serve with Greek yogurt, fresh fruit, or tea
Store in fridge up to 4 days or freeze slices for later

Light, Comforting, and Full of Goodness

Greek Yogurt Apple Cake is my go-to for a lighter dessert that still feels comforting and homemade. With every slice, you get the warmth of cinnamon, the softness of apples, and the creamy richness of yogurt—without any heaviness. It’s a cake I feel good sharing, whether with family at brunch or just with myself and a quiet cup of tea. I love that it fits right into a health-conscious kitchen while still delivering that cozy, satisfying bite.

FAQs

  • What does Greek yogurt replace in cake mix?

    Greek yogurt can replace oil, butter, or sour cream in cake recipes. It adds moisture and protein with fewer calories.

  • Is sour cream or Greek yogurt better for baking?

    Greek yogurt is lighter and higher in protein, while sour cream adds more richness. Both work well—Greek yogurt is healthier.

  • How much yogurt to add to cake mix?

    Use 1/2 cup of Greek yogurt to replace 1/2 cup of oil, butter, or sour cream in most cake recipes.

  • Is yogurt better than milk in cake?

    Yes, yogurt makes cakes moister and tangier than milk. It also adds structure and protein, especially Greek yogurt.

  • What is the best yogurt for baking?

    Plain Greek yogurt (2% or full-fat) is ideal. It’s thick, creamy, and adds moisture without watering down the batter.

  • How to eat Greek yogurt for weight loss?

    Pair it with fruit, nuts, or honey, or bake it into healthy snacks like this cake. Choose plain, unsweetened varieties.

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