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with a Tender Crumb and Tangy Sweetness Recipe

with a Tender Crumb and Tangy Sweetness Recipe

4.8 from 17 reviews

This Springtime Rhubarb Yogurt Cake combines a tender, moist crumb with the tangy sweetness of fresh rhubarb. With layers of creamy Greek yogurt and tart rhubarb, accented by lemon zest and a slightly crunchy almond topping, this cake is a delightful celebration of spring flavors, perfect for dessert or afternoon tea.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cake Batter

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • Zest of 1 lemon

For the Rhubarb Layer

  • 2 cups rhubarb, chopped
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Optional Topping

  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon sliced almonds
  • Light dusting of powdered sugar

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line a cake pan to ensure the cake releases easily after baking.
  2. Prepare Rhubarb Mixture: In a bowl, toss the chopped rhubarb with granulated sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Set it aside to allow the rhubarb to macerate and the cornstarch to blend, which will help thicken during baking.
  3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and salt.
  4. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate large bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, incorporating air to help with the cake’s texture.
  5. Add Eggs and Flavorings: Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed butter mixture, beating well after each addition. Then mix in the vanilla extract, Greek yogurt, and lemon zest to add moisture and flavor complexity.
  6. Combine Batter: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients gently, mixing until just combined to avoid overworking the batter, which can make the cake dense.
  7. Layer Cake and Rhubarb: Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan, then evenly distribute half of the rhubarb mixture on top. Repeat the layering with the remaining batter and rhubarb.
  8. Add Topping: If using, sprinkle the brown sugar and sliced almonds evenly over the top layer for a crunchy, sweet finish.
  9. Bake the Cake: Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 50 minutes or until the cake is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  10. Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing. Optionally dust with powdered sugar before serving to add a delicate sweetness and attractive finish.

Notes

  • Use fresh rhubarb for the best tart flavor; frozen rhubarb can be used but may add extra moisture.
  • Greek yogurt helps keep the cake moist and adds a subtle tang; full-fat varieties work best.
  • If you prefer, substitute sliced almonds with chopped walnuts or pecans for a different nutty crunch.
  • Ensure the butter is softened but not melted for proper creaming.
  • The cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.

Nutrition

Keywords: Rhubarb cake, Spring dessert, Yogurt cake, Lemon zest cake, Layered cake with fruit