Turkish Yogurt Cake Recipe (Yoğurtlu Kek)

This light, fluffy, and moist Turkish yogurt cake (Yoğurtlu Kek) is a classic in Turkish households. Made with simple pantry ingredients, it balances sweetness with the tanginess of yogurt, creating a tender texture. It’s perfect with Turkish tea or coffee and often enjoyed as a simple dessert or afternoon treat.

Ingredients

• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup plain yogurt (whole milk yogurt preferred)
• ½ cup vegetable oil (sunflower or canola)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a round or square cake pan.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs and sugar until pale and fluffy.
3. Add yogurt, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet ingredients until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Let cool before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.