Chocolate Yogurt Snack Cake

Name: Chocolate Yogurt Snack Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup plain yogurt; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Heavenly Confections

I love indulging in a rich dessert, and this Chocolate Yogurt Snack Cake has become a favorite in my home. The combination of yogurt and chocolate creates a deliciously moist cake that’s perfect for snack time. It's quick to whip up and satisfies that sweet tooth without being overly heavy. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe, so I can easily adjust it to include my favorite add-ins like nuts or fruit. This cake is a delightful way to treat myself and others throughout the week.

Created by

Aubrey Whitman

Last updated on 2026-02-10T23:33:37.983Z

When I first tried making this Chocolate Yogurt Snack Cake, I was amazed at how easy it was to achieve such a decadent flavor. Using yogurt not only gives the cake a moist texture, but it also adds a slight tang that beautifully complements the richness of the chocolate. I recommend using high-quality cocoa powder for the best flavor, as it really makes a difference.

One of my favorite tips while baking is to incorporate a bit of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor without making it taste like coffee. It really elevates the cake, and your guests will be pleasantly surprised by the depth of flavor. Trust me, this cake will have everyone going back for seconds!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

The Role of Yogurt

Yogurt is a crucial ingredient in this Chocolate Yogurt Snack Cake, not just for flavor but for texture as well. It adds moisture that keeps the cake tender and prevents it from becoming dry. The acidity in yogurt also helps to activate the baking soda, providing just the right amount of lift while contributing to the cake's delightful crumb. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, unsweetened almond yogurt can work as a substitute without compromising the cake's moisture.

Using plain yogurt is essential for maintaining the balance of flavors in the cake. Flavored yogurts can introduce unexpected sweetness or tartness that may alter the final taste. When you whisk the yogurt with the other wet ingredients, ensure it’s creamy and smooth to create a uniform batter. This step is key; a well-integrated mixture leads to an even rise in the oven, yielding a beautiful cake.

Chocolate Choices

The chocolate chips in this recipe not only enhance the chocolate flavor but also provide bursts of melty goodness throughout the cake. Using high-quality semi-sweet chocolate chips will give you a rich, sweet flavor without overpowering the other ingredients. If you're a dark chocolate lover, consider substituting with dark chocolate chips to heighten the intensity of each bite. Alternatively, you could use milk chocolate for a creamier taste.

Don't hesitate to experiment with different types of chocolate! Swapping out chocolate chips for chunks of your favorite chocolate bar can provide a more luxurious texture. For a fun twist, add in white chocolate chips or even peanut butter chips for a unique flavor profile. Just keep in mind that changes in chocolate type may affect the sweetness level of the cake, so adjust the sugar accordingly.

Baking and Storage Tips

Baking this cake at 350°F (175°C) is ideal for achieving a light, fluffy texture. Keep an eye on your cake as it nears the 30-minute mark; the edges should appear set and slightly golden while the center retains a soft jiggle. If you find the cake domes slightly, leveling off the top with a knife after cooling can help it stack better if you plan to layer it or frost it.

Once your cake has cooled, you can store it at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you'd like to prepare it ahead of time, this cake freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to protect it from freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, let it thaw overnight in the fridge and then bring it to room temperature before serving for optimal texture.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create this delightful cake:

Cake Ingredients

1 cup plain yogurt
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chocolate chips

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your cake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the yogurt, sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Add Chocolate Chips

Fold in the chocolate chips for added richness.

Bake

Pour the batter into the greased pan and bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Serve it warm or at room temperature.

Enjoy your delicious snack cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding a tablespoon of orange zest to the batter.

Serving Suggestions

This Chocolate Yogurt Snack Cake can be enjoyed on its own, but it’s also a fantastic base for a variety of toppings. A dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream can elevate the dessert for special occasions. For an even more decadent treat, consider serving slices warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside fresh berries for a vibrant contrast of flavors and textures.

If you wish to incorporate some fruit into the mix, consider adding chopped nuts or fresh raspberries before baking. Nuts like walnuts or pecans complement the chocolate beautifully, adding a delightful crunch that contrasts with the moist softness of the cake. If you’re using fruit, be aware that they can add moisture, which may require slight adjustments in baking time.

Customization and Variations

This recipe is easily customizable to suit various dietary preferences or flavor profiles. For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Be sure to check that your baking soda is gluten-free if you’re sensitive to gluten. Additionally, if you're looking to cut down on sugar, consider using a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup, though it may require balance with the wet ingredients.

Another variation includes infusing the recipe with spices. A teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne pepper can give your cake a warm and unique flavor. Pairing chocolate with a bit of spice creates an intriguing taste that will surprise and delight your taste buds. You could also swap orange zest with lemon zest for a different zing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use Greek yogurt instead of regular yogurt?

Yes, Greek yogurt works well and will give your cake an even denser texture.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ What can I add to enhance the flavor?

Consider adding nuts, dried fruit, or a dash of cinnamon to the batter for added texture and flavor.