The Mulberry Lemon Yogurt Cake is a delightful treat that combines the tangy brightness of lemon with the subtle sweetness of mulberries, all enveloped in a moist, yogurt-infused batter. This cake is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack throughout the day. Its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation make it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced bakers looking to create a delicious homemade dessert.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 8 ounces plain Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup vegetable or canola oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups mulberries (or blackberries/raspberries)
• For the glaze (optional):
  • 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 4 1/2” x 8 1/2” loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, mix together the sugar, Greek yogurt, oil, eggs, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until the batter comes together.
5. Carefully fold in the mulberries using a spatula.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
8. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack to cool completely.
9. For the glaze (optional): In a small bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cake.

Nutritional Facts (Approximate per serving)

• Calories: Approximately 250–300 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 35–40 g
• Sugars: 20–25 g
• Protein: 4–5 g
• Fat: 10–12 g
• Fiber: 1–2 g
• Sodium: 150–200 mg

Why Choose Mulberries?

Mulberries are the star fruit in this recipe, providing both visual appeal and delicious flavor. These small, juicy berries are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, making them a healthy addition to any dish. While mulberries are often underappreciated compared to more common fruits like strawberries or blueberries, they bring a unique depth of sweetness and a delicate, earthy flavor to the cake. Their slight tartness enhances the sweetness of the cake without overpowering the other ingredients, making them an ideal complement to the zesty lemon.

Mulberries are also rich in vitamin C, which is essential for immune function, skin health, and collagen production. In addition to vitamin C, they are an excellent source of vitamin K, iron, and potassium. These nutritional benefits make the Mulberry Lemon Yogurt Cake not only a delightful dessert but also a nourishing one.

If fresh mulberries are not available in your area, don’t worry! You can easily substitute them with other berries like blackberries, raspberries, or even blueberries. Each of these fruits will provide a slightly different flavor profile, but they all blend beautifully with the yogurt and lemon.

The Role of Greek Yogurt in the Cake

Greek yogurt is the key to achieving the soft, moist, and slightly tangy texture in this cake. Yogurt acts as a natural tenderizer, making the cake light and fluffy while adding a slight richness. Greek yogurt, in particular, is thicker and creamier than regular yogurt, which helps create a denser yet still tender crumb. It also balances out the tartness of the lemon and the sweetness of the berries, resulting in a flavor profile that is both refreshing and satisfying.

Greek yogurt is also packed with protein and probiotics, which can aid digestion and contribute to overall gut health. The probiotics found in Greek yogurt promote a healthy balance of bacteria in the digestive system, supporting immune function and even helping with weight management. So, not only does Greek yogurt make this cake delicious, but it also brings a healthful component to the dessert.

The Zest of Lemon: A Bright and Citrusy Twist

Lemon zest is one of the defining ingredients in this cake, infusing it with a fresh, citrusy aroma and flavor. The zest of a lemon contains essential oils that provide a vibrant, tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the mulberries and balances out the richness of the yogurt. The combination of lemon juice and zest in this cake adds a bright note, making it feel light and refreshing, perfect for a spring or summer dessert.

In addition to its bold flavor, lemon zest is also packed with antioxidants, which are beneficial for skin health and reducing inflammation. It has been used in traditional remedies for digestive health, and its natural oils have been known to have uplifting effects on mood. So, while lemon zest may seem like a small ingredient, its impact on both flavor and health is undeniable.

The Perfect Texture: How the Ingredients Work Together

The texture of the Mulberry Lemon Yogurt Cake is one of its standout features. Thanks to the combination of Greek yogurt, flour, and eggs, the cake achieves a balance of lightness and moisture that makes it incredibly satisfying without being too heavy. The yogurt helps to create a soft crumb, while the eggs provide structure to hold the cake together. The addition of oil ensures the cake stays moist for several days, allowing it to maintain its fresh, tender texture even after being stored.

As the cake bakes, the flavors meld together, creating a wonderfully cohesive dessert that doesn’t overwhelm the senses. The mulberries break down slightly during baking, infusing the batter with their natural sweetness while leaving visible pockets of juicy fruit throughout the cake. This not only adds flavor but also makes each slice visually appealing with flecks of purple throughout the golden cake.

Making the Cake Even More Special: Glaze Options

While the cake is delicious on its own, a simple lemon glaze can take it to the next level. The glaze adds a layer of sweetness and a glossy finish, making the cake even more visually striking. It’s also a great way to add a bit more lemony zing to the cake, amplifying the citrus flavor that defines this dessert.

To make the glaze, powdered sugar and lemon juice are whisked together until smooth, then drizzled over the cooled cake. This optional glaze enhances the overall flavor and provides a bit of extra sweetness that complements the tanginess of the yogurt and lemon zest. For those who prefer a less sweet version, the glaze can be left out entirely, and the cake will still shine with its natural flavors.

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with the Mulberry Lemon Yogurt Cake

The Mulberry Lemon Yogurt Cake is versatile and pairs well with a variety of beverages and foods. For a refreshing afternoon snack, it pairs beautifully with a cup of tea, such as Earl Grey, jasmine, or green tea, which enhance the citrus notes in the cake. If you’re serving it for dessert after a light meal, a glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water with a splash of lemon is an excellent choice.

For breakfast or brunch, this cake pairs well with yogurt and fresh fruit. The tangy yogurt complements the lemony flavor of the cake, while the fresh fruit can be a perfect side dish, enhancing the fruitiness of the cake. A side of scrambled eggs or smoked salmon could also balance out the sweetness of the cake for a more savory, satisfying brunch spread.

Making the Most of Leftovers

While it may be hard to save any slices of this delicious cake, if you happen to have leftovers, storing them properly will ensure they stay fresh. To keep the cake moist, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. The cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to preserve the cake for longer, it can also be frozen. Simply slice the cake and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place the slices in a freezer bag. To enjoy, just thaw the cake at room temperature or pop it in the microwave for a quick reheat.

Conclusion: Why You Should Try the Mulberry Lemon Yogurt Cake

The Mulberry Lemon Yogurt Cake is a perfect dessert for any occasion, offering a beautiful combination of flavors and textures that are sure to delight your guests. From the bright and tangy lemon zest to the sweetness of the mulberries and the richness of Greek yogurt, every bite of this cake feels like a celebration. Its simplicity and elegance make it suitable for casual gatherings or more formal events, and it pairs wonderfully with a variety of beverages and other foods.

Not only is this cake a treat for the taste buds, but it also provides some nutritional benefits thanks to the presence of Greek yogurt and mulberries. These ingredients not only add flavor but also contribute to the cake’s moistness, texture, and healthful properties. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this cake is a fun and rewarding project that will impress anyone who tastes it.