Greek Yogurt Bread (Soft & Moist Loaf)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45–55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 1 loaf (10 slices)
Ingredients
- 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (245 g) plain Greek yogurt (full-fat or 2%)
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- ¼ cup (60 ml) vegetable oil or melted butter
- 2 tablespoons honey or granulated sugar (optional, for a slightly sweeter loaf)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, if making a sweet loaf)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and line an 8×4-inch or 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together:
- Flour
- Baking powder
- Baking soda
- Salt
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk until smooth:
- Greek yogurt
- Eggs
- Oil (or melted butter)
- Honey or sugar (if using)
- Vanilla (if using)
Step 4: Combine
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Do not overmix; a few small lumps are fine.
Step 5: Fill the Pan
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pan.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until:
- The top is golden brown.
- A toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- The internal temperature reaches about 200°F (93°C).
If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil during the last 10–15 minutes.
Step 7: Cool
- Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
- Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Optional Add-Ins
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary or thyme
- 2 teaspoons everything bagel seasoning
- ½ cup chopped olives
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes
- ½ cup blueberries (for a sweeter loaf)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon with ½ cup raisins
Tips for Success
- Use room-temperature ingredients for a smoother batter.
- Do not overmix, or the loaf may become dense.
- Measure flour by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off.
- Allow the bread to cool before slicing to help it hold its shape.
Approximate Nutrition Information (Per Slice)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Carbohydrates | 22 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugars | 2 g |
| Total Fat | 7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Cholesterol | 42 mg |
| Sodium | 210 mg |
| Potassium | 95 mg |
| Calcium | 70 mg |
| Iron | 1.2 mg |
Nutrition values are estimates and will vary depending on the exact ingredients used.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains:
- Wheat (gluten): All-purpose flour
- Milk (dairy): Greek yogurt
- Eggs
It does not contain:
- Peanuts
- Tree nuts
- Fish
- Shellfish
- Soy (unless present in optional add-ins)
To make it dairy-free, substitute a plain dairy-free yogurt. To make it gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
Q: Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
Yes, but regular yogurt contains more moisture. If using it, reduce the amount slightly or add a tablespoon or two of extra flour if the batter seems too thin.
Q: Can I make this bread gluten-free?
Yes. Use a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour blend that contains xanthan gum or a similar binder.
Q: Can I freeze it?
Yes. Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature.
Q: How should I store it?
Store in an airtight container:
- At room temperature: up to 2 days
- In the refrigerator: up to 5 days
Q: Why is my loaf dense?
Common causes include:
- Overmixing the batter
- Expired baking powder or baking soda
- Too much flour
- Underbaking
Q: Can I make muffins instead of a loaf?
Yes. Divide the batter among a lined muffin tin and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Q: Can I add cheese or herbs?
Absolutely. Cheddar, Parmesan, chives, rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, or everything bagel seasoning all make excellent savory variations.
Q: What can I serve with this bread?
It pairs well with:
- Butter or herb butter
- Jam or honey
- Cream cheese
- Soup or stew
- Scrambled eggs
- Avocado
- Smoked salmon
- Chicken salad
