Yogurt Cake

Looking for a light, easy-to-make dessert that’s not too sweet? Yogurt cake might be exactly what you need. This simple, yet incredibly moist and flavorful cake has its origins in France, where it’s often called gâteau au yaourt. Made with yogurt as a key ingredient, this cake stays soft for days and can be customized with various flavors, toppings, or add-ins. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or just want a delicious treat to enjoy throughout the week, yogurt cake is a must-try.

One of the reasons why yogurt cake has gained popularity is its flexibility. It requires basic ingredients, is easy to whip up, and can be adjusted to suit your preferences. You can try a fruity twist by adding berries, similar to how you might enjoy a refreshing Lemon Crinkle Cookies recipe. For more variations, check out this lemon berry yogurt cake recipe, which adds a vibrant fruity element to the cake.

What Is Yogurt Cake?

Yogurt cake is a simple, moist cake made primarily from yogurt, flour, eggs, sugar, and oil. Unlike other cakes that rely on butter or milk, the yogurt gives this cake its tender crumb and slightly tangy flavor. It’s a favorite in France, where it’s often the first cake children learn to bake due to its simplicity. Whether enjoyed plain or dressed up with toppings like fresh fruit or a lemon glaze, it’s an incredibly versatile dessert.

This cake is ideal for any occasion, from breakfast to dessert. If you prefer a more indulgent version, consider pairing it with a creamy topping, similar to how a Lemon Cream Cheese frosting adds richness to any dessert. You can find more about this pairing in the Lemon Cream Cheese recipe.

The Classic Yogurt Cake Recipe

Here’s a step-by-step guide to making a classic yogurt cake:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of plain yogurt (Greek or whole milk)
• 2 large eggs
• 3/4 cup of sugar
• 1/2 cup of vegetable or olive oil
• 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons of baking powder
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round pan or loaf pan.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the yogurt, eggs, sugar, oil, and vanilla until well combined.
3. Add Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
4. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 40–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
5. Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack. Serve plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with fresh fruits.

This basic recipe can be easily adapted, similar to how you might explore variations of other classic cakes like Chocolate Chip Cupcakes, where small additions can enhance flavor and texture.

Why Use Yogurt in Cake?

Yogurt is the key ingredient that makes yogurt cake so moist and flavorful. Here are some reasons why yogurt is so beneficial in baking:

• Moisture: Yogurt adds moisture to the cake without needing a lot of oil or butter, resulting in a light but tender crumb.
• Tangy Flavor: It gives the cake a subtle tang that balances out the sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor.
• Healthier Option: Yogurt is a great way to add protein to your cake, and it’s lower in fat compared to using butter or heavy cream.

For an extra moist and rich version, using Greek yogurt works wonders. It adds more body and a slight creaminess to the cake, making it even more indulgent. You can check out a similar use of yogurt in a recipe like Coconut Cream Pie, where the balance of moisture and creaminess is key.

Popular Variations of Yogurt Cake

One of the best things about yogurt cake is how adaptable it is. Here are some popular variations you can try:

• Lemon Yogurt Cake: Add lemon zest and juice to the batter for a bright, citrusy flavor.
• Berry Yogurt Cake: Fold in blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries to add bursts of fruity sweetness.
• Chocolate Yogurt Cake: Mix cocoa powder into the batter and stir in chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
• Gluten-Free Yogurt Cake: Replace all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.

These variations allow you to customize the cake based on what you have on hand or your taste preferences.

How to Store and Serve Yogurt Cake

Yogurt cake stays fresh for several days, making it a great option for meal prep or casual snacking throughout the week.

• Storage: Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days.
• Freezing: If you want to save it for later, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Let it thaw at room temperature before serving.

To serve, you can dust the top with powdered sugar, drizzle with a lemon glaze, or serve with a side of whipped cream and fresh berries for an extra special touch.

FAQs About Yogurt Cake

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of plain yogurt in yogurt cake?

Yes, Greek yogurt works well in yogurt cake and adds a richer, creamier texture. Just be mindful that it may result in a slightly denser cake compared to using regular yogurt.

What type of oil is best for yogurt cake?

Vegetable oil is commonly used, but olive oil adds a unique flavor that pairs well with the tang of the yogurt.

Can I make yogurt cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious gluten-free version of yogurt cake.

Why did my yogurt cake sink in the middle?

A sinking cake is often due to overmixing the batter or opening the oven too early during baking. Make sure to follow the recipe carefully for best results.

How do I make a dairy-free version of yogurt cake?

To make a dairy-free version, simply swap the yogurt for a dairy-free alternative, such as almond or coconut yogurt.

Conclusion

Yogurt cake is a wonderfully simple and versatile dessert that offers endless possibilities. Its moist texture, subtle tang, and adaptability make it a favorite in many kitchens. Whether you prefer it plain, with a hint of citrus, or bursting with berries, there’s a yogurt cake variation out there for everyone. Try your hand at this easy recipe, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and add-ins!