There’s just something so delightful about a cake that’s simple and incredibly moist. Yogurt cake has a special place in my heart because it reminds me of cozy afternoons spent with family, where the kitchen is filled with laughter and the sweet aroma of baking wafts through the air. I remember the first time I tried it; my grandmother baked one when I was visiting her, and I was instantly hooked! It was light, fluffy, and each bite melted in my mouth. This recipe not only brings back wonderful memories but it’s also so versatile — you can add fruits, zests, or even customize it with flavors you love.
What makes yogurt cake unique is that it uses yogurt as a key ingredient, which keeps the cake super moist without needing too much butter or oil. Plus, it’s so easy to make that even novice bakers can whip it up! So, let me share with you my favorite yogurt cake recipe, and trust me, your kitchen will smell heavenly!
What’s in Yogurt Cake?
Yogurt: The star of the show! You can use any flavor — plain, vanilla, or even Greek yogurt works perfectly. I usually opt for plain yogurt to control sweetness and then add my flavors later.
Granulated Sugar: Just the right amount to balance the tanginess of the yogurt. You can substitute it with honey or maple syrup if you’re looking for a natural sweetener.
Eggs: These little proteins provide structure and moisture to our cake. I recommend using large eggs for consistency.
All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of our cake! Pro tip: sift the flour before measuring to avoid any lumps and get a lighter texture.
Baking Powder: This is the magic ingredient that makes our cake rise and become fluffy! Make sure it’s fresh for the best results.
Salt: Just a pinch to enhance all the flavors; it’s amazing how much difference this little ingredient makes.
Oil: This keeps our cake moist and adds a slight richness. I love using canola oil or even melted coconut oil for a hint of extra flavor.
Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract adds that lovely sweet smell and flavor we all adore.
Is Yogurt Cake Good for You?
You might be wondering, is yogurt cake a healthier option? Well, let’s break it down:
Yogurt: The yogurt in this cake is fabulous! It adds protein and probiotics, which are great for digestion. Plus, if you choose Greek yogurt, you’re boosting that protein content even further.
Sugar: While it does have sugar for sweetness, you can easily cut back or switch to healthier alternatives like honey or a sugar substitute. Just remember: moderation is key!
Overall, this cake can fit into a balanced diet. It’s a lovely treat that can be enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee, just don’t eat the whole thing in one sitting!
Ingredients List
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp baking powder
– ½ tsp salt
– ½ cup oil (canola or melted coconut oil)
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
*Serves about 8-10 people.
How to Make Yogurt Cake?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan (or line it with parchment paper) for easy removal.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the yogurt and sugar. Whisk well until it’s smooth and creamy.
3. Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the mixture, and whisk until fully blended.
4. In another bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt together.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Don’t overmix — a few lumps are okay!
6. Finally, add the oil and mix until just incorporated.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
8. Bake for about 30-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for around 10 minutes, then gently remove it and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
Sweet Tips and Variations
– Feel free to add mix-ins! Fresh fruits like berries or lemon zest add a zingy twist and brighten the flavor.
– Drizzle a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and lemon juice on top for an extra touch. You can also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream — it’s that fancy!
– This cake freezes well; slice it up, wrap it tightly in plastic, and it will be perfect for when that sweet craving hits!
I really hope you give this yogurt cake a try. It’s a wonderful introduction to baking or a delightful addition to any gathering. Don’t forget to share your baking adventures with me! Happy baking!