Name: Light & Fluffy Yogurt Cloud Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Japanese-Inspired
Ingredients: 4 large eggs, separated; 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (full fat or 2%); 1/4 cup milk; 1/4 cup cake flour; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1/4 cup sugar (for egg whites); 1/8 teaspoon cream of tartar (or a few drops of lemon juice); 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Delightfully light and fluffy texture
Uses simple ingredients you probably already have at home
Naturally sweet with a gentle tang from yogurt
No need for frosting—delicious as is
Great for breakfast, brunch, or dessert
Lower in fat than many traditional cakes
Aesthetic and elegant with minimal effort
Perfect for spring and summer gatherings
Kid-friendly and adult-approved
Can be made gluten-free with a few swaps

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Eggs
Plain Greek yogurt (or full-fat plain yogurt)
Granulated sugar
All-purpose flour
Cornstarch
Baking powder
Lemon juice (or white vinegar)
Vanilla extract
A pinch of salt

Directions

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line the bottom of a round cake pan with parchment paper. Do not grease the sides.
Separate the eggs, placing yolks in one bowl and whites in another.
In the bowl with yolks, whisk together yogurt, vanilla extract, and half of the sugar until smooth.
Sift in the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt. Mix until fully incorporated.
In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites with lemon juice or vinegar until foamy. Gradually add the remaining sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.
Gently fold the egg whites into the yolk mixture in three additions, being careful not to deflate the batter.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and tap it gently to remove air bubbles.
Place the pan in a larger baking dish and pour hot water into the outer pan to create a water bath.
Bake for 50–60 minutes or until the top is golden and the cake springs back when touched.
Turn off the oven and leave the cake inside with the door slightly open for 15 minutes.
Remove the cake and let it cool completely in the pan before removing.

Servings and timing

This cake yields 8 servings.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Bake time: 55 minutes
Cooling time: 1 hour
Total time: Approximately 2 hours 15 minutes

Variations

Citrus Twist: Add lemon or orange zest to the batter for a bright, zesty flavor.
Berry Swirl: Swirl in raspberry or blueberry puree before baking for a fruity touch.
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Matcha Version: Add 1 tablespoon of matcha powder for a Japanese-inspired twist.
Chocolate Cloud: Mix in a tablespoon of cocoa powder for a light chocolate flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To enjoy it warm, reheat individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds.
The cake also tastes great chilled, especially during warmer months.
Avoid freezing, as the delicate texture may not hold up well after thawing.

FAQs

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

The top should be golden, and the cake should spring back lightly when touched. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.

Can I use flavored yogurt?

Plain yogurt is best to maintain the light texture and balanced flavor. Flavored yogurt may alter the sweetness and consistency.

Do I need to use a water bath?

Yes, the water bath helps prevent cracking and ensures the cake bakes evenly and stays moist.

Why did my cake deflate after baking?

This can happen if the egg whites are over- or under-whipped, or if the cake is cooled too quickly. Always cool gradually.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, it can be made a day in advance. Store it in the fridge and bring to room temperature before serving if desired.

What size cake pan should I use?

An 8-inch round cake pan with tall sides works best for this recipe.

Can I substitute the cornstarch?

Cornstarch helps create the fluffy texture. If needed, you can use potato starch or tapioca starch as a substitute.

Is this cake suitable for people watching their sugar intake?

It’s moderately sweet. You can reduce the sugar slightly, but too little may affect the texture.

Can I add frosting?

This cake is designed to be served plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar, but a light whipped cream or yogurt glaze can complement it well.

What’s the best way to serve this cake?

Serve it chilled or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with fresh fruit or a cup of tea.

Conclusion

The Light & Fluffy Yogurt Cloud Cake is a delightfully airy dessert that balances flavor, texture, and elegance in every slice. With its simple ingredients and stunning results, it’s sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Whether you’re serving it for brunch, a dinner party, or a quiet moment of indulgence, this cake will leave a lasting impression.