Why You’ll Love Yogurt Cloud Cake Recipe

This dessert is light yet full of flavor, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer less dense cakes. The yogurt adds a subtle tang and moisture to the cake, creating a tender crumb. It’s versatile enough to be served as a midday snack or as a fancy dessert after dinner. The best part? It’s perfect for bakers of all levels, as the recipe is simple to follow, but the result is impressive and delicious.

Ingredients

To make this light and airy cake, you will need the following ingredients:

4 large egg whites
1 cup plain yogurt
1 cup all-purpose flour
¾ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 teaspoons baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
Zest of 1 lemon (optional)

These basic ingredients come together to form a soft, flavorful cake that is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Directions

Prepare the oven and pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Mix the dry ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Set this aside for later use.
Beat the egg whites
In a separate bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. This step is crucial for giving the cake its light and fluffy texture, so make sure the egg whites are properly whipped.
Combine the wet ingredients
Add the yogurt, vanilla extract, and lemon zest (if using) to the dry ingredients. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Fold in the egg whites
Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the yogurt mixture. Take care not to deflate the egg whites; the folding motion should be light and careful to preserve the airiness that will give the cake its fluffy texture.
Bake the cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
Cool the cake
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling process is essential for the cake to firm up and retain its fluffy texture.

Serving Suggestions

This cake can be served in a variety of ways, depending on your preferences. You can enjoy it plain, or if you prefer, dust it with powdered sugar for a light sweetness. Fresh berries, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of fruit syrup also make excellent toppings. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee, making it a versatile treat for any occasion.

Variations to Try

Gluten-free: If you need to make this cake gluten-free, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. The texture may be slightly different, but it will still be light and delicious.
Dairy-free: For a dairy-free option, substitute the yogurt with a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut or almond milk yogurt. This will give the cake a slightly different flavor but still maintain its lightness.
Citrus twist: If you prefer a zesty flavor, try using orange or lime zest in place of the lemon. This variation will give the cake a fresh, citrusy note.

Storage and Shelf Life

Yogurt Cloud Cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer to keep it fresh for longer, you can refrigerate it for up to 4 days. To extend its shelf life even further, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze them for up to 2 months. To enjoy, simply thaw the cake in the fridge overnight.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this cake so light and fluffy?
The key to this cake’s light texture is the whipped egg whites. When folded into the batter, they create air pockets that give the cake its signature cloud-like feel.

Can I use Greek yogurt?
Yes, Greek yogurt can be used in this recipe. It will add a slightly tangier flavor and create a denser texture, but it will still work well in the cake.

Do I need an electric mixer to beat the egg whites?
An electric mixer is ideal for beating egg whites, but if you don’t have one, you can beat the whites by hand with a whisk. Just be sure to put in a little extra elbow grease!

Can I add any toppings?
Yes! The cake is delicious on its own, but you can enhance the flavor with toppings like whipped cream, fresh berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Is this cake gluten-free?
Not as written, but you can easily make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour substitute.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare this cake a day or two in advance and store it in an airtight container. The flavors will develop even more over time.

Conclusion

Yogurt Cloud Cake is a simple yet elegant dessert that is sure to impress anyone who tries it. Its light and fluffy texture, combined with the subtle tang of yogurt, makes it a refreshing treat that is not too heavy. Whether you make it for a special occasion or enjoy it as a weekday snack, this cake is a versatile and delicious choice. With a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a dessert that is both satisfying and delightful.