This Cherry Yogurt Cake is a delightful blend of sweet dried cherries and fresh or frozen cherries, topped with a creamy yogurt mixture. Its moist, tender crumb, complemented by the tanginess of yogurt, makes it a perfect treat for any occasion. Simple to prepare and packed with cherry goodness, this cake will impress anyone who tries it!
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Ingredients:
- Cake Base:
- 3 eggs
- A pinch of salt
- 150 grams (4/5 cup) sugar
- 150 ml (3/4 cup) vegetable oil
- 150 ml (3/4 cup) milk
- 300 grams (2 cups) flour
- 15 grams (3 teaspoons) baking powder
- 100 grams (1/2 cup) dried cherries
- Topping:
- 1 egg
- 100 grams (5 tablespoons) yogurt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 50 grams fresh or frozen cherries
Directions:
- Prepare the Cake Batter:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F).
- In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt until frothy.
- Gradually add the sugar, continuing to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Mix in the vegetable oil and milk until well combined.
- Sift in the flour and baking powder, and fold gently into the wet ingredients until smooth.
- Stir in the dried cherries.
- Prepare the Topping:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 egg, yogurt, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.
- Gently fold in the fresh or frozen cherries.
- Bake the Cake:
- Pour the cake batter into a greased or lined baking pan.
- Spoon the yogurt and cherry mixture over the top, spreading it gently.
- Bake in the preheated oven at 180°C (360°F) for 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool, then decorate with powdered sugar before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for a perfect afternoon treat.
Cooking Tips:
- Soak dried cherries in warm water for 10 minutes to plump them up before adding to the batter.
- For a more intense cherry flavor, consider adding a few drops of almond extract to the batter.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Cherries: Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C.
- Yogurt: Adds calcium and protein, contributing to bone health.
Dietary Information:
- Contains: Gluten, dairy, and eggs.
- Lactose-Free Option: Can be adapted by using lactose-free yogurt.
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 270 kcal
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 12g
- Sugar: 20g
Storage:
- Cake: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- The combination of dried and fresh cherries offers a delightful contrast in texture and flavor.
- It’s an easy-to-make cake perfect for any occasion, from breakfast to dessert.
- The yogurt topping adds a creamy, tangy layer that complements the sweet cherries perfectly.
- The recipe is versatile and can be customized with different fruits or nuts.
Conclusion: Cherry Yogurt Cake is a wonderful dessert that beautifully balances sweetness and tanginess. With its moist crumb and rich cherry flavor, it’s a recipe that deserves a spot in your baking repertoire. Whether for a special occasion or a casual treat, this cake is sure to impress and satisfy.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried in the batter?
- Yes, fresh cherries can be used, but the texture will be slightly different, and the cake may be more moist.
- What if I don’t have cornstarch?
- You can substitute cornstarch with an equal amount of flour or arrowroot powder.
- Can I make this cake gluten-free?
- Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour.
- Is it necessary to soak the dried cherries?
- It’s optional, but soaking them will make the cherries juicier and prevent them from being too chewy.
- Can I use Greek yogurt instead of regular yogurt?
- Yes, Greek yogurt will work, but the topping may be thicker and slightly tangier.
- How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?
- Grease the pan well with butter or oil, and you can also line it with parchment paper.
- Can I freeze this cake?
- Yes, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Can I add nuts to the cake?
- Absolutely! Adding chopped almonds or walnuts would give a nice crunch.
- How can I make the cake less sweet?
- Reduce the amount of sugar in the batter and topping, or use a sugar substitute.
- What other fruits can I use in this recipe?
- Blueberries, raspberries, or even diced apples would work well as alternatives to cherries.