This Greek yogurt cake is light, fluffy, and subtly sweet with a hint of lemon zest for extra brightness. It’s a simple yet delicious dessert or snack that can be enjoyed any time of the day. Made with wholesome ingredients like Greek yogurt and eggs, this cake is not only tasty but also nutritious.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 medium eggs
- 250g unsweetened plain Greek yogurt
- 100g sugar
- 40g cornstarch
- Pinch of salt
- Zest of 1 lemon
Directions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line an 8-inch (20 cm) round cake pan with parchment paper.
Step 2: Beat the Eggs and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together using a hand mixer or whisk until light, pale, and fluffy. This will take about 3-5 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Greek Yogurt and Lemon Zest
- Gently fold in the Greek yogurt and lemon zest using a spatula or whisk until well combined.
Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and pinch of salt. Gradually sift the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, folding gently to avoid deflating the batter.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the Greek yogurt cake with a dollop of whipped cream, fresh berries, or a drizzle of honey.
- Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon snack.
Cooking Tips:
- Do not overmix the batter after adding the dry ingredients to maintain a light, airy texture.
- Make sure the eggs are at room temperature for better volume and incorporation.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Greek yogurt is rich in protein and probiotics, promoting digestive health.
- Eggs provide high-quality protein, while the lemon zest adds a boost of vitamin C.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian-friendly.
- Can be made gluten-free by substituting cornstarch with a gluten-free flour blend.
Nutritional Facts (per slice, approx.):
- Calories: 180
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 7g
- Fat: 7g
- Sugar: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
Storage:
- Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigeration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature or warm before serving.
- Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Simple and Light: This cake is easy to make with minimal ingredients, and the result is a light and airy cake with a refreshing lemon flavor.
- Healthy: Made with Greek yogurt, it provides protein and probiotics, making it a better-for-you treat.
- Versatile: Enjoy it plain, or dress it up with berries, honey, or whipped cream for an extra special dessert.
Conclusion:
This Greek yogurt cake is a delightful, fluffy, and mildly sweet treat perfect for any time of the day. With a lovely hint of lemon and the richness of Greek yogurt, it’s a cake that’s both simple to prepare and delicious to eat. Enjoy it with your favorite toppings, and it’s sure to become a favorite in your home!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use flavored Greek yogurt?
Yes, but it’s recommended to use unsweetened yogurt to control the sweetness. If using flavored yogurt, reduce the amount of sugar. - Can I replace cornstarch with flour?
Yes, you can substitute cornstarch with an equal amount of all-purpose flour. - How do I make the cake gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of cornstarch for a gluten-free version of this cake. - Can I add other flavorings to this cake?
Yes, feel free to add vanilla extract, almond extract, or even a splash of orange juice for extra flavor. - Can I add fruit to the batter?
Yes, you can gently fold in berries or diced fruit such as blueberries, raspberries, or apples to the batter before baking. - Why did my cake not rise properly?
Make sure to beat the eggs and sugar well to incorporate air. Also, ensure your ingredients (especially eggs) are at room temperature for better volume. - How can I make the cake sweeter?
You can increase the sugar to 125g if you prefer a sweeter cake or drizzle the cake with honey after baking. - Can I use another citrus zest instead of lemon?
Yes, you can use orange or lime zest for a different citrus twist. - What type of cheese would go well as a topping?
For a savory twist, you could top this cake with a dollop of mascarpone or ricotta cheese, though this is traditionally a sweet cake. - Can I use low-fat Greek yogurt?
Yes, but using full-fat Greek yogurt adds creaminess and moisture to the cake. Low-fat yogurt will result in a slightly less rich texture.