This sweetened yogurt cake is a light and refreshing dessert that offers a delicate texture and a subtle sweetness. Made with just a few simple ingredients, it’s perfect for those looking for a quick and easy dessert to prepare. The sweetness of the yogurt pairs perfectly with the fluffiness of the eggs and the smooth consistency of the cornstarch, resulting in a cake that’s soft, airy, and slightly tangy from the yogurt. Whether served on its own or with fresh fruit, this yogurt cake will surely become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
- Total Time: 50-60 minutes
- Servings: 8-10 slices
Ingredients
- 400 g sweetened yogurt (~1 2/3 cup)
- 4 eggs
- 40 g cornstarch (~4 tablespoons)
- 16 cm (6.2 inch) round baking pan
- Parchment paper
Directions
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Prepare the Pan:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line the bottom of a 16 cm (6.2 inch) round baking pan with parchment paper. This will help the cake come out easily once it’s baked. Make sure to grease the sides of the pan lightly with butter or oil to prevent sticking. -
Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the 400 g of sweetened yogurt and the 4 eggs. Beat until smooth and well combined. You can use an electric mixer or a whisk. The mixture should be creamy and slightly fluffy. -
Add the Cornstarch:
Gradually add the 40 g of cornstarch into the yogurt-egg mixture. Whisk constantly to ensure there are no lumps. The cornstarch will help thicken the batter and give the cake a light, airy texture. -
Pour the Batter into the Pan:
Pour the batter into the prepared round baking pan. Tap the pan gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles and ensure the batter is evenly spread. -
Bake the Cake:
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Depending on your oven, the baking time may vary, so keep an eye on it. The cake should rise slightly and firm up around the edges. -
Cool and Serve:
Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice it into portions and serve. You can enjoy it plain or add toppings like fresh berries, whipped cream, or a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness.
Nutritional Facts (per slice, approximately)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Sugar: 15g
The Origins and Popularity of Sweetened Yogurt Cake
Sweetened yogurt cake has become a popular dessert in many countries around the world, particularly in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines. Yogurt-based cakes have been around for centuries, as yogurt itself is a staple ingredient in many traditional desserts. The versatility of yogurt allows it to add moisture, tenderness, and a slight tanginess to cakes, making it a favorite ingredient for bakers.
In the Mediterranean region, yogurt cakes are often made as a lighter alternative to richer, more decadent cakes. The addition of cornstarch in this recipe creates a lighter, fluffier texture compared to denser cakes. Yogurt’s natural sweetness and slight acidity complement the other ingredients, resulting in a balanced flavor that’s not overly sweet. As the cake gained popularity, it spread to other regions, and variations began to emerge, with different types of yogurt and additional flavors like lemon, vanilla, or fruit incorporated into the batter.
Today, sweetened yogurt cakes are beloved for their simplicity and delicious flavor. They have become a staple in many home kitchens because of how easy they are to make and how they can be customized with different toppings or flavorings. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, dessert, or as a snack with tea, this yogurt cake has become a go-to treat for many.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This sweetened yogurt cake is loved by many for its simplicity and delightful texture. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a cake that is light, fluffy, and subtly sweet. The yogurt not only adds flavor but also contributes to a moist and tender crumb, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re a beginner baker or an experienced one, this recipe is straightforward and foolproof. It’s also a great option for anyone who prefers lighter, less sugary desserts. The yogurt gives it a refreshing taste that pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit or a cup of tea.
Health Benefits of Sweetened Yogurt Cake
While this cake is indulgent, it also offers some health benefits, primarily thanks to the yogurt. Yogurt is an excellent source of calcium, protein, and probiotics, which are good for digestive health. Probiotics support the balance of good bacteria in the gut, helping with digestion and improving immune function. Yogurt is also rich in B vitamins, including B12, which is essential for nerve health and energy production.
Additionally, this recipe is relatively low in fat compared to many other cakes. The use of yogurt in place of heavy creams or butter helps to reduce the overall fat content while still keeping the cake moist and flavorful. The cake is also high in protein, which can help you feel full and satisfied. While it’s important to enjoy desserts in moderation, this yogurt cake offers a lighter alternative that still delivers on taste and texture.
Serving Suggestions
This sweetened yogurt cake can be served in a variety of ways, depending on your preference. For a simple yet elegant presentation, dust the top with powdered sugar or serve with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries, such as strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries. The tangy flavor of the berries complements the light sweetness of the cake perfectly.
For a more indulgent treat, try drizzling the cake with honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness. It can also be paired with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack or light dessert. For a more festive twist, top the cake with toasted coconut flakes, chopped nuts, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon to enhance the flavor profile.
Tips
- Make sure to use room temperature eggs and yogurt for best results. This will help the batter mix more easily and create a smoother consistency.
- If you prefer a slightly denser cake, you can substitute half of the cornstarch with flour. However, the cornstarch helps give the cake a lighter texture, so be mindful of the balance.
- Let the cake cool completely before slicing to ensure clean cuts and prevent the cake from falling apart.
- For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the batter or a squeeze of lemon juice for a hint of citrus.
- This cake can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the fridge.
Variations to Try
- Lemon Yogurt Cake: Add the zest of one lemon to the batter for a bright, citrusy flavor that pairs beautifully with the yogurt.
- Berry Yogurt Cake: Fold fresh or frozen berries into the batter before baking for a fruity twist. Blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries are great choices.
- Chocolate Yogurt Cake: Stir in some cocoa powder or chocolate chips to the batter for a chocolatey version of this yogurt cake.
- Honey Yogurt Cake: Replace the sugar with honey for a natural sweetener. You can also drizzle honey on top before serving for added flavor.
Conclusion
This sweetened yogurt cake is a wonderful dessert that’s easy to make and delicious to eat. The combination of yogurt and cornstarch creates a light, moist cake that is perfectly sweet and just the right amount of indulgent. Whether you enjoy it plain or with your favorite toppings, this cake is sure to become a staple in your dessert repertoire. With its versatility and simple ingredients, it’s a dessert that you can make on a whim or serve at special occasions. It’s a recipe that everyone will love, and it’s bound to impress your family and friends.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use plain yogurt instead of sweetened yogurt? Yes, you can use plain yogurt. However, you may want to add a little more sugar to the batter if you prefer a sweeter taste.
2. Can I make this cake gluten-free? Yes, you can substitute the cornstarch with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour. The texture may vary slightly, but it should still work well.
3. How long will the cake last? The cake will stay fresh for 2-3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.
4. Can I make this cake ahead of time? Yes, this cake can be made a day ahead of time. It keeps well and actually tastes even better the next day.
5. Can I freeze this cake? Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 1 month. Let it thaw at room temperature before serving.