Light & Fluffy Yogurt Cake

This hearty Light & Fluffy Yogurt Cloud Cake has become my secret weapon for impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The cake practically melts in your mouth with each bite, with yogurt adding just the right touch of tanginess to balance the sweetness.

I first made this cake for my mother's birthday when I was short on time but wanted something impressive. The look on her face when she took that first bite told me everything I needed to know this recipe would become a family treasure.

Ingredients

• All Purpose Flour: Provides structure and body to the cake while keeping it light and fluffy. Look for unbleached flour for the best flavor.
• Baking Powder: Helps the cake rise and gives it that delicate airy texture. Make sure yours is fresh for maximum lift.
• Salt: Balances out the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the cake. Fine sea salt works beautifully here.
• Eggs: They add richness and moisture while helping to provide structure. Room temperature eggs incorporate much better than cold ones.
• Yogurt: The star of the show! Yogurt brings a lovely tang and creaminess to the cake making it incredibly soft and moist. Full fat Greek yogurt creates the richest texture.
• Granulated Sugar: For just the right amount of sweetness without being overpowering. Superfine sugar dissolves more easily if you have it.
• Vegetable Oil: Adds moisture and keeps the cake tender. Choose a neutral oil like canola or sunflower.
• Vanilla Extract: A classic ingredient that enhances the overall flavor. Pure vanilla extract rather than imitation makes a noticeable difference.
• Fresh Lemon Zest: For a little zing and extra freshness that complements the yogurt and sweetness perfectly. Always zest before juicing for easiest results.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat Your Oven:

Turn your oven to 350°F and thoroughly grease an 8-inch round cake pan. I recommend also lining the bottom with parchment paper which makes removing the cake foolproof. The proper temperature ensures your cake rises evenly without burning.

Mix Dry Ingredients:

Combine the flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl using a whisk to ensure even distribution. This step prevents clumping and ensures the leavening agents are evenly dispersed throughout your batter, leading to uniform rising.

Whisk Wet Ingredients:

In a separate large bowl, thoroughly whisk together eggs, yogurt, sugar, oil, and vanilla until the mixture appears smooth and cohesive. This is where the magic happens the yogurt needs to be fully incorporated to create that characteristic cloud-like texture. Take your time with this step, about 1-2 minutes of whisking.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:

Gradually add your flour mixture to the wet ingredients, using a gentle folding motion rather than aggressive stirring. Stop the moment everything is just incorporated, even if you see a few small lumps. Overmixing activates gluten, which would make your cloud cake dense instead of airy.

Pour into the Pan:

Transfer your batter to the prepared pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly to the edges. Tap the pan gently on the counter two or three times to release any large air bubbles that might create holes in your finished cake.

Bake Until Golden:

Place the pan in the center rack of your preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The cake is done when the top turns golden brown and springs back when lightly touched. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve:

Allow the cake to rest in the pan for exactly 10 minutes this helps it set without becoming soggy from condensation. Then carefully invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely, about 1 hour. The cooling process is crucial for developing the perfect texture.

Pin it

The first time I served this cake at a family gathering, my grandmother who rarely compliments cooking asked for the recipe. She said it reminded her of a special cake from her childhood in Europe something so light it seemed impossible. That moment cemented this recipe as a treasure in our family cookbook.

The Secret To Perfect Texture

The magic of this cloud cake lies in two critical techniques. First, never overmix the batter once you add the flour. Second, proper baking temperature is essential. Your oven should be fully preheated before the cake goes in, as a fluctuating temperature can cause the cake to collapse. I learned through multiple attempts that patience during mixing and cooling creates that distinctive melt-in-your-mouth quality that makes this cake so special.

Pin it

Storage And Make-Ahead Tips

This yogurt cloud cake maintains its wonderful texture for up to three days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. If your kitchen runs warm, refrigeration works too just bring slices to room temperature before serving for the best mouth feel. For longer storage, individual slices freeze beautifully for up to two months. I often make this cake a day ahead of special occasions, as the flavor actually develops nicely overnight, with the tanginess of the yogurt becoming more pronounced and harmonious.

Flavor Variations

While the classic version is perfect on its own, this versatile cake welcomes creative adaptations. Fold in fresh berries for bursts of fruity flavor throughout. Try adding cardamom and orange zest for a sophisticated twist. Almond extract and a sprinkle of sliced almonds create a nutty variation that pairs beautifully with coffee. My personal favorite modification is adding a tablespoon of matcha powder to the dry ingredients for a subtle green tea flavor that complements the tangy yogurt beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

This cloud cake shines as both a casual everyday treat and an elegant dessert. For breakfast or afternoon tea, serve it plain or with a light dusting of powdered sugar. To elevate it for dinner parties, top warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and fresh berries. For a show-stopping presentation, split cooled cake horizontally and fill with lemon curd or whipped mascarpone. The light texture makes it perfect after a heavy meal when you want something sweet that won't feel overwhelming.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What makes this cake so light and fluffy?

The combination of yogurt, eggs, and baking powder creates an airy texture. The tang from the yogurt also adds moisture and softness.

→ Can I use a dairy-free yogurt substitute?

Yes, dairy-free yogurt works wonderfully and will still give the cake its signature tang and light texture.

→ What are some topping suggestions?

Fresh berries, a dollop of whipped cream, powdered sugar, or a drizzle of honey or chocolate sauce are perfect options to enhance the cake.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days, or refrigerate for a chilled treat. It also freezes well for up to 2 months.

→ Can I add fruit to the cake batter?

Absolutely! Fresh blueberries, chopped peaches, or raspberries can be folded into the batter for added flavor and texture.

→ Is this cake suitable for beginner bakers?

Yes, this cake is very simple to make with easy-to-follow steps, minimal ingredients, and no special equipment required.