This Light and Fluffy Yogurt-Sweet Cake is a simple yet elegant treat that comes together in minutes with just a few pantry staples. With a tender crumb, delicate sweetness, and the subtle tang of yogurt, it’s perfect for breakfast, tea time, or as a sweet snack any time of day.
Whether baked as a loaf or muffins, this cake delivers softness and flavor without any fuss—no mixer required!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- ✅ Effortless: Just whisk, fold, and bake—no creaming, no kneading.
- 🍰 Tender Texture: The yogurt gives it a moist, airy crumb every time.
- ⏱️ Quick & Reliable: Ready in under 45 minutes from start to finish.
- 🥣 Versatile: Works as a loaf, muffins, or mini cupcakes.
- 🍃 Customizable: Add-ins, toppings, and flavor variations welcome!
Ingredients (Makes 1 small loaf or 6–8 muffins):
- 175g (1⅓ cups) 00 flour (or all-purpose flour)
- 5 tablespoons plain yogurt (full-fat for best texture)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (sunflower or mild olive oil work well)
- 1 large egg , at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 sachet (≈8g) vanilla sugar , or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven & Prepare Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) .
Grease and line a small loaf pan (20×10 cm) or prepare a standard 6–8 cup muffin tin with paper liners.
Step 2: Whisk the Wet Ingredients
In a medium bowl, crack the egg . Add 2 tablespoons granulated sugar and the vanilla sugar (or extract).
Whisk vigorously for 1–2 minutes until light, frothy, and pale in color.
Step 3: Incorporate Yogurt & Oil
Add the yogurt and oil to the egg mixture. Gently whisk until fully combined and smooth.
Step 4: Sift in Dry Ingredients
Sift the flour and baking powder over the wet ingredients.
Using a spatula, gently fold everything together just until the batter is smooth and free of flour streaks. Do not overmix —this helps keep the cake light.
Step 5: Transfer & Smooth
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan or divide evenly among muffin cups.
Smooth the tops with a spatula for an even rise.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place in the center of the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes , or until golden on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool & Serve
Let the cake cool in the pan for 5 minutes , then transfer to a wire rack to cool another 5–10 minutes before slicing or unmolding muffins.
Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips for Success:
- Room Temperature Egg: Helps create a smooth, lump-free batter.
- Avoid Overmixing: Keeps the texture light and airy.
- Use Fresh Baking Powder: Ensures proper rising.
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Nutritional Information (per serving, makes 8 slices/muffins):
- Calories: ~180 kcal
- Protein: ~4g
- Carbohydrates: ~24g
- Dietary Fiber: ~1g
- Sugars: ~7g
- Total Fat: ~7g
- Saturated Fat: ~1g
- Sodium: ~150mg
Serving Suggestions:
- Dust with powdered sugar for a classic finish.
- Top with whipped cream and fresh berries.
- Pair with Greek yogurt or a dollop of honey.
- Drizzle with maple syrup or melted chocolate.
- Enjoy with coffee, tea, or herbal infusions.
Flavor Variations to Try:
- Citrus Burst: Add 1–2 teaspoons grated lemon or orange zest.
- Chocolate Swirl: Stir in 2 tablespoons cocoa powder or swirl melted chocolate on top before baking.
- Berry Delight: Fold in ½ cup fresh or frozen blueberries or raspberries.
- Spiced Version: Mix in 1 teaspoon cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg.
- Almond Joy: Substitute vanilla with almond extract and add chopped toasted almonds.
The Origins & Appeal of Yogurt Cakes:
Yogurt-based cakes have long been popular in European home kitchens, especially in Eastern Europe and Scandinavia, where dairy was abundant and baking techniques were rooted in simplicity. These cakes offered a way to make something rich and flavorful without butter or heavy creams. The addition of vanilla sugar is a nod to Central European traditions, where infused sugars are used to subtly flavor desserts.
Today, this kind of cake has global appeal due to its minimal ingredient list, flexibility, and ability to satisfy cravings for something sweet without being overly indulgent.
This Light and Fluffy Yogurt-Sweet Cake is proof that you don’t need complicated steps or rare ingredients to make something truly delicious. It’s a go-to recipe for busy mornings, unexpected guests, or whenever you want a comforting bite of homemade goodness.
So grab your whisk and let this easy, satisfying cake become a staple in your baking routine!
