A delicate and airy dessert that melts in your mouth, made with Greek yogurt and a hint of lemon zest for a subtle tang.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Light and Airy: Perfectly soft with a cloud-like texture.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples like eggs, yogurt, and flour.
- Versatile: Great as a standalone dessert or paired with fresh fruits.
- Low-Calorie Treat: A lighter option for dessert lovers.
Ingredients
- 3 large eggs, separated
- 65g granulated sugar
- 250g Greek yogurt
- 30g all-purpose flour
- 10g cornstarch
- Zest of 1 lemon
- A few drops of lemon juice
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
Directions
- Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 320°F (160°C). Line the bottom and sides of a 6-inch (15 cm) round cake pan with parchment paper.
- Beat Egg Whites: In a clean, grease-free bowl, beat the egg whites with a few drops of lemon juice until foamy. Gradually add half the sugar (32g), beating until medium peaks form. Set aside.
- Mix Egg Yolks: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks with the remaining sugar until pale and creamy. Add the Greek yogurt and lemon zest, mixing until smooth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Sift the all-purpose flour and cornstarch into the yolk mixture. Stir gently until no lumps remain.
- Fold in Egg Whites: Carefully fold the beaten egg whites into the yolk mixture in three additions. Use a spatula and fold gently to avoid deflating the batter.
- Prepare for Baking: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top. Tap the pan lightly on the counter to release air bubbles.
- Water Bath: Place the cake pan inside a larger baking dish. Pour hot water into the larger dish to create a water bath, filling it to about 1 inch (2-3 cm) deep.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 50 minutes. Increase the temperature to 340°F (170°C) and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cake is set and lightly golden on top.
- Cool Gradually: Turn off the oven and leave the cake inside with the door slightly ajar for 10 minutes to prevent sudden temperature changes.
- Cool and Chill: Remove the cake from the oven and water bath. Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Serve: Before serving, dust the top with powdered sugar if desired. Slice and enjoy this light and fluffy yogurt cloud cake.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Servings: 6-8
Variations
- Citrus Twist: Use orange zest instead of lemon for a sweeter flavor.
- Berry Addition: Fold in fresh raspberries or blueberries before baking.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour and cornstarch.
- Chocolate Touch: Add a drizzle of melted dark chocolate before serving.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Refrigerate the cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap the cake in plastic wrap and foil before freezing for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
FAQs
1. Can I use plain yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
Yes, but Greek yogurt adds a creamier texture. If using plain yogurt, ensure it’s thick and strained.
2. Do I need a water bath for this recipe?
Yes, the water bath ensures even baking and prevents cracks.
3. Can I make this cake without lemon zest?
Lemon zest adds flavor, but you can skip it or replace it with vanilla extract.
4. What size pan should I use?
A 6-inch (15 cm) round cake pan works best for this recipe.
5. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but adjust the baking time accordingly and use a larger pan.
6. Why did my cake deflate?
Deflation can occur due to overmixing or sudden temperature changes. Cool the cake gradually to avoid this.
7. Can I add flavorings like vanilla or almond extract?
Yes, add 1/2 teaspoon of your preferred extract to the yolk mixture.
8. Is this cake suitable for diabetics?
You can use a sugar substitute to make it more diabetic-friendly.
9. How do I know when the cake is done?
The cake is done when it’s lightly golden and set in the center.
10. Can I top it with something besides powdered sugar?
Yes, try fresh fruits, whipped cream, or a light glaze for extra flair.
Conclusion
Light & Fluffy Yogurt Cloud Cake is a simple yet elegant dessert that combines creamy yogurt, zesty lemon, and a soft, airy texture. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a recipe that will impress with its delicate flavors and beautiful presentation. Enjoy it chilled with a dusting of powdered sugar or your favorite topping!
PrintLight & Fluffy Yogurt Cloud Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicate and airy dessert that melts in your mouth, made with Greek yogurt and a hint of lemon zest for a subtle tang.
Ingredients
- 3 large eggs, separated
- 65g granulated sugar
- 250g Greek yogurt
- 30g all-purpose flour
- 10g cornstarch
- Zest of 1 lemon
- A few drops of lemon juice
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 320°F (160°C). Line the bottom and sides of a 6-inch (15 cm) round cake pan with parchment paper.
- Beat Egg Whites: In a clean, grease-free bowl, beat the egg whites with a few drops of lemon juice until foamy. Gradually add half the sugar (32g), beating until medium peaks form. Set aside.
- Mix Egg Yolks: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks with the remaining sugar until pale and creamy. Add the Greek yogurt and lemon zest, mixing until smooth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Sift the all-purpose flour and cornstarch into the yolk mixture. Stir gently until no lumps remain.
- Fold in Egg Whites: Carefully fold the beaten egg whites into the yolk mixture in three additions. Use a spatula and fold gently to avoid deflating the batter.
- Prepare for Baking: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top. Tap the pan lightly on the counter to release air bubbles.
- Water Bath: Place the cake pan inside a larger baking dish. Pour hot water into the larger dish to create a water bath, filling it to about 1 inch (2-3 cm) deep.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 50 minutes. Increase the temperature to 340°F (170°C) and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cake is set and lightly golden on top.
- Cool Gradually: Turn off the oven and leave the cake inside with the door slightly ajar for 10 minutes to prevent sudden temperature changes.
- Cool and Chill: Remove the cake from the oven and water bath. Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Serve: Before serving, dust the top with powdered sugar if desired. Slice and enjoy this light and fluffy yogurt cloud cake.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European-inspired
Keywords: Fluffy Yogurt Cake