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This light and fluffy yogurt cloud cake has become my secret weapon for impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The cake literally lives up to its name, with a texture so airy it seems to float on your plate, while the yogurt adds just enough tang to balance the sweetness.
I first made this cake during a particularly hectic weekend when I needed something impressive but simple. The way it puffed up in the oven like a beautiful cloud had my family gathering around the oven window in anticipation. Now it's requested at nearly every family gathering.
- All Purpose Flour: provides the perfect structure while keeping the crumb delicate
- Baking Powder: creates that magnificent rise and airy texture
- Salt: enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness
- Eggs: add richness and help create that cloud like texture
- Yogurt: brings tangy moisture and creates an incredibly tender crumb
- Granulated Sugar: sweetens while helping create the perfect texture
- Vegetable Oil: keeps everything moist without weighing down the batter
- Vanilla Extract: adds depth and warmth to the flavor profile
- Fresh Lemon Zest: optional but adds a bright note that wakes up all the flavors
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven:
- Set your oven to 350°F and prepare your 8-inch cake pan with either butter or parchment. The right temperature is crucial for achieving that perfect rise without burning the edges. I always let my oven preheat fully for at least 15 minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- Combine flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl with a whisk. This aerates the dry ingredients and distributes the leavening evenly. Whisking rather than sifting saves time while still preventing lumps in your final cake.
- Whisk Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, combine eggs, yogurt, sugar, oil, and vanilla until smooth and fully incorporated. The mixture should be pale yellow and slightly thickened. This is where the magic starts. The yogurt will look a bit lumpy at first but keep whisking until smooth.
- Combine Wet and Dry:
- Pour dry ingredients into wet mixture gradually while stirring gently. Stop mixing as soon as no dry streaks remain. Overmixing activates gluten which creates a tough cake instead of a cloud. Some small lumps are actually good.
- Bake Until Golden:
- Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown. The cake will rise dramatically and pull slightly from the edges when done. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter.
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My absolute favorite way to serve this cake is barely warm with a dollop of lightly sweetened Greek yogurt and fresh summer berries. The contrast between the warm cake and cool topping creates a beautiful sensory experience that elevates this simple dessert to something truly special.
Perfect Storage
This yogurt cloud cake stays fresh at room temperature for two days when stored in an airtight container. The yogurt in the batter keeps it moist longer than traditional cakes. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week, though the texture is best within the first three days. Allow refrigerated cake to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
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Creative Variations
The beauty of this versatile cake lies in how easily it adapts to different flavors. For a citrus version, add the zest of an entire lemon or orange to the batter. For a sophisticated twist, fold in 1/2 cup fresh blueberries or raspberries just before baking. The berries will create pockets of jammy sweetness throughout the cake. I especially love making an almond version by replacing the vanilla with almond extract and sprinkling sliced almonds on top before baking.
Making It Ahead
This cake actually benefits from being made a day ahead, as the flavors meld and develop overnight. The texture remains perfectly moist thanks to the yogurt in the batter. If preparing for a special occasion, bake the cake the day before, then freshen it up with toppings just before serving. This makes it perfect for entertaining when you want to minimize day-of preparation.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What makes this cake so light and fluffy?
The combination of yogurt, eggs, and baking powder creates an airy, tender crumb, while careful mixing avoids overworking the batter.
- → Can I use a dairy-free yogurt alternative?
Yes! A dairy-free yogurt alternative works just as well, keeping the cake soft and moist while accommodating dietary needs.
- → How can I enhance the cake's flavor?
Adding fresh lemon zest, vanilla extract, or even folding in berries or fruit pieces can elevate the cake's natural flavors.
- → What toppings go well with this cake?
Whipped cream, fresh berries, powdered sugar, or a drizzle of honey or chocolate sauce pair beautifully with this light dessert.
- → How should I store the cake?
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or refrigerate to keep it fresh longer.
- → Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, slice the cake, wrap each piece in plastic wrap, and store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw before serving.