Name: Light & Fluffy Yogurt Cloud Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-486506H40M30S
Total time: PT-486506H40M30S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup plain yogurt (preferably Greek yogurt); 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 4 large eggs, separated; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar (optional, helps stabilize egg whites); 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for whipped topping)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake is light as a cloud and bursting with flavor! The yogurt provides a gentle tang that balances beautifully with the sweetness of the cake, creating a dessert that's not overly rich but still satisfying. The fluffy texture makes it almost melt in your mouth, and the whipped cream topping adds a creamy finish. Plus, it’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion—whether it's a casual family dinner or a special celebration.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

1 cup plain yogurt (preferably Greek yogurt)
1 cup all-purpose flour
½ cup granulated sugar
4 large eggs, separated
¼ cup vegetable oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon cream of tartar (optional, helps stabilize egg whites)

For the Whipped Topping:

½ cup heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
Prepare the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the yogurt, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Add the egg yolks (reserving the whites for later) and sugar. Stir until smooth and well combined.
Sift the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to remove any lumps. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently to combine.
Whisk the Egg Whites: In a clean bowl, whisk the egg whites and cream of tartar (if using) until soft peaks form. Gradually add a tablespoon of sugar and continue whisking until stiff peaks form.
Fold the Egg Whites: Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the cake batter in two or three additions. Be careful not to deflate the batter to preserve the fluffiness of the cake.
Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the cake is golden brown on top.
Cool the Cake: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the Whipped Topping: In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
Serve: Once the cake has completely cooled, top it with the whipped cream and serve. Optionally, garnish with fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar for added flair.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8 slices
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 45-50 minutes

Variations

Lighter Cake: Swap in low-fat or non-fat yogurt for a lighter version of the cake without compromising on flavor.
Flavor Add-ins: Add lemon zest, vanilla bean seeds, or even a splash of almond extract for extra flavor in the cake batter.
Topping Options: Instead of whipped cream, try a dollop of mascarpone cheese or a drizzle of honey for added richness.
Berry Infusion: Serve with fresh berries or even fold them into the batter for an extra burst of flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover cake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to cover it tightly to keep it fresh.
Whipped Cream: The whipped cream can be made ahead and stored in the fridge. Re-whip it before serving to restore its fluffy texture.
Freezing: You can freeze the cake without the whipped topping for up to 2 months. Let the cake thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use flavored yogurt instead of plain yogurt?

You can use flavored yogurt, but keep in mind it may alter the sweetness and tang of the cake. If using a flavored yogurt, you might want to adjust the sugar levels accordingly.

2. Can I substitute vegetable oil with another type of oil?

Yes, you can substitute vegetable oil with olive oil, canola oil, or any other neutral oil. Just make sure it doesn't overpower the flavor of the cake.

3. How can I make this cake gluten-free?

To make this cake gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

4. Can I make this cake without the whipped topping?

Yes, the cake is delicious on its own, but the whipped topping adds a lovely creamy finish. Feel free to skip it if you prefer a lighter option.

5. How do I know when the cake is done baking?

You can check if the cake is done by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

6. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cake in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and add the whipped topping right before serving.

7. What other fruits can I use for garnish?

Fresh berries like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries are perfect for garnishing, but you could also use kiwi, peaches, or even a citrus zest.

8. Why do I need to fold the egg whites gently into the batter?

Folding gently ensures that you don't deflate the egg whites, which would result in a denser cake. This step is key to achieving the fluffy, cloud-like texture.

9. Can I substitute heavy cream for a lighter topping?

Yes, you can use whipped coconut cream or even a light whipped topping for a less rich alternative.

10. Is this cake suitable for a vegetarian diet?

Yes, this cake is vegetarian-friendly as it doesn't contain any animal-based products, aside from the eggs. It's perfect for most vegetarian diets.

Conclusion

The Light & Fluffy Yogurt Cloud Cake is a simple yet elegant dessert that’s sure to impress. Its delicate flavor and airy texture make it a standout choice for any occasion. With a few easy-to-follow steps, you'll have a light, melt-in-your-mouth treat that everyone will love. Whether you serve it with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream, this cake is guaranteed to be a hit!

Light & Fluffy Yogurt Cloud Cake