Greek yogurt cake with vanilla is a light and creamy dessert that offers a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess. Made with the rich and thick texture of Greek yogurt, this cake is easy to prepare and ideal for those who appreciate a lighter, healthier alternative to traditional cakes. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it as a treat with coffee, this cake is a great option. The addition of vanilla essence gives it a sweet, aromatic flavor that complements the yogurt’s tang. Read on to discover how to make this delicious cake, complete with tips, FAQs, and serving suggestions.
Ingredients
- Sugar: 1 cup
- Vanilla Essence: 1 teaspoon
- Greek Yogurt: 5 individual cups (about 700g or 24 oz), natural flavor
- Cornstarch (optional): 3 tablespoons
Directions
Step 1: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla essence, and 5 cups of natural Greek yogurt. Use a whisk or an electric mixer to thoroughly combine these ingredients until there are no lumps in the mixture. The yogurt will provide moisture and a rich, creamy texture to the cake. If you want to achieve a thicker consistency, add 3 tablespoons of cornstarch to the mixture. Cornstarch helps the cake set better, giving it a firmer texture. Mix until everything is well combined.
Step 2: Prepare the Mold
Once the batter is ready, pour it into a 20 cm (8-inch) round mold, ensuring that the surface is smooth and even. You can lightly grease the mold with butter or cooking spray to prevent the cake from sticking. Make sure the batter is evenly distributed to ensure uniform baking.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the mold in the oven and bake the cake for approximately 50 minutes. The cake should turn golden brown on top and set in the middle. You can check if the cake is done by inserting a toothpick or skewer into the center; it should come out clean when the cake is ready.
Step 4: Cool and Serve
Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the mold for about 10-15 minutes before removing it. This will make it easier to take out of the mold without breaking it. After the cake has cooled slightly, you can slice it and serve. For the best texture and flavor, allow it to cool completely before serving.
Serving Suggestions
While the cake is delightful on its own, there are several ways to elevate its flavor and appearance:
- Honey: Drizzle the cake with a little honey for extra sweetness and a rich flavor.
- Fresh Fruits: Top the cake with fresh fruits like berries, sliced peaches, or sliced strawberries for a fruity twist.
- Powdered Sugar: Dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar for a decorative and sweet touch.
- Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for added indulgence.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve with a side of vanilla ice cream to add a cool contrast to the warm, soft cake.
Cooking Tips
Smooth Texture
If you prefer a smoother texture for your cake, you can strain the Greek yogurt for a few hours before using it. This will remove any excess liquid and give the cake a denser, creamier consistency.
Thorough Mixing
Ensure that the ingredients are mixed well to avoid any lumps in the batter. If you notice any lumps while mixing, continue to stir until the mixture becomes smooth.
Use a Springform Pan
For easier removal of the cake, consider using a springform pan. This type of pan has removable sides, making it simple to take out the cake without damaging it.
Watch for Browning
If the top of the cake starts to brown too quickly, you can cover it loosely with foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking to prevent over-browning while the cake continues to cook through.
Let It Cool
Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing to ensure clean and neat cuts. Cutting the cake while it’s still warm may cause it to crumble.
Nutritional Benefits
Greek yogurt provides numerous health benefits, making this cake a healthier dessert option:
- Greek Yogurt: Packed with protein, calcium, and probiotics, Greek yogurt supports gut health and provides essential nutrients for the body.
- Cornstarch: Adds structure to the cake, keeping it light and airy without adding unnecessary fat or calories.
Dietary Information
This Greek yogurt cake is naturally gluten-free when made with cornstarch instead of flour. It is also suitable for vegetarians, as it contains no meat products. For a dairy-free option, you can substitute the Greek yogurt with a dairy-free alternative such as coconut yogurt.
Nutritional Facts (per slice, based on 8 servings)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 8g
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 0g
Storage
To store any leftover cake, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3 days. If you’d like to store the cake for longer, you can freeze it for up to 1 month. To thaw, simply place the cake in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use flavored Greek yogurt instead of plain?
It’s best to use plain, natural Greek yogurt for this recipe. Flavored yogurts may add too much sweetness and alter the texture of the cake. However, if you prefer a hint of flavor, you can experiment with vanilla-flavored Greek yogurt.
2. Can I make this cake without cornstarch?
Yes, you can omit the cornstarch if you prefer a slightly softer texture. The cornstarch helps give the cake structure and firmness, but the cake will still turn out delicious without it.
3. Can I make this cake dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the Greek yogurt with a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut yogurt or almond milk yogurt. Ensure that the alternative you choose is thick and creamy to maintain the texture of the cake.
4. Can I add fruit to the batter?
Yes, you can add fruits like berries or sliced peaches directly into the batter for a fruity twist. Just be mindful not to overload the batter with too much fruit, as this may affect the texture and baking time.
5. How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the mold?
Grease the mold with a thin layer of butter or spray it with cooking spray before pouring in the batter. You can also line the bottom with parchment paper for easier removal.
Conclusion
Greek yogurt cake with vanilla is a simple yet delicious dessert that combines the rich creaminess of Greek yogurt with the sweetness of vanilla. It’s easy to prepare and offers a lighter, healthier alternative to traditional cakes. Whether you serve it plain, with honey, or topped with fresh fruit, this cake is sure to be a hit at any occasion. Its smooth, tender texture and subtle sweetness make it a perfect treat for anyone who loves light and creamy desserts. Enjoy!