Light & Fluffy Yogurt Cloud Cake is an airy, melt-in-your-mouth dessert that’s subtly sweet, wonderfully moist, and refreshingly tangy. Made with simple ingredients and no heavy frosting, this cake gets its lift from whipped egg whites and its tender crumb from creamy yogurt. It’s perfect as a teatime treat, a light finish to a meal, or a stunning addition to any brunch or celebration.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cake is a dream for those who love delicate, not-too-sweet desserts. Its soufflé-like texture makes it feel indulgent without being heavy, and the yogurt lends a slight tang that keeps it refreshing. It’s naturally light, easy to make, and needs no complex toppings—just a dusting of powdered sugar or a spoonful of fruit is enough to make it shine.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Plain whole milk yogurt (or Greek yogurt)
- Eggs (separated)
- Granulated sugar
- All-purpose flour
- Cornstarch
- Baking powder
- Lemon zest (optional, for added brightness)
- Vanilla extract
- Salt
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
directions
- Preheat oven to 325°F. Line the bottom of an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides.
- In a large bowl, whisk together egg yolks, yogurt, vanilla extract, and lemon zest (if using).
- Sift in flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix until just combined.
- In a separate clean bowl, beat egg whites until foamy. Gradually add sugar and continue to beat until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the egg whites into the yolk mixture in three batches, being careful not to deflate the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Tap the pan lightly on the counter to release any large air bubbles.
- Bake for 4045 minutes, or until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove and cool completely on a wire rack.
- Dust with powdered sugar and serve plain or with fresh berries.
Servings and timing
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 810 slices
Variations
- Citrus twist: Add orange or lime zest for a different flavor profile.
- Berry swirl: Gently fold in a swirl of blueberry or raspberry puree before baking.
- Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for a light and airy GF option.
- Lemon glaze: Drizzle with a simple lemon glaze for a touch of tart sweetness.
- Chocolate chips: Fold in mini white or dark chocolate chips for added texture.
storage/reheating
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To enjoy warm, microwave individual slices for 1015 seconds or let come to room temperature before serving.
FAQs
Can I use non-fat or low-fat yogurt?
Yes, but whole milk yogurt gives the best texture and richness. Thinner yogurts may result in a less stable batter.
What’s the texture like?
It’s light, fluffy, and almost sponge-like—somewhere between a chiffon cake and a soufflé.
Can I make it in advance?
Yes, this cake holds well and can be made a day ahead. Just keep it covered to retain moisture.
Can I use flavored yogurt?
Plain yogurt is best for versatility, but mild-flavored yogurts like vanilla or lemon can also work.
Do I need to refrigerate the cake?
Only if storing for more than 2 days or in warm climates. Otherwise, room temperature is fine.
Why didn’t my cake rise?
Ensure your egg whites are whipped to stiff peaks and gently folded in without overmixing. Also check that your baking powder is fresh.
Can I bake it in a springform pan?
Yes, just make sure it’s well-greased and lined to prevent leaks or sticking.
Is this cake sweet?
It’s mildly sweet, making it perfect for pairing with fruit, jam, or a light glaze.
Can I freeze it?
Yes, wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature.
What can I serve with it?
Top with berries, a dollop of whipped cream, lemon curd, or even a spoonful of yogurt for a double hit of creamy goodness.
Conclusion
Light & Fluffy Yogurt Cloud Cake is a beautiful, delicate dessert that’s as impressive as it is easy. With its airy crumb, subtle sweetness, and tangy yogurt base, it’s a refreshing break from heavier cakes and a perfect canvas for your favorite toppings. Whether served plain or dressed up, it’s sure to float its way to the top of your favorite dessert list.
Description
Light & Fluffy Yogurt Cloud Cake is an airy, melt-in-your-mouth dessert made with yogurt, eggs, and a touch of lemon—perfectly balanced between cheesecake and sponge cake with a delicate tang.
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and line an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper. Place the pan inside a larger baking dish for a water bath.
- In a bowl, whisk together yogurt, egg yolks, vanilla extract, lemon juice, flour, and cornstarch until smooth.
- In a separate clean bowl, beat egg whites with cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar and beat to stiff peaks.
- Gently fold the egg white mixture into the yogurt mixture in three additions until fully combined.
- Pour batter into the prepared cake pan. Place the pan in a water bath (fill the outer dish with hot water halfway up the side of the cake pan).
- Bake for 4550 minutes until set and lightly golden on top. Turn off oven, crack door, and let the cake cool inside for 30 minutes to prevent collapse.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely. Chill in the refrigerator for 12 hours before slicing.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon zest or swap vanilla for almond extract.
- Ensure egg whites are beaten to stiff peaks for best volume and texture.
- This cake is best served chilled with fruit or a dollop of whipped cream.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 90mg