Light & Fluffy Yogurt Cloud Cake Recipe

If you’ve ever longed for a cake that’s featherlight, pillow-soft, but also beautifully tangy, the Light & Fluffy Yogurt Cloud Cake is about to win your heart. Imagine slicing into a cake so airy it almost disappears on your tongue, with the gentle tartness of yogurt lifting each bite above the ordinary. Whether you’re baking for a celebration or simply brightening a gray afternoon, this delicate wonder is sure to bring smiles and exclamations of delight to your kitchen table. Let’s dive in and discover why this recipe is destined to become a new favorite!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The Light & Fluffy Yogurt Cloud Cake calls for simple, accessible ingredients that each play a special role in creating an irresistibly light crumb and subtle, nuanced flavor. These pantry staples come together to yield a truly delightful treat.

• Plain whole milk yogurt (1 cup, room temperature): Adds tang and moisture, creating that signature cloud-like texture.
• Vegetable oil (1/3 cup): Keeps the cake ultra-tender rather than heavy or dry.
• Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens gently without overpowering the freshness of the yogurt.
• Large eggs, separated (4): Yolks bring richness, while whipped whites create the billowy, airy structure.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Infuses warmth and rounds out the cake’s flavor profile.
• Cake flour (3/4 cup, or sifted all-purpose): Gives a fine, delicate crumb—absolutely essential for a cloud cake.
• Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): Lightens the crumb even further, helping the cake to nearly melt in your mouth.
• Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Offers extra lift, ensuring your cake bakes up tall and plush.
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Brings out the delicate flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Cream of tartar or lemon juice (1/4 teaspoon): Stabilizes the egg whites so your cake stays fluffy and high.
• Powdered sugar (for dusting): A pretty snow-like finish, adding a touch of elegance to every slice.

How to Make Light & Fluffy Yogurt Cloud Cake

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line just the bottom of an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper and do not grease the sides—this helps the cake cling to the pan as it rises, achieving that tall, cloudlike height. Set up a larger baking dish for your water bath, which is the secret to this cake’s luscious, pillowy texture.

Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a roomy mixing bowl, whisk together your yogurt, vegetable oil, sugar, egg yolks, and vanilla extract until you’ve got a smooth, creamy base. This mixture sets the stage for flavor and moisture, laying the foundation for a truly Light & Fluffy Yogurt Cloud Cake.

Step 3: Sift and Fold in the Dry Ingredients

Gently sift the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt over the wet mixture. Fold these in carefully, just until smooth, to keep the batter delightfully delicate. Avoid overmixing—think of folding like drawing wide, gentle swoops with your spatula.

Step 4: Whip and Fold the Egg Whites

In a clean, grease-free bowl, whip your egg whites with cream of tartar or lemon juice until stiff peaks form. This is where the magic happens! Lighten the yolk batter with a third of the whipped whites, then fold in the rest in two batches. Use a soft hand here to keep as much air as possible in your batter; that’s the secret to achieving true “cloud” status.

Step 5: Bake with a Water Bath

Pour your finished batter into the prepared pan and give it a gentle tap to release any big air bubbles. Place the pan inside the larger baking dish and pour in about an inch of hot water. The water bath insulates the cake, allowing it to cook low and slow, resulting in that signature tremble and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and the center is just set.

Step 6: Cool Gradually

Once baked, turn off the oven and crack the door open. Let the cake cool inside for 15 minutes. This gradual cooling prevents shrinkage and helps your Light & Fluffy Yogurt Cloud Cake retain its lovely shape and billowy height.

Step 7: Unmold and Finish

After cooling completely in the pan, run a thin knife around the edge, gently loosen, and tip out your cake. Dust generously with powdered sugar for a charming finish that practically begs for a photo op.

How to Serve Light & Fluffy Yogurt Cloud Cake

Garnishes

For a pop of color and flavor, shower the cake with fresh berries, toasted almonds, a touch of citrus zest, or a delicate drizzle of honey. The options are endless and cater to every occasion or mood.

Side Dishes

This cake shines beside a simple fruit compote, like stewed blueberries or strawberries, or even a scoop of tangy Greek yogurt for even more creamy goodness. For a special touch, try serving with a light floral tea or your favorite sparkling beverage.

Creative Ways to Present

You can present the Light & Fluffy Yogurt Cloud Cake as a whole centerpiece, or slice into petite layered squares topped with edible flowers for a modern dessert platter. Individual rounds topped with assorted fresh fruit make lovely personal portions for afternoon parties or brunches.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once the cake has cooled completely, wrap it snugly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, maintaining its unique airy texture and lively taste.

Freezing

The Light & Fluffy Yogurt Cloud Cake freezes surprisingly well! Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic and layer in a freezer-safe bag or box. Defrost in the refrigerator overnight for best results; the cake will retain its soft crumb and delicate flavor.

Reheating

If you prefer the cake gently warmed, pop a chilled slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Watch carefully—just a little warmth will restore its fresh-from-the-oven softness without drying it out. Otherwise, enjoy straight from the fridge or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of plain yogurt?

Absolutely! Greek yogurt will add richness and a touch of extra tang; you may want to thin it slightly with a tablespoon or two of milk so the cake retains its airy texture.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

The top should be gently golden and the center set (not wobbly). You can insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs attached.

Can I add flavorings or mix-ins?

Yes! Feel free to add lemon or orange zest for brightness, swap in almond extract for the vanilla, or sprinkle in a handful of fresh berries before baking for a burst of flavor.

Why shouldn’t I grease the sides of the pan?

Not greasing allows the cake to “climb” up the sides of the pan as it bakes, yielding maximum volume and that signature fluffy height. Greasing could cause the cake to slip down and collapse a bit.

Will this recipe work as cupcakes or in a different pan?

You can absolutely make cupcakes or use a different pan, just adjust baking time accordingly. Smaller cakes will bake faster, so begin checking for doneness around the 25-minute mark.

Final Thoughts

Believe me, there’s nothing more rewarding than serving a Light & Fluffy Yogurt Cloud Cake and watching it disappear in minutes! Give this recipe a try—you’ll be amazed by how it turns humble ingredients into something so elegant and ethereal. I can’t wait for you to share this dreamy cake with your loved ones!

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