Preparation
1. Prepare the pan.
Preheat the oven to 170°C (340°F). Grease a 20cm round cake tin and line it with parchment paper to prevent the cake from sticking. Alternatively, you can dust the tin with flour after greasing it; this will help the cake release easily.
Pro tip: If you want a cake with perfectly smooth edges, make sure to smooth the butter or oil over the entire surface of the pan before adding the flour or parchment paper.
2. Beat the egg whites.
In a large bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form. This means that when you lift the whisk, the egg whites should hold their shape without falling. The key to a fluffy cake is in this step: the more air you incorporate, the lighter your cake will be. Set the egg whites aside while you prepare the yolk mixture.
3. Prepare the egg yolk mixture.
In another bowl, beat the egg yolks with the sugar until the mixture becomes creamy and pale yellow, about 3-5 minutes. Add the yogurt and vanilla extract, mixing well until smooth. This step ensures the cake has a mild, creamy flavor and a uniform texture.
4. Incorporate the dry ingredients.
Sift the flour and baking powder together over the egg yolk mixture. This helps prevent lumps and ensures a lighter cake. Add the oil or melted butter and mix gently using a spatula or whisk. Avoid overmixing; you only need to combine the ingredients until the batter is smooth.
5. Add the whipped egg whites.
Incorporate the egg whites in three parts, using a folding motion with a silicone spatula or wooden spoon. The folding technique consists of moving the batter from the bottom up, gently rotating the bowl, to avoid losing the air incorporated into the egg whites. This step is crucial for achieving the “cloudy” texture of the cake.
Extra tip: If you mix too quickly or vigorously, the egg whites will deflate and the cake will lose its fluffiness. Patience and gentleness are key.
6. Bake.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the surface with a spatula. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown and slightly firm to the touch.
Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before unmolding, then place it on a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the base from being soggy or breaking when unmolding.
7. Prepare the topping (optional)
If you’d like an extra touch of sweetness and presentation, whip the cream with the powdered sugar until soft peaks form. You can decorate the cake with the whipped cream and add fresh fruit such as strawberries, blackberries, raspberries, or even kiwi slices. The combination of the cake’s soft texture with the freshness of the fruit makes every bite a true delight.
Creative idea: You can also add some jam of your favorite fruit on top of the cream for a spectacular visual effect and a more intense flavor.
8. Serve and enjoy.
Cut the cake into slices and serve it with a cup of coffee, tea, or herbal infusion. Its light and airy texture makes it perfect for any time of day. Even on its own, this cake is a melt-in-the-mouth delight.
Tips and Variations
Greek Yogurt: If you choose Greek yogurt, the cake will be denser, but still creamy and delicious. Adjust according to your preferred texture.
Dairy-Free Version: Substitute the yogurt with plant-based alternatives such as soy, oat, or almond yogurt. You can use vegetable oil instead of butter to maintain a lighter texture.
Alternative Sweeteners: For a healthier version, you can replace the sugar with honey, agave syrup, or coconut sugar.
Decoration: In addition to fresh fruit, you can use a dusting of cocoa powder, chocolate shavings, nuts, or a drizzle of honey over whipped cream.
Why Love This Cake
The Yogurt Cloud Cake is not only delicious but also versatile. Its simple preparation allows you to experiment with flavors, add fruits, spices like cinnamon or lemon zest, or even create mini versions for parties and snacks. The combination of yogurt and whipped egg whites makes this cake light, less cloying than other traditional desserts, and perfect for those looking for a healthier dessert without sacrificing flavor.
Furthermore, it’s a cake that invites creativity. You can fold the dough with cocoa powder for a chocolate version, add pieces of apple or pear for a fruity touch, or fill it with jam and Chantilly cream for a special occasion.
Final thoughts:
The yogurt cloud cake is the definition of simplicity and elegance in a dessert. Its light and fluffy texture, combined with a smooth and delicate flavor, makes it an instant favorite with the whole family. Whether it’s an ordinary morning, an afternoon snack with friends, or a dessert for a special occasion, this cake always impresses.
