If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug and requires minimal effort, the 3 Ingredient Yogurt Cake Recipe is an absolute game-changer. With just yogurt, eggs, and a touch of cornstarch, this cake is unbelievably moist, delightfully airy, and versatile enough to suit any taste. Whether you’re a baking novice or pressed for time, this simple cake turns pantry staples into a luscious treat that will wow your friends and family. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The charm of the 3 Ingredient Yogurt Cake Recipe lies in its simplicity: three basic ingredients that each play an important role in crafting a silky texture and subtle tang. These essentials blend beautifully, creating a cake that’s flavorful without fuss.
- Yogurt (1.5 cups): Choose plain or vanilla for a creamy base that gives the cake moisture and a delightful tang.
- Eggs (4): Eggs bind everything together and add richness to the light, airy crumb.
- Cornstarch (5 tablespoons): This acts as a tenderizing agent, giving the cake its signature soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Pure vanilla extract (1 teaspoon, optional): A splash of vanilla adds warmth and depth, elevating the flavor to the next level.
You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.
How to Make 3 Ingredient Yogurt Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Batter
Start by preheating your oven to 350F (175C) to get that perfect baking environment ready. In a mixing bowl, combine the yogurt and eggs, then whisk them together until smooth and creamy. This base is what gives your cake its fantastic rise and tender crumb.
Step 2: Add the Flavor and Texture
Next, stir in the vanilla extract if you’re using it—it adds such a lovely aromatic note. Then gently whisk in the cornstarch until the batter is smooth with no lumps. The cornstarch is the secret behind the cake’s delicate texture.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into a loaf pan lined with parchment paper to ensure easy release. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This step might test your patience, but the golden, slightly crisp exterior is so worth the wait.
Step 4: Cooling and Serving
Once baked, allow your cake to cool completely in the pan before removing. Cooling not only makes slicing easier but also helps the flavors to settle, resulting in that wonderfully tender crumb that makes this cake irresistible.
How to Serve 3 Ingredient Yogurt Cake Recipe
Garnishes
This cake is a fantastic canvas for many toppings. I love dusting it with powdered sugar or drizzling local honey or maple syrup for a gentle sweetness. Fresh berries add bursts of color and freshness that perfectly complement the subtle tang of the yogurt.
Side Dishes
Pair this cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a simple yet elegant dessert. A cup of coffee or a soothing herbal tea alongside will make your snack time feel extra special.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the cake into thin squares and layer them with jam or lemon curd for a delightful mini dessert. You can even serve it as a base for fruit parfaits by breaking it into chunks and alternating layers with yogurt and fresh fruit. The possibilities are deliciously endless!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The cake keeps beautifully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, popping it in the fridge will preserve freshness for about a week, although letting it come back to room temperature before serving is best for flavor and texture.
Freezing
Planning ahead? Freeze leftover cake slices individually wrapped in plastic wrap and sealed in a freezer bag. This way, you can enjoy a treat anytime by simply thawing overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for a few hours.
Reheating
To bring back that just-baked warmth, gently reheat slices in a microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or warm them in a low-temperature oven for a few minutes. This little touch revives the softness and brightens the flavors before serving.
FAQs
Can I use flavored yogurt for the 3 Ingredient Yogurt Cake Recipe?
Absolutely! Using flavored yogurt like vanilla or coconut will add a natural sweetness and distinct flavor, making your cake even more delicious. Just be mindful that sweeter yogurts may reduce the need for extra sugar.
Is cornstarch necessary, or can I substitute it?
Cornstarch is key for achieving the cake’s characteristic softness and delicate crumb. You can try substituting with potato starch or arrowroot powder, but the texture might change slightly.
Can I add sugar to this recipe?
Definitely! If you prefer a sweeter cake, add about 1/4 cup of sugar to the yogurt before mixing. This is especially helpful if you’re using plain yogurt and want a richer sweetness.
How do I know when the cake is fully baked?
The best test is inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. The cake should also feel springy to the touch and pull slightly away from the sides of the pan.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
This recipe is inherently gluten-free since it uses cornstarch instead of flour. Just ensure your cornstarch and other ingredients haven’t been cross-contaminated if you need to avoid gluten strictly.
Final Thoughts
This 3 Ingredient Yogurt Cake Recipe is proof that baking simple can be sensational. It’s an effortless way to whip up a tender, flavorful cake that feels homemade with half the work. So go ahead, gather those pantry staples, and let this delightful cake bring a little sweetness to your day—you’ll be amazed at how something so simple can taste so spectacular.
Print3 Ingredient Yogurt Cake Recipe
This simple and delicious 3 Ingredient Yogurt Cake is a moist, fluffy treat made with just yogurt, eggs, and cornstarch. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack, this cake can be adapted using plain or flavored yogurt to adjust sweetness and flavor. Quick to prepare and easy to bake, it’s a low-sugar, delightful cake that pairs wonderfully with fresh berries, maple syrup, or honey.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Total Time: 60-70 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: International
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Primary Ingredients
- 1.5 cups yogurt (plain or vanilla)
- 4 eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (optional)
- 5 tablespoons cornstarch
Instructions
- Prepare the yogurt mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the yogurt and eggs. Whisk these together thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and homogeneous.
- Add flavor and thickener: Incorporate the pure vanilla extract (if using) and the cornstarch into the yogurt and egg mixture. Whisk again until the batter becomes completely smooth without any lumps.
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to allow it sufficient time to reach the correct baking temperature while you prepare the batter.
- Prepare the baking pan: Line a loaf pan with parchment paper or grease it lightly to prevent the cake from sticking.
- Bake the cake: Pour the smooth batter into the prepared loaf pan and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is fully cooked.
- Cool and serve: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely. Serve topped with fresh berries, maple syrup, or honey to enhance its flavor. Enjoy your moist, simple yogurt cake!
Notes
- You can use flavored yogurt like coconut or vanilla to make the cake sweeter naturally, avoiding extra sugar.
- If using plain yogurt and you prefer a sweeter cake, add 1/4 cup of sugar to the mixture before baking.
- Be sure to whisk the batter thoroughly to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth, fluffy texture.
- Check the cake toward the end of baking time as ovens may vary, and remove it once a toothpick tests clean.
- Letting the cake cool completely helps achieve the best texture and makes slicing easier.
