French Yogurt Cake

Name: French Yogurt Cake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 container (4.4 oz / 125 g) plain yogurt; 2 containers (7 oz / 200 g) sugar; 3 containers (6.3 oz / 180 g) all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 container (4 fl. oz / 120 ml) vegetable oil (neutral taste); 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or lemon zest (optional)

Recipe By:

Rachael

Posted:

February 6, 2025

Jump to Recipe

French Yogurt Cake has a special place in many hearts, and for good reason. This delightful dessert, known as “Gâteau au yaourt” in France, brings a taste of French comfort right to your kitchen. What’s great about it is how straightforward the recipe is, making it perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. The yogurt not only adds moisture but also keeps the cake tender, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Plus, it’s super easy to mix together, typically requiring little more than a yogurt container for measuring. You can also personalize it with different flavors or toppings, making each baking adventure unique. Whether you’re planning a gathering or simply craving something sweet, French Yogurt Cake is sure to hit the spot!

Jump to:

What is French Yogurt Cake

French Yogurt Cake, or “Gâteau au yaourt,” is a delightful dessert beloved in French households. This simple yet elegant cake leverages the creaminess of yogurt to create a moist and tender crumb. Traditionally, it requires minimal measuring, making it an accessible recipe for bakers of all levels. Its mild flavor allows for a variety of twists, making it perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This French Yogurt Cake

You’re going to love this French Yogurt Cake, not just because it’s easy to make. It’s incredibly versatile, too! The yogurt ensures a wonderful moisture and softness in the cake, giving it that melt-in-your-mouth texture. Additionally, its subtle sweetness provides a fantastic base for various toppings; fresh fruits or decadent chocolate glazes work wonderfully. You can impress your friends and family without spending hours slaving away in the kitchen.

Ingredients for French Yogurt Cake

1 container (4.4 oz / 125 g) plain yogurt
2 containers (7 oz / 200 g) sugar
3 containers (6.3 oz / 180 g) all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 container (4 fl. oz / 120 ml) vegetable oil (neutral taste)
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract or lemon zest (optional)

Gathering your ingredients is an uncomplicated process. You’ll find that having everything ready can make your baking experience even more enjoyable.

Instructions for Making French Yogurt Cake

Preheat Your Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). While this happens, grease a 9-inch (23 cm) springform pan. This ensures that your cake will come out smoothly after it’s done baking.

Mix Yogurt and Wet Ingredients

Next, grab a large mixing bowl and add the plain yogurt. Then, toss in the eggs, sugar, vanilla extract (if you’re using it), and the oil. Whisk everything together until you have a smooth mixture. It should look nice and creamy!

Prepare for Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time to prepare the dry ingredients. Rinse and dry the yogurt container so you can easily measure the flour and baking powder. This method not only simplifies measuring but keeps things mess-free.

Combine Dry Ingredients

Add the all-purpose flour and baking powder into your yogurt mixture. Gently mix until just combined, ensuring you avoid overmixing. This helps keep the cake’s texture light and airy. Your goal is to see no dry flour; a few lumps are perfectly fine.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the greased springform pan, making sure to smooth the top. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for about 35 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean when the cake is ready.

Cool Down

Once the baking time is up, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After that, gently transfer it to a wire rack. While it’s best enjoyed at room temperature, waiting for it to cool down just adds to the anticipation!

Serving Suggestions

You can serve slices of French Yogurt Cake either plain or with a light dusting of powdered sugar. If you’re feeling a bit more decadent, consider pairing it with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream. Each bite will bring a little joy!

Tips for Success

To achieve the best mixing results, make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature.
Resist the urge to open the oven door in the first 25 minutes of baking. This helps prevent the cake from collapsing.

Variations

Don’t hesitate to experiment a bit! Consider adding cocoa powder for a velvety chocolate cake, or fold in crushed nuts for some unique texture. If you’re looking for a fruity twist, you can also replace half the yogurt with fruit puree. The options are endless!

Storage Tips

Leftover cake? Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you’d like it to last longer, refrigeration can keep it fresh, though it may impact the texture slightly. Just remember to let it come back to room temperature before enjoying!

Pairing Ideas

For a delightful experience, this versatile cake goes wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. Whether you enjoy it as a light dessert after a meal or as a cozy treat during afternoon tea, it’s sure to please.

FAQs

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of regular yogurt?

Yes! Greek yogurt is a good alternative, but do keep in mind it will create a denser cake.

How can I make this cake gluten-free?

Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Can I add fruits to the batter?

Absolutely! Chopped apples or fresh berries can enhance both flavor and moisture.

Is it possible to freeze the French Yogurt Cake?

Yes! To freeze, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in the freezer.

How do I know when the cake is done?

Your cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

French Yogurt Cake is a simple yet rewarding dessert that’s sure to impress. Whether for a casual family gathering, a festive occasion, or just a sweet treat for yourself, this cake checks all the boxes: it’s easy to make, delicious, and a true crowd-pleaser. Its adaptable nature means there’s a version of this cake for everyone, ensuring it remains a classic in any home bakery.

More Easy Desserts & Sweets Recipes:

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card