Fluffy Yogurt Cloud Cake (Printable)

A remarkably light dessert featuring creamy Greek yogurt and fresh lemon zest, delivering delicate sweetness with an airy texture perfect for elegant gatherings.

# What goes in:

→ Dry Ingredients

01 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
02 - 1/2 cup cornstarch
03 - 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
04 - 1/4 teaspoon salt

→ Wet Ingredients

05 - 4 large eggs, separated
06 - 3/4 cup granulated sugar, divided
07 - 1/2 cup vegetable oil
08 - 1 cup full-fat Greek yogurt
09 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
10 - Zest of 1 lemon

→ For Serving

11 - Powdered sugar for dusting
12 - Fresh berries or fruit

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 325°F. Line the bottom of an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper. Leave the sides ungreased to help the cake climb properly.
02 - Whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. Set aside for later use.
03 - Whisk egg yolks with 1/2 cup sugar until pale and creamy, about 3 minutes. Add oil, yogurt, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Mix until smooth and fully incorporated.
04 - Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula. Mix until just combined—some small lumps are acceptable. Do not overmix.
05 - In a clean bowl, beat egg whites with an electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form. Gradually add remaining 1/4 cup sugar and continue beating until stiff, glossy peaks form.
06 - Fold one-third of the beaten egg whites into the batter to lighten it. Gently fold in the remaining whites in two more additions using a spatula. Work carefully to maintain airiness.
07 - Transfer batter to the prepared pan. Smooth the top evenly with a spatula. Tap the pan gently on the counter once to release any large air bubbles.
08 - Bake for 40-45 minutes until the cake is set and golden. A toothpick inserted in the center should emerge clean. Avoid opening the oven during the first 30 minutes.
09 - Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Run a thin knife around the edge to loosen. Invert onto a wire rack, peel off the parchment, and cool completely before serving.
10 - Dust generously with powdered sugar just before serving. Accompany with fresh berries or fruit if desired. The cake can be served at room temperature or chilled.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The yogurt creates an incredibly moist crumb that stays fresh for days
  • This cake hits the perfect sweet spot without feeling heavy or overly sugary
  • You probably have everything in your kitchen right now
02 -
  • Any trace of grease in your bowl will prevent egg whites from reaching their full volume
  • Room temperature eggs incorporate much more easily than cold ones
03 -
  • Separate your eggs while they are cold, then let everything come to room temperature before baking
  • Use a clean, dry, metal or glass bowl for whipping egg whites. Plastic can retain hidden oils.