Yogurt-soaked cake

The syrup-soaked yogurt cake is a simple yet incredibly delicious dessert that brings a touch of freshness and joy in every bite. This recipe stands out for its moist texture and the aromatic combination of yogurt and orange, making it perfect for any occasion, from a gathering with friends to a family celebration. Let's embark together on the captivating world of cooking and discover how to prepare this wonderful cake!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 12

Ingredients
- 1 cup of yogurt (about 250 g, you can use plain yogurt or Greek yogurt for a creamier texture)
- 1 cup of oil (preferably sunflower oil or light olive oil for a subtle flavor)
- 2 cups of sugar (you can adjust the amount according to your preferences, or use brown sugar for a caramel note)
- 3 cups of flour (cake flour or whole wheat flour for a healthier option)
- 1 teaspoon of grated orange zest (for a fresh taste, use organic orange zest)
- 1 packet of baking powder (about 10 g)
- 3 eggs (make sure they are at room temperature for better incorporation into the mixture)
- Water and sugar to taste for the syrup (depending on how sweet you like your cake)
- 3-4 tablespoons of coconut (optional, for decoration)

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the oven and the pan: Start by preheating the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. This is the ideal temperature for achieving a uniformly baked and golden cake. While the oven heats up, you can prepare the pan! Choose a pan of about 20x30 cm and line it with parchment paper. This step is essential to prevent the cake from sticking.

2. Mixing the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, use a whisk to mix the yogurt with the sugar. Make sure the sugar is completely dissolved. Then, gradually add the oil while continuously mixing. This step adds extra moisture and richness to your cake.

3. Adding the eggs and flavors: Continuing to mix, add the eggs one at a time. Each egg should be well incorporated before adding the next. Then, add the grated orange zest to bring an enticing aroma to the mixture.

4. Incorporating the dry ingredients: In another bowl, sift the flour together with the baking powder. This will help avoid lumps in the batter. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet mixture, stirring with a spatula or whisk. Make sure everything is well blended.

5. Baking the cake: Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and level the surface with a spatula. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake the cake for 30-35 minutes. It is important to do the toothpick test: if you pull out the toothpick clean, the cake is ready.

6. Preparing the syrup: While the cake is baking, you can prepare the syrup. In a small saucepan, add water and sugar to taste. Simmer the mixture over low heat until the sugar is completely dissolved. You can adjust the amount of sugar according to your preferences. A sweeter syrup will add a decadent touch to the cake.

7. Soaking the cake: Once the cake is baked and has cooled slightly, cut it into cubes directly in the pan. Pour the warm syrup over the cake, ensuring that each piece is well soaked. This is when the cake truly becomes special!

8. Decorating: Sprinkle coconut on top of the cake for added texture and an attractive appearance. Coconut not only adds a delicious taste but also a pleasing visual aspect.

9. Serving: Allow the cake to cool completely before serving. You can enjoy it plain or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a perfect contrast of textures.

Practical Tips
- Ingredient variations: You can experiment with flavored yogurt (e.g., vanilla yogurt) or other citrus flavors like lemon. You can also add nuts or dried fruits to the mixture to diversify the texture.
- Calories and nutritional benefits: This cake contains approximately 250 calories per serving. Yogurt adds protein and calcium, while the oil provides healthy fats. Enjoy in moderation and savor the pleasure of a homemade dessert!

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use another type of yogurt? Yes, you can use Greek yogurt or soy yogurt for a vegan option.
- How can I make the cake gluten-free? Substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour, such as almond flour or rice flour.
- How long can the cake be stored? The cake keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, covered with plastic wrap.

Delicious Combinations
- Beverages: This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of citrus tea or a creamy cappuccino. You can also add a splash of almond milk for a pleasant contrast.
- Related recipes: If you enjoy this cake, I recommend trying other yogurt desserts, such as yogurt and fruit cake or yogurt cheesecake.

The syrup-soaked yogurt cake is more than just a simple dessert; it is a cooking experience that brings joy and flavor to every day. Don't forget to share the final result with your loved ones and enjoy every bite! Enjoy your meal!