This traditional Italian cake is a quick and delightful treat that brings the flavors of Italy to your kitchen. With simple ingredients like Greek yogurt, eggs, and a touch of lemon zest, this cake is light, moist, and perfectly sweet. The addition of raisins adds a burst of sweetness, while the sugar sprinkled on top creates a delicate golden crust. This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether served with your morning coffee or as a light dessert.
Ingredients:
- 3 eggs
- 90 g (⅓ cup + 2 tbsp) granulated sugar
- 120 g (½ cup) Greek yogurt
- 70 ml (⅓ cup) milk
- 80 ml (⅓ cup) vegetable oil
- Lemon zest (to taste)
- 3 tbsp raisins
- 270 g (2 ¼ cups) all-purpose flour
- 10 g (1 packet) baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- Butter for greasing
Preparation Steps:
1. Preparing the Raisins:
Start by soaking the raisins in hot water for about 10 minutes. This will allow them to plump up and become juicy, adding a delightful burst of sweetness to the cake. Once soaked, drain and set aside.
2. Whisking the Eggs:
Crack the eggs into a large mixing bowl. Add a pinch of salt and 90 grams of sugar. Using a whisk or an electric mixer, beat the eggs and sugar together until the mixture becomes light, pale, and smooth. This step is crucial as it adds air to the batter, ensuring a light and fluffy cake.
3. Incorporating the Wet Ingredients:
Once your egg mixture is smooth, add the Greek yogurt, vegetable oil, and milk. Continue whisking until everything is well combined. The Greek yogurt adds a beautiful creaminess to the cake, while the vegetable oil ensures it stays moist. For an added citrus note, grate in some fresh lemon zest to taste. The lemon zest brings a bright flavor to balance the sweetness of the raisins and sugar.
4. Crafting the Dough:
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour and baking powder. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. The dough should be thick and luscious. Take care not to overmix, as this could lead to a denser cake. Finally, gently fold in the drained raisins to distribute them evenly throughout the batter. Each bite will have a pop of sweetness thanks to these plump raisins.
5. Preparing the Baking Pan:
Grease a baking dish with butter or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This ensures the cake will easily release from the pan once baked. Pour the batter into the prepared dish and spread it evenly using a spatula.
6. Sprinkling and Baking:
For an extra touch of sweetness and a slightly crunchy top, sprinkle a little granulated sugar over the surface of the cake. This will caramelize during baking, forming a delicious golden crust. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the cake for 40 minutes. The cake is done when the top is golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cooling and Serving:
Once the cake is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This will help the cake set and retain its structure. Slice and serve your Italian yogurt cake either warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions:
This cake is versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. Serve it with a dusting of powdered sugar for a simple, elegant finish. For an indulgent twist, pair the cake with a spoonful of whipped cream or a drizzle of honey. It also goes perfectly with fresh berries or a side of your favorite jam. Enjoy it with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a traditional Italian experience.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Servings: 8
- Calories per serving: 235 kcal
- Protein: 6 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Carbohydrates: 31 g
- Sugar: 12 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Calcium: 65 mg
This Italian Yogurt Cake is a wonderful blend of simplicity and flavor. It’s quick to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers a moist, tender crumb with a delicate sweetness. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this cake is sure to impress. Enjoy a taste of Italy in just 15 minutes of prep time!
