If you’re looking for a simple, moist cake that comes together quickly with minimal fuss, this air fryer yogurt cake is the perfect choice. Its tender crumb and subtle tang from the yogurt make it a delightful treat that’s ideal for breakfast, snack time, or dessert. Plus, using the air fryer ensures a beautifully baked cake with a golden crust without heating up your oven.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (240g) plain Greek yogurt
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil or melted unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups (180g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 330°F (165°C) for about 3 minutes. Grease a 6-inch cake pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt and sugar until smooth and well combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, whisking after each addition to incorporate fully. Then, stir in the vegetable oil and vanilla extract until the batter is smooth.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing gently until just combined. Do not overmix to keep the cake light and airy.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Place the pan into the preheated air fryer basket. Cook at 330°F (165°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove the cake from the air fryer and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
Tips
- Use full-fat Greek yogurt for a richer, moister cake. Low-fat or non-fat yogurt can make the cake drier.
- If you don’t have a 6-inch cake pan, a similarly sized silicone mold or oven-safe ramekin can work. Just adjust baking time accordingly.
- To add flavor, mix in citrus zest, cinnamon, or chopped nuts into the batter before baking.
- Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can cause the cake to be dense instead of fluffy.
Serving Suggestions
This yogurt cake pairs beautifully with fresh berries, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of honey. It can be enjoyed plain or topped with a dollop of whipped cream or yogurt for extra richness. For a more decadent treat, serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Variations
- Chocolate Yogurt Cake: Fold in 1/4 cup of cocoa powder and chocolate chips into the batter before baking.
- Lemon Yogurt Cake: Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest and substitute vanilla extract with lemon extract for a citrus twist.
- Banana Yogurt Cake: Replace half of the yogurt with mashed ripe bananas for added moisture and flavor.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
Storage and Reheating
Store the cooled cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to 5 days. To reheat, gently warm slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a low-temperature oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes. Keep in mind that refrigeration can sometimes dry out the cake; reheating helps restore moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use flavored yogurt instead of plain Greek yogurt?
Yes, flavored yogurt can add extra flavor to your cake, but be mindful of the added sugars and flavors that may alter the texture and sweetness. Consider reducing the sugar slightly if using sweetened flavored yogurt.
Is it necessary to preheat the air fryer?
Preheating the air fryer for about 3 minutes ensures the cake starts baking immediately, which helps it cook evenly and develop a nice crust. Skipping preheating may result in uneven baking.
Can I make this cake without eggs?
Yes, you can substitute eggs with ingredients like applesauce, mashed banana, or commercial egg replacers. Keep in mind that these substitutions may slightly alter the texture and rise of the cake.
How do I know when the cake is done?
The cake is ready when the top is golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking time may vary depending on your air fryer model, so start checking at around 25 minutes.
Can I double the recipe for a larger cake?
Doubling the recipe is possible, but you’ll need a larger, suitable cake pan and may need to increase baking time by 5-10 minutes. Always check for doneness with a toothpick.
What if my cake cracks on top?
A slight crack is normal and often a sign of a well-risen cake. To minimize cracks, avoid opening the air fryer during baking and ensure the batter is not overmixed.
Related
- Cowboy Candy Recipe with Honey for a Sweet and Spicy Snack
- Anaheim Cowboy Candy Recipe: Sweet and Spicy Pickled Peppers
- Cherry Pepper Cowboy Candy Recipe: Sweet & Spicy Pickles