Here’s a cherished recipe for Grandma’s Italian Yogurt Cake, known in Italy as “Torta Allo Yogurt.” This delightful cake is moist, tender, and infused with a subtle lemon flavor, making it perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (245g) plain or Greek yogurt
- ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon (15g) cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon (15g) baking powder
- A pinch of salt
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) springform or round cake pan.
- Prepare the Batter:
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add the yogurt, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and lemon zest to the egg mixture. Mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
- Bake the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
- Transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve:
- Before serving, dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar for a decorative touch.
- Slice and enjoy this moist and flavorful Italian yogurt cake with your favorite beverage.
Tips:
- Yogurt Measurement: In traditional Italian recipes, a standard 125g yogurt container is often used as a measuring tool. For this recipe, 1 cup of yogurt is approximately equivalent to one standard container.
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with different yogurt flavors or add-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruits to customize the cake to your liking.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
This Italian yogurt cake is a simple yet delicious dessert that embodies the warmth and love of a grandmother’s kitchen. Its moist texture and subtle sweetness make it a versatile treat suitable for various occasions.
