The aroma of freshly baked cake fills the air, transforming my kitchen into a cozy haven. This 3-Ingredient Creamy Yogurt Cake is a delightful solution for those moments when you crave something sweet yet uncomplicated. With just three simple ingredients, this gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly dessert takes minimal time to prepare, making it perfect as a quick afternoon treat or a glamorous finish to dinner. The light, fluffy texture and gentle hint of vanilla can easily be customized with your favorite yogurt—think zesty lemon or rich honey—while toppings like fresh berries add a playful touch. Once you taste this cake, you might find yourself questioning why you ever opted for store-bought desserts in the first place. Ready to transform your kitchen into a bakery? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why is this yogurt cake a must-try?

Simplicity at Its Finest: With just three ingredients, this cake is a breeze to whip up, perfect for even novice bakers.
Delightfully Versatile: Switch up the flavor by using different yogurt varieties; think zesty lemon or honey for a refreshing twist.
Gluten-Free Goodness: Enjoy this gluten-free dessert without compromising on taste—ideal for those with dietary preferences.
Quick to Make: Bake it in the oven or air fryer for a fantastic treat in a fraction of the time compared to traditional cakes.
Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Its light, creamy texture is sure to impress at any gathering—pair with fresh fruits or a drizzle of honey for added flair. Dive into this indulgent delight today, and you’ll forget all about fast food desserts!

3-Ingredient Creamy Yogurt Cake Ingredients

For the Cake

Nonfat Vanilla Greek Yogurt – Provides the main creaminess and moisture, making it the star of this simple dessert. Substitution: Use full-fat or regular plain yogurt for a richer flavor.
Eggs – Essential for structure and binding, ensuring the cake has that delightful airy texture. No substitutions recommended; egg alternatives may alter texture.
Cornstarch – Acts as a stabilizer that gives the cake a smooth body without heaviness. Substitution: Potato starch can be used if needed.

For Serving (Optional)

Honey – A drizzle adds sweetness and pairs beautifully with the tang of yogurt.
Fresh Fruit – Sliced berries or a fruit compote can elevate the presentation and give a fresh twist to your slice.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for 3-Ingredient Creamy Yogurt Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 177°C (350°F). Grease a 15 cm round cake pan with cooking spray or butter, ensuring it’s evenly coated. To prevent sticking, line the bottom with parchment paper. This will help your 3-Ingredient Creamy Yogurt Cake glide out effortlessly after baking, ensuring a beautiful presentation.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of nonfat vanilla Greek yogurt and 2 large eggs until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gradually add 1/2 cup of cornstarch, continuing to whisk until there are no lumps visible. The batter should have a thick yet pourable consistency, embodying the lightness that defines a perfect yogurt cake.

Step 3: Bake
Pour the creamy batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly using a spatula. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 70-75 minutes. You can tell it’s done when the surface is puffed and slightly golden brown. For air fryer baking, preheat to 160°C (320°F) and cook for 20-23 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.

Step 4: Cool the Cake
Once baked, remove your yogurt cake from the oven and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This cooling period allows the cake to settle. Afterward, transfer it to the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to enhance its flavors and achieve a perfect set.

Step 5: Serve
When you’re ready to serve your delightful 3-Ingredient Creamy Yogurt Cake, take it out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 15-30 minutes. This step allows the flavors to blossom. Optionally, you can top it with a drizzle of honey or fresh fruit for an extra touch of sweetness and color before slicing and enjoying.

How to Store and Freeze 3-Ingredient Creamy Yogurt Cake

Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This ensures the cake remains deliciously creamy while stored, perfect for a quick snack or dessert!

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place in a labeled freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the slices overnight in the refrigerator for the best results. This helps maintain the cake’s delightful softness and flavor.

Reheating: If desired, warm pieces in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to enjoy a cozy, comforting dessert that feels freshly baked!

What to Serve with 3-Ingredient Creamy Yogurt Cake

Indulge in a cozy yet elegant meal that complements the delightful sweetness of your creamy dessert.

Fresh Berries: A medley of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries offers a burst of color and tangy freshness, enhancing the cake’s delightful flavors. Their natural sweetness makes each bite a refreshing experience.
Honey Drizzle: A simple drizzle of honey elevates the yogurt cake’s flavor, adding a touch of golden sweetness that perfectly pairs with its creamy texture.
Chai Latte: The warm spices in a spiced chai latte create a comforting contrast to the lightness of the cake, wrapping you in cozy warmth and flavor.
Cinnamon Dusting: A dusting of cinnamon on top adds a warm, aromatic note, bringing a bit of spice to the overall sweetness of the cake.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream brings a light, airy finish, perfectly complementing the cake’s fluffy texture.
Lemon Sorbet: For a refreshing palate cleanser, serve the cake alongside lemon sorbet. The bright citrus notes cut through the creaminess, creating a vibrant dessert duo.
Mint Sprigs: Fresh mint garnish not only adds visual appeal but introduces a hint of freshness that brightens every bite of your dessert.
Almond Milkshake: Creamy almond milkshakes serve as a delicious drink option, their nuttiness pairing beautifully with the soft vanilla flavors of the cake.
Dark Chocolate Shavings: A sprinkle of dark chocolate shavings can add a sophisticated touch, blending rich and creamy elements for a gratifying dessert experience.

Expert Tips for 3-Ingredient Creamy Yogurt Cake

Chill for Flavor: Allow the cake to cool and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours before serving; this enhances the creamy texture and flavor.
Check for Doneness: To prevent a soggy center, use a toothpick to check if the cake is set. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Perfect Baking Time: Oven baking typically takes 70-75 minutes; keep an eye on it to avoid over-drying. Air fryer adjustments will save you time, cooking in just 20-23 minutes!
Avoid Overmixing: When incorporating cornstarch, mix gently until just combined to maintain the cake’s light texture. Overmixing can lead to a denser cake.
Customize with Yogurt Varieties: Experiment with different flavored Greek yogurt to give your cake a fresh twist that suits your palate. Don’t hesitate to explore unique flavors!
Make Ahead and Freeze: For a later treat, wrap individual slices well and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for a quick dessert that’s ready to enjoy.

Make Ahead Options

These 3-Ingredient Creamy Yogurt Cakes are fantastic for meal prep and can save you time on busy weeknights! You can mix the batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply prepare the cake as directed, cover it tightly, and refrigerate before baking to keep it fresh. After baking, allow the cake to cool for 30 minutes, then refrigerate it for a minimum of 2 hours, or overnight to set the flavor. For serving, let it sit at room temperature for 15-30 minutes before enjoying, allowing the cake to regain its creamy texture. Following these steps will ensure your cake is just as delicious as when it was freshly made!

Variations & Substitutions for 3 Ingredient Creamy Yogurt Cake

Feel free to get creative with this recipe—each variation invites you to explore new flavors and textures that go beyond the classic!

Flavored Yogurt: Use different Greek yogurt flavors like blueberry, honey, or coconut for a unique spin. Each flavor will infuse a delightful twist into the cake’s base.
Sweetener Swap: Replace honey with maple syrup or agave for a different sweetness profile. Both alternatives add a unique flavor while accommodating various dietary preferences.
Berries: Incorporate fresh or frozen berries into the batter for added bursts of flavor. Blueberries and raspberries not only taste great but also give a beautiful color contrast!
Nutty Addition: Fold in some chopped almonds or walnuts for added crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the cake’s creaminess. A sprinkle on top before serving enhances the presentation.
Citrus Zest: Add lemon or orange zest to the batter for a refreshing, zesty surprise that pairs perfectly with the yogurt’s tang. It’s a flavor combination that dances on your palate.
Dairy-Free Version: Substitute the yogurt with a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt to accommodate vegan diets without sacrificing creaminess.
Air Fryer Adjustment: If you love quick treats, check out our guide on making a delicious Zesty Lemon Chicken in the air fryer, while your yogurt cake chills perfectly.
Decadent Topping: Switch up the honey for a velvety chocolate sauce to drizzle over the top, transforming your yogurt cake into a rich and indulgent dessert.

By experimenting with these variations, you’ll discover endless possibilities that make this 3-Ingredient Creamy Yogurt Cake truly your own!

3-Ingredient Creamy Yogurt Cake Recipe FAQs

What kind of yogurt should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! Nonfat vanilla Greek yogurt is perfect for achieving the cake’s creamy and moist texture. However, if you’re looking for a richer flavor, feel free to substitute it with full-fat or even regular plain yogurt. Just remember that traditional yogurt may alter the texture slightly, so adjust your expectations accordingly.

How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be safely stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to preserve the cake for a longer time, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store them in a freezer bag. When stored properly, these slices can last in the freezer for up to 2 months without sacrificing their delightful taste.

Can I freeze the yogurt cake? If so, how?
Definitely! To freeze your 3-Ingredient Creamy Yogurt Cake, first slice the cake into individual portions. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap to avoid freezer burn, then place them in a labeled freezer bag. When you’re craving a slice, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator. For a warm treat, you can pop it in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before enjoying!

What should I do if the cake isn’t baking right?
If the cake is still gooey in the center after the recommended baking time, it might need a bit more time in the oven. Check for doneness using a toothpick; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If the edges are browning too quickly, cover the cake with aluminum foil to avoid over-baking while the center cooks through.

Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, indeed! This 3-Ingredient Creamy Yogurt Cake is gluten-free, thanks to the use of cornstarch instead of flour. This makes it an excellent choice for those with gluten intolerance or anyone looking to enjoy a lighter dessert option. Always remember to check that your ingredients, especially cornstarch, are certified gluten-free to ensure there are no hidden gluten traces.

Can I use this recipe to make a larger cake?
Very much so! If you’d like to make a larger cake, simply multiply the ingredients accordingly. For example, if you wish to bake a cake double the size, use 2 cups of yogurt, 4 eggs, and 1 cup of cornstarch. Just ensure your baking pan is large enough and adjust the baking time as needed; it may take longer to bake through, so keep a close eye on it!