What Is French Yogurt Cake?

French yogurt cake, also known as gâteau au yaourt, is a classic French dessert that combines the tangy flavor of yogurt with the moist and fluffy texture of a cake. It is a simple yet elegant treat that can be enjoyed for breakfast, as a snack, or as a dessert.

History and Origin

The origins of French yogurt cake can be traced back to the early 20th century. In 1921, a French dairy company introduced a new type of yogurt called “yaourt Bulgarie.” This yogurt was made with Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus, two beneficial bacteria that gave it a distinctive tangy flavor.

French housewives quickly adopted yogurt into their cooking, and it soon became a common ingredient in many recipes, including cakes. The first known recipe for French yogurt cake appeared in a 1933 cookbook by Madame Saint-Ange.

Ingredients and Preparation

French yogurt cake is made with a simple combination of ingredients:

• Plain yogurt
• Sugar
• Flour
• Baking powder
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract

The cake is prepared by whisking together the yogurt, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Then, the flour and baking powder are added and mixed until just combined. Finally, the eggs are beaten and added to the batter.

The batter is poured into a greased and floured cake pan and baked in a preheated oven. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Key Characteristics

French yogurt cake is known for its unique characteristics:

• Moist and fluffy texture: The yogurt in the batter keeps the cake moist and fluffy, even after several days.
• Tangy flavor: The yogurt also imparts a subtle tangy flavor to the cake, balancing out the sweetness.
• Simple ingredients: The cake is made with a few basic ingredients, making it easy to prepare at home.
• Versatile: French yogurt cake can be served for breakfast, as a snack, or as a dessert. It can also be customized with different flavors and toppings.

Variations and Flavors

French yogurt cake can be customized with a variety of flavors and toppings:

• Lemon: Add lemon zest and juice to the batter for a refreshing twist.
• Orange: Use orange zest and juice for a sweet and citrusy flavor.
• Vanilla: Add extra vanilla extract or vanilla beans for a classic flavor.
• Chocolate: Add cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolatey treat.
• Fruit: Top the cake with fresh berries, sliced bananas, or other fruit.
• Nuts: Sprinkle chopped nuts on top of the cake before baking for added crunch.

Serving Suggestions

French yogurt cake can be served warm or cold, with or without toppings. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• Breakfast: Serve a slice of yogurt cake with a cup of coffee or tea.
• Snack: Enjoy a slice of yogurt cake as an afternoon snack.
• Dessert: Serve yogurt cake with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream.
• Party: Cut yogurt cake into small squares and serve as a finger food at parties.

Final Thoughts: French Yogurt Cake – A Culinary Delight

French yogurt cake is a delicious and versatile dessert that is easy to prepare and can be enjoyed in many different ways. Its moist and fluffy texture, tangy flavor, and simple ingredients make it a popular choice for home bakers and pastry chefs alike.

Questions You May Have

• Can I use different types of yogurt in French yogurt cake? Yes, you can use any type of plain yogurt, including Greek yogurt, whole milk yogurt, or non-fat yogurt.

• How can I make my French yogurt cake more flavorful? You can add different flavors to the batter, such as lemon zest, orange juice, or vanilla extract. You can also top the cake with fresh fruit, nuts, or chocolate chips.

• Can I make French yogurt cake ahead of time? Yes, you can make French yogurt cake ahead of time and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the cake for up to 2 months.