Greek Yogurt Sugar-Free Cake
This Greek Yogurt Sugar-Free Cake is a light, moist, and healthy dessert that’s perfect for anyone looking to reduce their sugar intake while still satisfying their sweet tooth. The combination of Greek yogurt and almond flour creates a fluffy texture without relying on refined sugars, making it a great option for those on a low-carb or sugar-free diet.
Prep time: 10–15 minutes
Cook time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: 35–45 minutes
Ingredients:
1 cup Greek yogurt (plain, unsweetened)
3 large eggs
1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce (or substitute with olive oil for a richer flavor)
1/4 cup honey or a sugar-free sweetener (like stevia or monk fruit) based on your preference
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups almond flour (or whole wheat flour for a non-gluten-free version)
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp lemon zest (optional, for extra flavor)
1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any milk of choice)
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a round cake pan (8-inch) or line it with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, Greek yogurt, applesauce (or oil), honey (or sweetener), and vanilla extract until smooth.
In another bowl, combine the almond flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and lemon zest (if using).
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until well incorporated.
Add the almond milk and mix until the batter is smooth.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake for about 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Optional: Top with fresh berries, a dollop of whipped cream, or a sprinkle of powdered sweetener for extra flavor.
Tips for Greek Yogurt Sugar-Free Cake:
Choose the Right Sweetener:
You can use honey, stevia, monk fruit, or another sugar substitute of your choice. If using liquid sweeteners like honey, make sure to adjust the liquid ingredients (e.g., reduce almond milk slightly) to maintain the right consistency.
Greek Yogurt Texture:
Make sure to use thick, full-fat or low-fat Greek yogurt for the best texture. Non-fat Greek yogurt can also work, but the cake may be a bit drier.
Don’t Overmix the Batter:
Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Once the wet and dry ingredients are combined, mix just until incorporated.
Baking Time Variations:
If you’re baking in a different-sized pan, you might need to adjust the baking time. A smaller pan may require more time, while a larger pan will bake faster, so keep an eye on it and test with a toothpick.
Check for Doneness:
Since the cake doesn’t contain sugar, it might not brown as much as traditional cakes. Test with a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean when the cake is done.
Variations:
Add Fruits:
Mix in fresh fruit like blueberries, raspberries, or mashed bananas to add extra flavor and moisture to the cake. If adding fresh fruit, slightly coat them in flour to prevent them from sinking to the bottom.
Spices:
Enhance the flavor with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom. A pinch of cinnamon works wonderfully for a cozy, warming flavor.
Lemon or Orange Zest:
Add a refreshing citrus twist by incorporating lemon or orange zest into the batter. You can also add a little bit of lemon juice for extra tang.
Nutty Texture:
Add chopped nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pecans for a crunchy element. They’ll give a nice contrast to the softness of the cake.
Coconut Flour Variation:
If you prefer a different flour, try swapping out almond flour for coconut flour. If you do, be sure to reduce the amount of coconut flour (about 1/4 cup for every 1 cup of almond flour) as it absorbs more liquid.
Chocolate Chip Version:
Stir in a handful of sugar-free dark chocolate chips for a touch of indulgence without the added sugar.
Frosting or Toppings:
Top the cake with a dollop of whipped coconut cream, a sugar-free glaze, or a few fresh berries for a beautiful presentation. You can also sprinkle a little powdered sweetener on top for a “frosted” look.
Gluten-Free Version:
Ensure that your almond flour is certified gluten-free to make the cake entirely gluten-free.
These variations and tips can help you customize your Greek Yogurt Sugar-Free Cake to suit your tastes or dietary needs!