Soft and Fluffy Marble Yogurt Cake
If you’re looking for a simple yet satisfying homemade cake that uses everyday pantry ingredients, this Soft and Fluffy Marble Yogurt Cake is the perfect recipe. It’s moist, tender, and lightly sweet, with that melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes it impossible to stop at just one slice. What makes this cake stand out is how easy it is to prepare—no fancy equipment, no complicated steps. You’ll love the beautiful swirls of cocoa that not only give it a pretty marbled look but also bring a subtle chocolate richness. Best of all, it bakes in under an hour, making it a quick and reliable go-to dessert or snack cake.
Full Recipe
Ingredients
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3 eggs
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A pinch of salt
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A little vanilla (about 1 teaspoon)
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8 tablespoons sugar
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8 tablespoons oil
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8 tablespoons milk
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8 tablespoons yogurt
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8 tablespoons flour
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1 tablespoon baking powder
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2 tablespoons cocoa powder (for the chocolate batter)
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2 tablespoons milk (for mixing with the cocoa)
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Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Cooking Directions
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Prepare the Batter: Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them with a pinch of salt, vanilla, and sugar until light and fluffy.
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Add Wet Ingredients: Slowly whisk in the oil, milk, and yogurt until smooth.
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Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Sift in the flour and baking powder, gently folding until the batter is lump-free.
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Divide the Batter: Separate the mixture into two portions. In one portion, mix in the cocoa powder and extra 2 tablespoons of milk to create a chocolate batter.
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Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 22 x 12 cm dish with butter. For easier removal, you can also line it with parchment paper.
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Layer the Batters: Pour alternating spoonfuls of vanilla and chocolate batter into the dish to create a marble effect. Swirl gently with a skewer or knife for a pretty pattern.
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Bake: Place in a preheated oven at 175°C and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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Cool and Finish: Let the cake cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar before serving. Slice, enjoy, and watch it melt in your mouth!
Nutrients (Per Slice, Approximate – 10 slices total)
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Calories: 190 kcal
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Carbohydrates: 22 g
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Protein: 4 g
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Fat: 9 g
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Fiber: 1 g
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Sugar: 12 g
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cake has everything you want in a simple homemade dessert: it’s soft, light, and not overly sweet. The addition of yogurt gives it a slight tang and extra moisture, keeping it fresh longer than typical sponge cakes. Plus, the marble effect makes it visually appealing without requiring much extra effort. It’s the perfect cake to whip up when you want something quick, delicious, and pretty enough to impress guests.
The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish
Marble cakes have been enjoyed for centuries, with their origins tracing back to 19th-century Germany. The idea was to combine light and dark batters to create a swirled effect, symbolizing both simplicity and elegance. Over time, this style of cake spread across Europe and beyond. This particular version is inspired by classic European yogurt cakes—often baked with simple measurements like tablespoons, making them accessible for home bakers of all skill levels.
Ingredient Spotlight
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Yogurt: Adds moisture and tenderness, preventing the cake from drying out. It also adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness.
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Cocoa Powder: Brings in that chocolatey depth, ensuring every bite has a rich contrast.
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Eggs: The backbone of the cake, eggs provide structure and a light rise.
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Milk and Oil: Together, these give the cake its soft crumb and ensure it stays fluffy even after a day or two.
Storage and Reheating Tips
This cake keeps beautifully for 2–3 days at room temperature if stored in an airtight container. If you’d like it to last longer, refrigerate it for up to 5 days, though make sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best texture. It also freezes well: slice the cake, wrap each piece in cling film, and store in a freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or give it a quick 15-second microwave warm-up.
Common Variations to Try
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Nutty Swirl: Add chopped walnuts or hazelnuts to the batter for a crunchy bite.
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Citrus Twist: Add lemon or orange zest to the vanilla batter for a fresh, zesty aroma.
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Chocolate Lovers: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top instead of powdered sugar.
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Fruit-Infused: Fold in dried cranberries, raisins, or even small apple chunks to make it more filling.
Pairing Recommendations
This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or black tea. For kids, serve it alongside a glass of cold milk. If you’re hosting brunch, this cake works well with fresh fruit on the side—berries, orange slices, or even a dollop of whipped cream. For a more decadent serving, enjoy it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Health Benefits
While this is an indulgent cake, it does offer some benefits. Yogurt provides probiotics and calcium, while eggs add protein and essential vitamins. Cocoa powder is rich in antioxidants and can boost mood. The beauty of baking at home is you know exactly what’s going into your food—no preservatives, just real ingredients.