Are you craving a decadent yet easy dessert that doesn't require hours in the kitchen? Then look no further! This chocolate yogurt cake recipe is the perfect solution. It's unbelievably moist, rich in chocolate flavor, and surprisingly simple to make, even for beginner bakers. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight treat or a delightful weekend baking project. Prepare to be amazed by how delicious and easy homemade desserts can be!
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- ¾ teaspoon baking powder
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup plain yogurt (any kind works!)
- 1 cup boiling water
- For the Chocolate Ganache (optional):
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal of your delicious cake.
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Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents for a perfectly light cake.
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Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat well until the mixture is light and fluffy. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer makes this step much easier and faster.
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Combine Wet & Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Don't overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake.
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Yogurt & Water: Stir in the yogurt, then slowly add the boiling water while mixing continuously. The batter will become thin—that's perfectly normal!
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Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cool & Frost (Optional): Let the cake cool completely in the pan before frosting. While the cake is cooling, prepare the chocolate ganache (optional, but highly recommended!).
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Chocolate Ganache (Optional): Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and pour over the chopped chocolate. Let it sit for a few minutes, then whisk until smooth and glossy. Pour the ganache over the cooled cake and spread evenly.
Tips for the Best Chocolate Yogurt Cake:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature eggs and yogurt helps create a smoother batter and promotes even baking.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
- Toothpick Test: The toothpick test is the best way to ensure your cake is fully baked.
- Cooling Time: Allowing the cake to cool completely prevents the frosting from melting.
Variations:
- Add-ins: Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or even fresh berries to the batter for extra flavor and texture.
- Frosting: Get creative with your frosting! Cream cheese frosting, peanut butter frosting, or even a simple powdered sugar glaze would all be delicious options.
- Different Yogurt: Experiment with different flavors of yogurt, such as vanilla or strawberry, for a unique twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Around 250-300
- Fat: 10-15g
- Protein: 4-6g
- Carbohydrates: 35-40g
This easy chocolate yogurt cake recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s a perfect example of how delicious and satisfying healthy meals can be. Enjoy this quick dinner idea or delightful dessert, perfect for any occasion! Happy baking!