Introduction
Gâteau au Yaourt à 3 Ingrédients Seulement (3-Ingredient Yogurt Cake – No Flour, No Butter, No Sugar) is the ultimate proof that you don’t need a long list of ingredients to create a mouthwatering treat. With just three pantry staples, this cake is light, moist, and incredibly simple to make—yet it’s wonderfully satisfying. No need for flour, butter, or sugar; just eggs, yogurt, and baking powder come together to create a tender, subtly sweet cake that can be enjoyed any time of day. Whether you’re looking for a healthier snack or a guilt-free dessert, this cake ticks all the boxes.
Ingredients & Quantity
1. Greek Yogurt (or plain yogurt) – 1 cup (240g)
2. Eggs – 3 large
3. Baking Powder – 1 ½ teaspoons
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a round cake pan (approximately 20 cm/8 inches) or line it with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the yogurt and eggs until smooth and well combined. You’re aiming for a uniform, creamy texture here.
3. Add Baking Powder: Stir in the baking powder, which will help the cake rise and achieve a fluffy texture.
4. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly. Place it in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
5. Cool & Serve: Let the cake cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve as is, or top with powdered sugar, berries, or a dollop of whipped cream for an added touch.
Origin
The Gâteau au Yaourt is a quintessentially French recipe that has been passed down through generations. It’s often referred to as the “cake that every French child learns to bake.” Traditionally, the yogurt container itself is used as the measuring cup for the rest of the ingredients, making it incredibly easy and accessible. This no-frills cake is often baked at home, embodying the French ideal of simple, everyday indulgence.
Cultural Significance
In France, this cake is a symbol of homey comfort and simplicity. It embodies the French ethos of using few, quality ingredients to create something delightful without much fuss. It’s often seen as a family cake, baked for casual gatherings or afternoon snacks, and it can even serve as a gateway for young bakers to start learning about cooking. The beauty of this cake lies in its versatility, where it can be enjoyed plain or with creative additions, and it’s always seen as a homemade treat that carries a lot of love.
Description
Despite having only three ingredients, the Gâteau au Yaourt à 3 Ingrédients Seulement has a surprisingly delicate and moist texture. The yogurt lends a slight tang that balances the natural sweetness of the eggs, and the cake itself is soft, almost sponge-like. It’s light and airy, with a subtle richness that comes from the yogurt. The cake is perfect on its own or can be dressed up with toppings like fresh fruit or a dusting of powdered sugar. It’s an uncomplicated, yet satisfying dessert that feels wholesome while still indulgent.
Optional Additions
While this cake is delicious as is, here are a few optional ingredients to experiment with:
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon) for a classic, comforting flavor.
Citrus zest (lemon, orange) for a fresh and zesty twist.
Spices like cinnamon or nutmeg (½ teaspoon) for a warming touch.
Chocolate chips (1/4 cup) for a little extra sweetness.
Chopped nuts (like almonds or hazelnuts) for a crunchy texture.
Fresh berries (mixed in the batter or as a topping) to add freshness and color.
A tablespoon of honey or maple syrup if you want a bit of natural sweetness without adding refined sugar.
Tips for Success
Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the yogurt and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. Cold ingredients can cause the batter to seize or not blend well.
Don’t Overmix: Mix just until everything is combined. Overmixing can result in a dense cake.
Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cake after 25 minutes, as ovens vary. If the top is getting too dark, cover it with foil and continue baking.
Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean when the cake is done.
Cooling: Let the cake cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps it firm up and makes it easier to slice.
Nutritional Information (per serving, assuming 8 servings)
Calories: ~120 kcal
Protein: 6g
Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 50mg
This cake is a great choice for anyone looking to indulge without overloading on sugar or refined carbs. The Greek yogurt provides a healthy dose of protein and probiotics, while keeping the overall calorie count moderate.
Conclusion
This Gâteau au Yaourt à 3 Ingrédients Seulement proves that simplicity is often the key to a delicious treat. With just three ingredients, it’s easy to whip up, and the result is a soft, moist, and satisfying cake that doesn’t require any complicated steps. Whether you’re a baking pro or a beginner, this cake is the perfect balance of flavor and ease. Plus, it’s a great base for adding your own twist, from fresh fruit to spices or even a little chocolate.
Recommendation
This cake is perfect for anyone looking for a quick, healthy dessert or snack. If you’re trying to reduce sugar or avoid refined flours, this is an ideal choice. The recipe is so adaptable, you can make it your own with minimal effort. I highly recommend giving it a try—whether you want a light treat for yourself or an easy dessert for friends and family.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
This cake embraces the concept of healthful indulgence by proving that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor or texture to make a healthier dessert. By using natural ingredients like yogurt, this recipe offers a way to enjoy a guilt-free sweet treat without relying on sugar, butter, or flour. It’s a great example of how we can indulge in the simple pleasures of life while still staying mindful of our health goals.
Let me know if you need more adjustments or have any further questions!
