Why This Sesame Yogurt Cake is a Must-Try
There’s something magical about the smell of freshly baked cake wafting through the house. A few weeks ago, I decided to try my hand at making a Sesame Yogurt Cake, and let me tell you—it was love at first bite! This cake is light, fluffy, and has just the right hint of nuttiness from sesame seeds. It’s perfect for those days when you want something sweet but not overly indulgent. Whether you’re baking for your family or hosting friends, this recipe will leave everyone asking for seconds.
The Story Behind Sesame Yogurt Cake
This cake has roots in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines, where yogurt and sesame are staples. Sesame seeds have been used for centuries in cooking, not just for their flavor but also for their nutritional benefits. Traditionally, cakes like this were made as a simple treat to enjoy with tea or coffee. Over time, home bakers added their own twists—like swapping out ingredients or adding citrus zest—to make it even more delightful. My version strikes a balance between tradition and modern flair, making it accessible for anyone who loves baking.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe
What makes this Sesame Yogurt Cake stand out? First, it’s incredibly easy to make. Even if you’re new to baking, this recipe is foolproof. The combination of yogurt and sesame gives it a unique texture—moist yet airy—and a flavor that’s both comforting and exotic. Plus, it pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea. And here’s a bonus: it’s versatile! You can tweak it to suit your taste buds or dietary needs without losing its charm.
Perfect Occasions to Bake This Cake
Need an excuse to whip up this cake? You don’t really need one! But if you’re looking for ideas, this Sesame Yogurt Cake is perfect for weekend brunches, afternoon tea parties, or even as a dessert after dinner. It’s also a great option for potlucks or holiday gatherings because it travels well and looks impressive on any table. Trust me, once you bake it, you’ll find yourself making it again and again.
Ingredients for Sesame Yogurt Cake
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup of sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup of oil (vegetable or sunflower works best)
- 1 cup of natural yogurt
- 2 cups of sifted flour
- 1 tablespoon of dusty yeast
- Butter and sesame seeds to grease the mold
Substitution Options
If you’re looking to switch things up, here are some ideas:
- Replace half the oil with banana puree or apple compote for a moister cake.
- Use almond extract instead of vanilla for a nuttier aroma.
- Swap regular flour with gluten-free flour if you’re catering to dietary restrictions.
These swaps keep the essence of the Sesame Yogurt Cake intact while adding your personal touch.
Step 1: Beat the Eggs and Sugar
Start by cracking 4 eggs into a large mixing bowl. Add a full cup of sugar and grab your electric mixer. Beat them together for about 8 minutes. Watch as the mixture transforms into a pale yellow, spongy delight. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into the batter, giving the cake its light and airy texture. Pro tip: Make sure your eggs are at room temperature for better results.
Step 2: Incorporate Liquids
Once your egg-sugar mix is ready, it’s time to add the wet ingredients. Pour in a teaspoon of vanilla extract, a cup of oil, and a cup of natural yogurt. Keep beating until everything blends smoothly. The yogurt adds moisture and a slight tang, balancing the sweetness perfectly. Imagine the creamy aroma filling your kitchen—it’s almost therapeutic!
Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift 2 cups of flour and mix in a tablespoon of dusty yeast. Slowly fold these dry ingredients into your wet mixture using gentle, enveloping motions. Be careful not to overmix; we want a soft, lump-free batter. Chef’s tip: Sifting the flour ensures there are no clumps, which helps achieve that velvety texture everyone loves.
Step 4: Prepare the Mold
Before pouring the batter, prepare your cake mold. Grease it generously with butter, then sprinkle sesame seeds all over the bottom and sides. These seeds not only prevent sticking but also create a beautiful crust that enhances the cake’s flavor. Picture golden sesame specks glistening against the soft interior—it’s almost too pretty to eat!
Step 5: Bake
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Pour the batter into the prepared mold and pop it in the oven. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. As it bakes, your kitchen will fill with the warm, inviting scent of sesame and vanilla. Pro tip: Rotate the mold halfway through baking for even cooking.
Step 6: Let Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Carefully unmold it onto a serving plate. Slice a piece and watch the steam rise—this is the moment you’ve been waiting for! Serve it plain or with a dollop of whipped cream. Pair it with coffee or tea, and enjoy every bite.
Timing
Here’s a quick breakdown of the timing:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
It’s a quick recipe that delivers big flavors!
Chef’s Secret
For an extra burst of flavor, zest a lemon or orange into the batter before baking. The citrus notes complement the sesame beautifully, adding a refreshing twist to each bite.
Extra Info
Did you know sesame seeds are packed with calcium and healthy fats? They’ve been used in traditional medicine for centuries. So not only does this Sesame Yogurt Cake taste amazing, but it’s also good for you!
Necessary Equipment
To make this cake, you’ll need:
- A large mixing bowl
- An electric mixer
- A sifter
- A cake mold
- An oven
Simple tools for a spectacular result!
Storage Tips
Store your Sesame Yogurt Cake in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Place it on the counter for up to 3 days or in the fridge for a week. If refrigerated, let it come to room temperature before serving for the best texture. For longer storage, wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and freeze them. Thaw overnight in the fridge for a quick treat anytime.
Tips and Advice
Here are a few tips to elevate your cake:
- Use high-quality yogurt for richer flavor.
- Don’t skip sifting the flour—it makes a difference!
- Let the cake cool completely before slicing for clean cuts.
These small tweaks can take your baking skills to the next level.
Presentation Ideas
Make your cake shine by dusting powdered sugar on top or drizzling honey over each slice. Garnish with fresh berries or a sprig of mint for a pop of color. Serve it on a vintage cake stand for a charming touch.
Healthier Alternative Recipes
Want to make this cake healthier? Try these variations:
- Gluten-Free: Swap regular flour with almond or oat flour.
- Low-Sugar: Reduce sugar by half and use stevia or monk fruit sweetener.
- Vegan: Replace eggs with flaxseed gel and use plant-based yogurt.
- Protein-Packed: Add a scoop of protein powder to the batter.
- Fruit-Infused: Mix in blueberries or chopped apples.
- Spiced: Add cinnamon or cardamom for warmth.
Mistake 1: Overmixing the Batter
Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of a light, airy one. When folding in the dry ingredients, stop as soon as everything is combined. Practical tip: Use a spatula instead of a mixer for this step.
Mistake 2: Skipping the Sifting Step
Sifting might seem optional, but it prevents lumps and aerates the flour. Without it, your cake may turn out uneven. Tip: Always sift flour and powdered yeast together for consistency.
Mistake 3: Underbaking
An underbaked cake will be soggy in the middle. To avoid this, test with a toothpick—it should come out clean. Pro tip: Set a timer and check a few minutes before the recommended baking time ends.
FAQ
Can I use Greek yogurt?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt works wonderfully in this recipe. Its thicker consistency adds extra moisture to the cake.
How do I know when the cake is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready. If not, bake for another 5 minutes and check again.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes! Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months.
What size cake mold should I use?
A standard 9-inch round or square mold works perfectly for this recipe.
Is this cake kid-friendly?
Definitely! Kids love its mild sweetness and soft texture. Plus, the sesame seeds add a fun crunch.
Can I add chocolate chips?
Of course! Fold in a handful of chocolate chips during Step 3 for a decadent twist.
Why is my cake dry?
Dryness usually happens if you overbake or use too much flour. Measure ingredients carefully and stick to the recommended baking time.
Do I have to use sesame seeds?
No, but they add a unique flavor and texture. You can omit them or replace them with poppy seeds if preferred.
Can I make this in a bundt pan?
Yes, just adjust the baking time slightly since bundt pans distribute heat differently.
How many calories per slice?
Each slice contains approximately 280 calories, depending on portion size and ingredient choices.
Final Thoughts
Baking a Sesame Yogurt Cake is more than just following a recipe—it’s about creating moments of joy. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying a quiet moment alone, this cake is sure to bring smiles. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to fall in love with this delightful treat. Happy baking!

Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Sifter
- Cake mold
- Oven
Ingredients
- 4 units eggs
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup oil (vegetable or sunflower)
- 1 cup natural yogurt
- 2 cups sifted flour
- 1 tablespoon dusty yeast
- q.s. butter to grease the mold
- q.s. sesame seeds to grease the mold
Instructions
- Crack 4 eggs into a large mixing bowl and add 1 cup of sugar, then beat together with an electric mixer for about 8 minutes.
- Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 cup of oil, and 1 cup of natural yogurt to the egg-sugar mix and beat until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, sift 2 cups of flour and mix in 1 tablespoon of dusty yeast, then gently fold this mixture into the wet ingredients.
- Grease the cake mold with butter and sprinkle sesame seeds inside.
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and then pour the batter into the prepared mold.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool for a few minutes before unmolding it onto a serving plate.