If you’re looking for a delightful Christmas dessert that’s easy to make and full of flavor, you’re in for a treat with the Polish classic, Ciasto Jogurtowe, or Yogurt Cake. This moist and tender cake is a favorite during the holiday season, boasting a wonderful balance of sweetness and tanginess from the yogurt. Perfect for serving at festive gatherings or enjoying with a cup of tea on a cozy winter afternoon, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your holiday baking repertoire.
**Ciasto Jogurtowe Yogurt Cake**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup vegetable oil
– 3 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the plain yogurt, sugar, and vegetable oil. Mix well until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and lemon zest, mixing until everything is well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this may result in a dense cake.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula to smooth the top.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown on top and slightly pulling away from the sides of the pan.
7. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Once the cake has cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar for a decorative finish, if desired. Slice and serve the Ciasto Jogurtowe Yogurt Cake on a platter, and enjoy the moist, fluffy texture and hint of citrus flavor in every bite.
Indulge in the delightful simplicity of this Polish Christmas baking tradition with Ciasto Jogurtowe Yogurt Cake. Perfectly sweet, tangy, and irresistibly moist, this dessert is a wonderful addition to any holiday celebration. Whether you’re baking for loved ones or simply treating yourself to a cozy homemade treat, this recipe is sure to bring joy and warmth to your home this festive season.