Ultimate Fluffy Sand Cake
This Ultimate Fluffy Sand Cake is the culmination of my years of baking experience, reflecting a perfect balance of flavors and textures. With an exquisite combination of lightness from the yogurt and moisture from the oil, this cake is incredibly versatile and adaptable for any occasion. Whether you wish to enjoy it plain, mix in seasonal fruits, or add warming spices for a comforting dessert, this cake serves as a perfect base. The addition of whole-wheat flour gives it a delightful rustic touch, while the optional toppings and variations ensure that you can create a new experience each time. Ideal for family gatherings or a cozy tea party, this cake is destined to become a beloved classic in your dessert repertoire.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
15
Ingredients
Ingredients
Corn oil
1 cup (Can substitute with sunflower oil, vegetable ghee, margarine, or butter.)
Sugar
2 1/2 cups (Granulated sugar.)
Eggs
5 (Large eggs, beaten.)
All-purpose flour
3 cups (Or substitute with 2 cups all-purpose flour + 1 cup whole-wheat flour for a rustic texture.)
Plain yogurt
1/2 cup (Plain, unsweetened yogurt.)
Water
1/2 cup (Room temperature.)
Baking powder
1 teaspoon (Standard baking powder.)
Baking soda
1/2 teaspoon (Standard baking soda.)
Vanilla extract
1 teaspoon (Pure vanilla extract.)
Ground cardamom
1 teaspoon (For flavor.)
Orange
1 (Juice and zest, grated.)
Golden raisins
1/2 cup (For sweetness.)
Cocoa powder
1/2 cup (For chocolate flavor (optional).)
Anise seed
1 teaspoon (For flavor (optional).)
Coarsely-chopped walnuts
1/2 cup (For added crunch (optional).)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and prepare your cake pan by greasing and flouring it to prevent sticking.
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the corn oil and sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture until it's light and fluffy, ensuring the sugar is well incorporated.
3
Add the eggs, one at a time, to the oil and sugar mixture, beating well after each addition to create a smooth batter.
4
In a separate bowl, mix together the yogurt and water until fully blended. This will add moisture and tenderness to your cake.
5
Start incorporating the flour into the batter in thirds, alternating with the yogurt-water mixture. Begin with the flour, then add some of the yogurt mixture, and repeat until everything is combined. Mix gently to avoid overworking the batter.
6
Fold in the baking powder, baking soda, spices, and any desired variations such as dried fruits, nuts, or cocoa powder, stirring until just combined.
7
Pour the cake batter into your prepared pan. The consistency should be pourable but not overly runny.
8
Place the pan in a cold oven and set the temperature to 180°C (350°F). Bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, approximately 50-60 minutes.
9
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to sit in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. For a softer outer texture, you can wrap it in plastic while it's still warm.
10
Optional: Dust with icing sugar before slicing, and serve with fresh orange juice, coffee, or hot tea for a delightful pairing.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ultimate Fluffy Sand Cake?
It is a versatile and moist cake that balances the lightness of yogurt with the richness of oil, resulting in a rustic and tender dessert.
What makes this cake so fluffy?
The combination of plain yogurt, five large eggs, and the precise mixing of oil and sugar creates a light and airy structure.
Can I use butter instead of corn oil?
Yes, you can substitute corn oil with butter, margarine, sunflower oil, or vegetable ghee depending on your preference.
What type of flour is best for this recipe?
You can use 3 cups of all-purpose flour, or for a more rustic texture, use 2 cups of all-purpose flour mixed with 1 cup of whole-wheat flour.
How many eggs are required?
The recipe requires 5 large eggs, which should be beaten and added one at a time.
Why is yogurt used in the batter?
Yogurt adds moisture and a slight tanginess that helps tenderize the crumb of the cake.
Can I substitute the water in the recipe?
The water is used to blend with the yogurt for moisture, but you could potentially use milk or fruit juice for a different flavor profile.
What temperature should I bake the sand cake at?
The cake should be baked at 180°C (350°F).
How long does it take to bake?
It typically takes between 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Should I preheat the oven?
While the instructions suggest preparing the pan and preheating, one specific step mentions placing the pan in a cold oven and then setting it to 180°C for the baking process.
How do I prepare the cake pan?
The cake pan should be greased and floured thoroughly to prevent the cake from sticking.
Can I add chocolate flavor to this cake?
Yes, you can fold in 1/2 cup of cocoa powder to create a chocolate version of the sand cake.
What spices work well with this recipe?
Ground cardamom and anise seed are excellent choices for adding a warming, aromatic flavor.
Is there a citrus variation?
Yes, the recipe suggests adding the juice and grated zest of one orange for a bright citrus note.
Can I add nuts for texture?
Yes, adding 1/2 cup of coarsely-chopped walnuts provides a delightful crunch.
What kind of raisins should I use?
Golden raisins are recommended for their sweetness and chewy texture.
How do I ensure the cake stays soft?
Wrapping the cake in plastic while it is still warm can help create a softer outer texture.
When should I remove the cake from the pan?
Allow the cake to sit in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
Can I use an electric mixer?
Yes, an electric mixer is recommended for beating the oil and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy.
What is the purpose of baking soda in this recipe?
Baking soda works with the acidic yogurt to provide lift and ensure the cake rises properly.
Can I use vanilla extract?
Yes, 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract is included to enhance the overall flavor.
How should I add the flour?
Incorporate the flour in thirds, alternating with the yogurt-water mixture, and mix gently.
What should the batter consistency look like?
The batter should be pourable but not overly runny before going into the oven.
What can I serve with this cake?
It pairs perfectly with fresh orange juice, coffee, or hot tea.
Can I use granulated sugar?
Yes, 2 1/2 cups of granulated sugar are used to provide the necessary sweetness and structure.
Is this cake suitable for family gatherings?
Absolutely, its size and versatile flavor make it a classic choice for family events and tea parties.
What is the role of anise seed?
Anise seed is an optional ingredient that adds a unique, slightly licorice-like herbal note.
Can I substitute sunflower oil?
Yes, sunflower oil is a great alternative to corn oil in this recipe.
Do I need to sift the flour?
While not explicitly required, sifting flour can help achieve an even lighter texture.
How do I decorate the finished cake?
A simple dusting of icing sugar before slicing is a beautiful and tasty way to finish the cake.