Desserts
A tall, tender, lemon-vanilla Italian ring cake with a delicate crumb, golden crust, and snowy powdered sugar finish. This version follows the classic “soffice” style built around yogurt and whipped egg whites for extra lightness.
Heat the oven to 180°C / 350°F. Grease and flour a 26 cm / 10 in bundt pan.
In a large bowl, whisk 150 g / 5.3 oz of the sugar with the oil, yogurt, vanilla, and lemon zest until smooth and creamy.
Sift in the flour, cornstarch, and baking powder. Mix just until smooth. Do not overwork the batter.
In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites until foamy. Gradually add the remaining 50 g / 1.8 oz sugar and whip until glossy soft-stiff peaks form.
Fold the whipped egg whites into the batter in 3 additions, using slow upward motions to keep the mixture airy.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Tap the pan once gently on the counter to release any large air bubbles.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the cake is golden and a skewer inserted comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then unmold and cool completely on a rack.
Dust generously with powdered sugar before serving.
Slice and serve with coffee, tea, or a spoonful of berry compote.
Dish type
Breakfast cake / Dessert
Serving & garnish suggestion
Finish with powdered sugar, extra lemon zest, and fresh berries. For a gourmet touch, plate each slice with softly whipped cream and a thin lemon twist.
Notes
Use room-temperature ingredients for a smoother batter. Fold gently so the egg whites do not collapse. Store covered at room temperature for 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 4 days. Classic ciambella soffice references use yogurt, whipped whites, a ring mold, and a powdered sugar finish, and are typically served as a simple Italian breakfast or snack cake.
Time
Prep 20 minutes | Bake 35 minutes | Total 55 minutes
Difficulty
Easy
Calories
About 300 kcal per serving (10 servings, estimated)