Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this cake combines deep molasses flavor with warm spices and a naturally dense, custardy texture. Since it’s flourless, it’s naturally gluten-free and protein-rich thanks to the Greek yogurt and eggs. It’s super easy to mix together in one bowl and tastes even better after a night in the fridge. Whether I serve it for breakfast, dessert, or a mid-afternoon treat, it’s always a hit.
ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
-
Greek yogurt (plain, full-fat or low-fat)
-
Eggs
-
Molasses
-
Brown sugar or maple syrup
-
Ground ginger
-
Ground cinnamon
-
Ground cloves
-
Ground nutmeg
-
Baking soda
-
Salt
-
Optional: vanilla extract, lemon zest, or chopped candied ginger for extra flavor
directions
-
I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a loaf pan or 8-inch cake pan with parchment paper.
-
In a large mixing bowl, I whisk together the Greek yogurt, eggs, molasses, and sweetener until smooth.
-
I add the spices, baking soda, salt, and any optional flavor add-ins, and whisk until everything is well combined.
-
I pour the batter into the prepared pan—it will be thick but smooth.
-
I bake for 30–40 minutes, or until the top is set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.
-
I let it cool completely in the pan, then refrigerate for a few hours (or overnight) to help it firm up and develop flavor.
-
I serve chilled or at room temperature, with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream if I want to dress it up.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 8 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Chill time: at least 2 hours
Total time: about 2 hours 45 minutes (including chilling)
Variations
Sometimes I mix in chopped walnuts or pecans for texture or stir in a bit of lemon zest for brightness. I’ve also made a lighter version using maple syrup instead of brown sugar. For a richer dessert, I top it with a cream cheese glaze or serve it alongside spiced poached pears.
storage/reheating
I store the cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. It gets even more flavorful as it sits. I usually enjoy it cold or bring it to room temperature, but I’ve also gently warmed it in the microwave for a softer, pudding-like texture.
FAQs
Is this cake gluten-free?
Yes, since it’s made without flour, it’s naturally gluten-free. I just double-check all my ingredients to be sure they’re certified gluten-free.
Can I use flavored Greek yogurt?
I usually stick with plain yogurt to control the sweetness and spice, but a vanilla or lightly spiced version can work in a pinch.
What gives the cake structure without flour?
The eggs and Greek yogurt bind and set the cake during baking, giving it a dense, custard-like texture that’s rich and satisfying.
Can I make this cake ahead?
Absolutely. I often make it a day in advance—it tastes even better after chilling overnight.
What’s the best pan to use?
I usually use a loaf pan for a denser slice, but a round or square pan works just as well. I just keep an eye on the baking time depending on the thickness.
Conclusion
Flourless Gingerbread Greek Yogurt Cake is one of those desserts that feels indulgent but is surprisingly wholesome. It’s warm, comforting, and full of holiday spice, with a silky texture that keeps me coming back for more. Whether I’m sharing it with guests or enjoying a quiet slice with coffee, it always feels like the perfect treat.
PrintFlourless Gingerbread Greek Yogurt Cake
Rich, moist, and perfectly spiced, this flourless gingerbread Greek yogurt cake is a wholesome holiday-inspired treat made without flour.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American, Holiday
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups Greek yogurt (plain, full-fat or low-fat)
3 large eggs
1/2 cup maple syrup or honey
1/4 cup molasses
1/4 cup coconut oil (melted) or unsalted butter
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups almond flour (or any flour of choice for a gluten-free version)
2 tsp ground ginger
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground cloves
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1/4 tsp salt
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 cup chopped candied ginger (optional, for added texture)
For the Glaze (optional):
1/4 cup powdered sugar (or maple syrup for a healthier glaze)
1 tbsp milk (or almond milk)
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a round or square cake pan (9-inch) with coconut oil or line it with parchment paper.
Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, eggs, maple syrup (or honey), molasses, melted coconut oil (or butter), and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together almond flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, salt, baking powder, and baking soda.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until fully combined. If you’re using chopped candied ginger, fold it into the batter now.
Bake the Cake:
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool the Cake:
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Glaze (optional):
If you’re making the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar (or maple syrup), milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake.
Serve:
Slice and serve the cake as is or with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat!
Notes
This cake is naturally gluten-free when made with almond flour. You can substitute with oat flour or other gluten-free flours as needed.
For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free Greek yogurt or coconut yogurt.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.