lighter coffee cake with yogurt pecans and raisins
Author of this recipe: Deb Yusuf
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<think>
Alright, the user wants an SEO-optimized description for a lighter coffee cake using yogurt, pecans, and raisins. It needs to be under 150 characters.
First, I should identify the key elements: coffee cake, lighter version, yogurt, pecans, raisins. The main keywords would be "coffee cake," "lighter," "yogurt," "pecans," "raisins."
I need to make it catchy and include all these terms naturally. Maybe start with something appetizing like "Quick & Easy." Then mention the ingredients: "Layered in this delicious lighter coffee cake."
Next, highlight how it's lighter than traditional cakes by including "lighter," "fluffy texture" from yogurt, and "tender bites of pecans and raisins."
End with a call to action or a enticing phrase like "Perfect for coffee lovers!".
Putting it all together, I need to keep it concise but informative. Let me count the characters to stay under 150.
</think>
"A quick & easy lighter coffee cake made with yogurt, perfectly balanced with tender pecans and juicy raisins for a moist, coffee-forward flavor."
Alright, so the user is asking for a list of ingredients for a lighter coffee cake using yogurt, pecans, and raisins. They want it bullet-pointed with SEO-friendly formatting and including relevant keywords.
First, I should figure out what they need exactly. They’re looking to make a coffee cake but want it lighter. Using yogurt probably helps with that since it's lower in fat than butter or cream cheese. Adding pecans and raisins gives it some nuttiness and chew, which is nice.
Now, for SEO-friendly formatting, I should use keywords like "coffee cake recipe," "lighter coffee cake," "yogurt based coffee cake," etc. Maybe bullet points with each ingredient having the keyword included in the title or something.
I need to list all necessary ingredients. Starting with flour, then sugar, baking powder, salt—these are standard for cakes. Then moving on to the dry mix: cocoa powder and baking soda maybe? Oh wait, since it's coffee cake, perhaps some coffee flavor is needed. So coffee extract could be an option instead of regular cocoa.
Yogurt is key here because they want it lighter. So low-fat Greek yogurt would make sense. Eggs for the structure. Then, melted butter or shortening as a fat source.
For dry ingredients: flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, instant yeast if using that, maybe xanthan gum for elasticity.
Adding pecans and raisins as toppings seems right. They also have a mention of lemon zest from the coffee, so that's another ingredient to include.
Don't forget the optional ones like vanilla extract or food coloring—if they're adding any colors, it goes here. Lastly, a note on substituting ingredients if needed but keeping them optional for flexibility.
I should make sure each point is clear and concise, using bullet points with each main category as a subheading. Also, include the keywords naturally in each item without overstuffing.
</think>
**Yogurt-Based Lighter Coffee Cake Ingredients:**
- **Flour**: All-purpose flour
- **Sugar**: granulated sugar
- **Baking Powder**:
- **Salt**:
- **Dry Mix (Optional)**:
- **Coconut or Chocolate Chips**: For added flavor (optional)
- **Baking Soda**:
- **Coffee Extract**:
- **Yeast**: instant yeast (if using)
- **Xanthan Gum**: for elasticity (optional)
- **Wet Ingredients**:
- **Yogurt**: low-fat Greek yogurt
- **Eggs**:
- **Melted Butter or Shortening**:
- **Pecans**: chopped for topping
- **Raisins**: sliced for topping
- **Lemon Zest**: from fresh coffee (optional)
- **Vanilla Extract**: (optional, for flavor)
- **Food Coloring**: (optional, if using colored yogurt)
Let me know if you'd like further details or substitutions!
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Steps
<think>
Alright, I need to create detailed steps for making a lighter coffee cake using yogurt, pecans, and raisins. The user wants this in about 500 characters, so I should be concise but thorough.
First, I'll start with the ingredients. It's important to list everything clearly—like all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, milk, vanilla extract, Greek yogurt, peanut butter, egg, melted butter, and spices. Don't forget the toppings: pecans and raisins. Including these will help users know what they need.
Next, the step-by-step process. I should divide it into two main parts: making the batter and assembling the cake. For the batter, mixing dry and wet ingredients separately makes sense. Then combining them and adding toppings before baking keeps it organized.
I need to ensure that the instructions are clear for someone who might not be experienced in baking. Using simple language is key here. Also, including some tips like letting the cake cool completely will help prevent mishaps.
Now, SEO-friendly part—using relevant keywords without overstuffing. Words like "coffee cake recipe," "lighter coffee cake," and "yogurt pecans" should be included naturally throughout to improve search engine visibility.
I'll make sure each step is numbered for easy reading and bullet points where necessary. Adding some additional info about the benefits of using Greek yogurt or peanut butter can add value without being too lengthy.
Finally, wrapping it up with a positive note about the taste and how it's lighter and moist will make it appealing. I should check that everything flows well and covers all necessary aspects for someone to successfully make this cake at home.
</think>
**Lighter Coffee Cake Recipe with Yogurt Pecans and Raisins**
Looking for a delicious and healthier coffee cake? This recipe combines creamy Greek yogurt, crunchy pecans, and soft raisins to create a lighter, moist, and flavorful base. Follow these steps to make your perfect batch!
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### **Ingredients**
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup milk (or substitute with almond or soy milk for plant-based options)
- 3 tablespoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (room temperature, unsweetened)
- 1 tablespoon peanut butter (optional but adds richness)
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup melted butter (or substitute with oil or vegan alternative)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda (if using a cake mix without baking soda already included)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon fresh coconut or chocolate chips (optional, for added crunch)
**Toppings of choice:**
- 1 cup roasted pecans
- 2 tablespoons raisins
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### **Instructions**
1. **Prepare the Batter:**
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and optional baking soda or cream of tartar if using a boxed mix. Set aside.
- In another bowl, combine milk, vanilla extract, Greek yogurt, peanut butter (if using), beaten egg, melted butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, and coconut chips or chocolate chips. Mix until smooth.
2. **Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:**
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to maintain lightness.
3. **Add Toppings:**
- Stir in pecans, raisins, and coconut chips (if using) for added crunch and flavor.
4. **Bake the Cake:**
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease two 9-inch round or springform pans. Pour batter evenly into prepared pans. Bake for 40-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean and jiggles freely in the center.
5. **Cool Completely:**
- Allow the cake to cool completely on a wire rack before serving. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
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### **Tips**
- For an extra creamy texture, whip Greek yogurt until smooth before using it in the batter.
- This recipe is suitable for vegans by substituting almond or soy milk and plant-based alternatives where possible.
- Add more raisins for a spicier kick or crunch.
- If you prefer a lighter texture, use oil instead of butter.
Enjoy your healthier coffee cake! Let us know how it turns out in the comments below. 😊