Apple Cranberry Cake with Greek Yogurt (High Protein Recipe)
This apple cranberry cake is one of my favorite recipes to bake when apples and fresh cranberries are in season. It has a soft, creamy texture thanks to Greek yogurt, sweet pieces of apple in every bite, and just the right amount of tart cranberries to balance the sweetness.
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Although it is often compared to cheesecake because of its creamy texture, this cake feels lighter and fresher. Greek yogurt creates a soft, moist crumb without making the cake heavy, while the fruit keeps every slice juicy and full of flavor.
Whether you serve it as an afternoon treat with coffee, a simple family dessert, or prepare it ahead for the week, this easy apple yogurt cake is one of those recipes you’ll want to make again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Apple Cranberry Cake
This Greek yogurt apple cake combines everything I love about simple homemade baking. It is creamy, fruity, easy to prepare, and made with everyday ingredients.
- soft and creamy texture
- naturally high in protein thanks to Greek yogurt
- sweet apples balanced with tart cranberries
- easy to make with simple pantry ingredients
- perfect for dessert, coffee breaks, or meal prep
- stores well in both the refrigerator and freezer
- great way to use fresh seasonal apples
Ingredient Notes
Every ingredient in this apple cranberry cake helps create its soft texture and balanced flavor.
Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt gives this cake its creamy texture while keeping it lighter than a traditional cheesecake. It also adds extra protein and a gentle tang that pairs perfectly with the fruit.
Apples
Fresh apples add natural sweetness and moisture. Almost any variety works well, from sweet Honeycrisp and Gala to slightly tart Granny Smith. This recipe is also perfect for using apples that have become a little soft.
Fresh Cranberries
Cranberries bring small bursts of tartness that balance the sweetness of the apples and make every bite more interesting.
Eggs
Eggs help the cake set properly while keeping the texture soft and light.
Semolina
Semolina gives the cake structure while still keeping it tender. Together with the baking powder, it creates a soft crumb that slices beautifully once cooled.
How To Make Apple Cranberry Cake
This recipe is surprisingly simple and comes together with just a few easy steps.
Start by whisking the eggs, sugar, and vanilla until light and smooth. Add the melted butter or oil, followed by the Greek yogurt, and mix with a hand mixer until everything is fully combined.
Next, stir in the semolina, baking powder, and lemon juice before gently folding in the chopped apples and fresh cranberries.
Transfer the batter to your prepared baking pan, smooth the surface, and bake until the cake is lightly golden and the center is fully set. Let it cool completely before slicing, as the texture becomes even creamier while cooling.
Expert Baking Tips
- Cut the apples into evenly sized pieces so they bake uniformly.
- Do not overmix the batter after adding the dry ingredients.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before cutting for the cleanest slices.
- The flavor is even better after chilling overnight in the refrigerator.
- If using frozen cranberries, add them directly without thawing.
Storage Tips
Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. It also freezes beautifully. Slice the cake first, separate the pieces with parchment paper, and freeze for up to three months. Simply thaw a slice overnight in the refrigerator whenever you want an easy homemade dessert.
Apple Cranberry Cheesecake with Greek Yoghurt
Ingredients
- ¾ cup melted unsalted butter (200 g)
- or
- ¾ cup neutral vegetable oil (180 ml ≈ 165 g)
- 5 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar (200 g)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla sugar (about 16 g)
- 1 cup semolina (150 g)
- 2 teaspoons baking powder (about 15 g)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (about 20 ml)
- 4 cups low fat Greek yogurt (1 kg)
- 4 cups chopped apples (800 g)
- ½ to 1 cup fresh cranberries (unsweetened (100 to 200 g))
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C fan).
- Line a 9×13 inch (about 23 x 33 cm) baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Melt the butter if using and let it cool slightly. (You can also use oil instead of butter)
- In a large bowl, whisk the eggs with the sugar and vanilla sugar until slightly creamy.
- Add the melted butter and mix well.
- Stir in the Greek yogurt until smooth and fully combined.
- Add semolina, baking powder and lemon juice. Mix until everything is incorporated.
- Fold in the chopped apples and fresh cranberries.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, until the top is lightly golden and the center is set.
- Let the cake cool completely before slicing. It firms up as it cools.
- Store in the refrigerator. It tastes even better the next day.
Equipment
Notes
- Calories: 190 kcal
- Protein: 8 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes. Frozen cranberries work just as well as fresh ones. Simply add them straight to the batter without thawing first. You may need to bake the cake for a few extra minutes.
What apples work best for apple cranberry cake?
Almost any apple variety works well. Honeycrisp, Gala, Fuji, and Pink Lady add natural sweetness, while Granny Smith creates a slightly more tart flavor that pairs beautifully with the cranberries.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely. In fact, this apple cranberry cake tastes even better the next day after chilling in the refrigerator. The flavors blend together and the texture becomes even creamier.
Can I freeze apple cranberry cake?
Yes. Slice the cake first and place parchment paper between the pieces before freezing. Store in an airtight container for up to three months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Why is Greek yogurt used instead of cream cheese?
Greek yogurt gives the cake its soft, creamy texture while keeping it lighter than a traditional cheesecake. It also adds extra protein and a fresh, slightly tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the apples and cranberries.
You May Also Like
If you enjoyed this apple cranberry cake, here are a few more recipes you might like:
- Whole Wheat Banana Pancakes – fluffy whole wheat pancakes that are naturally sweetened with ripe bananas.
- Cherry Frozen Yogurt – an easy high protein frozen dessert made with only two ingredients.
- Easy Raspberry Greek Yogurt Dessert – a creamy no bake dessert that’s perfect for warmer days.
- Homemade Vegan Protein Bars – a simple no bake snack that’s naturally sweetened and packed with plant based protein.
- Healthy Banana Protein Milkshake – a creamy high protein drink that’s ready in just a few minutes.
- Whole Grain Waffles – crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Final Thoughts
This apple cranberry cake with Greek yogurt is one of those recipes that feels both comforting and fresh. The creamy yogurt, sweet apples, and tart cranberries create a delicious combination that’s perfect for any season, especially during autumn and the holidays.
I love making this cake when I want an easy homemade dessert that isn’t overly heavy. It comes together with simple ingredients, stores well, and tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or sharing with family and friends.
If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Feel free to experiment with different apple varieties and make it your own.
Hope you enjoyed this article 🙂
