Authentic Yazdi Cake Recipe with oil: A Persian Delight
Yazdi Cakes are a quintessential part of Persian confectionery, known for their soft, fluffy texture and aromatic flavor profile. This traditional Iranian cupcake is perfect for any occasion, encapsulating the rich cultural heritage of Iran. Learn how to prepare this delightful treat at home with this detailed Yazdi Cake Recipe, ensuring each bite transports you to the heart of Iran.

Ingredients
Serves 6-8 people
Ingredient | Amount |
---|---|
Pastry Flour | 350 grams |
Sugar | 150 grams |
Eggs | 3 |
Honey | 2 tablespoons |
Thick Yogurt | 50 grams |
Rose Water | 1 tablespoon |
Baking Powder | 1 teaspoon |
Cooking Oil | 1/2 cup |
Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
Cardamom Powder | 1 teaspoon |
Vanilla Extract | 1/4 teaspoon |
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Base – Start by adding sugar and eggs into a large mixing bowl. Using a hand whisk, beat until the mixture achieves a smooth, uniform consistency. Introduce honey, rose water, vanilla, baking powder, yogurt, cardamom, and salt into the bowl. Mix thoroughly to integrate all the ingredients.
Step 2: Forming the Batter – Pour half of the cooking oil into the mixture, blending well. Sift the pastry flour twice to ensure no lumps, then gradually add it to the batter, stirring continually to form a dough-like consistency. Incorporate the remaining oil and mix until smooth.

Step 3: Preparing the Oven – Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F). Arrange the Yazdi cake molds on a baking tray. You may line the molds with parchment paper or grease them lightly to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Filling the Molds – Fill each mold to two-thirds with the batter prepared earlier. Create a cross mark on the top of each cake with a small knife—this step is crucial for the cakes to rise beautifully. Optionally, sprinkle sesame seeds on top for added texture.
Step 5: Baking the Cakes – Position the tray in the preheated oven. Bake the Yazdi Cakes for 15 to 20 minutes, ensuring they rise well and attain a golden hue. Once they are perfectly baked, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool completely.

Step 6: Adding Finishing Touches – After cooling, arrange the Yazdi Cakes on a serving plate. For a more festive presentation, melt some chocolate using the bain-marie method and drizzle it over the cakes. Enjoy your homemade Yazdi Cake, a true Persian specialty!
Pro Tips
For an authentic Yazdi Cake experience, ensure your rose water is fresh and aromatic. Overbeating the eggs can result in a denser texture, so aim for a gentle mix. If you do not have access to traditional Yazdi molds, small muffin tins work as a great alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely, if rose water isn’t available, you can use orange blossom water for a different but equally delightful floral note.
Store your Yazdi Cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate them to extend their freshness for a week.
The cross mark is a traditional technique that helps the cakes rise evenly, resulting in their characteristic domed top, a hallmark of this Persian delicacy.