Can I make Cloud Bread in advance for a party?

Unfortunately, Cloud Bread is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. It begins to deflate within an hour and loses its magical texture. Plan to bake it when your guests are already present for the best experience.

Why did my Cloud Bread deflate quickly?

This is normal! Cloud Bread contains a lot of air and will naturally deflate as it cools. The structure is temporary by nature, which is part of what makes it special – it's truly a "live in the moment" dessert.

Can I use a sugar substitute in this recipe?

Traditional granulated sugar helps stabilize the egg whites. While some bakers have had success with granulated sugar substitutes like erythritol, the texture may not be identical to the original. Liquid sweeteners won't work as they'll prevent proper whipping.

My egg whites won't form stiff peaks. What went wrong?

Several factors could be at play: egg whites that are too cold, equipment with traces of fat or egg yolk, or not beating long enough. Make sure your bowl and beaters are completely clean, your egg whites are at room temperature, and you're patient with the whipping process.

Cloud Bread Recipe - Emilyscook

Name: Cloud Bread Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Global
Ingredients: 4 Egg Whites, from large eggs; ⅓ cup Granulated Sugar; 1½ tablespoons Cornstarch; 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (optional, see notes for alternatives); A few drops of Food Coloring (optional)

This light and airy Cloud Bread is a delightful treat that lives up to its name – it’s truly like biting into a fluffy, sweet cloud! With just a handful of ingredients and simple techniques, you can create this Instagram-worthy dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. The pillowy texture combined with a subtle sweetness makes this a unique addition to your baking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Incredibly Simple: With just 4-5 basic ingredients, this recipe is surprisingly easy to whip up.
Visually Stunning: The fluffy, cloud-like appearance makes for a beautiful presentation that’s perfect for social media photos.
Customizable: Easy to adapt with different extracts and colors to match any occasion or preference.
Fun Texture: The unique, melt-in-your-mouth consistency creates a memorable eating experience unlike traditional baked goods.
Quick Project: Great for when you want something impressive but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Egg Whites: The foundation of Cloud Bread, providing the structure and airiness. Make sure they’re at room temperature for maximum volume.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the bread and helps stabilize the egg whites. The sugar needs to be gradually incorporated to create a stable meringue.
Cornstarch: Acts as a stabilizer that helps maintain the cloud-like structure during baking. It also contributes to that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, sweet flavor that enhances the overall taste. This ingredient brings depth to what would otherwise be just sweet egg whites.
Food Coloring: Completely optional but adds a fun visual element. Pastel colors work beautifully to create that dreamy cloud effect.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Flavor Twists

Citrus Cloud: Replace vanilla with ¼ teaspoon lemon extract and add a teaspoon of fresh lemon zest for a bright, refreshing version.
Almond Joy: Use ½ teaspoon almond extract and sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes after baking.
Chocolate Cloud: Add 1 tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder to the mixture for a chocolate version.
Berry Bliss: Fold in a few drops of berry extract and a drop of pink or purple food coloring.

Presentation Ideas

Rainbow Clouds: Divide the mixture and color each portion differently, then swirl together gently before baking.
Layered Look: Create small, thin clouds that can be stacked with whipped cream between layers.
Mini Clouds: Make smaller portions for individual servings that are perfect for parties.

How to Make Cloud Bread

Step 1: Prepare Your Equipment

Preheat your oven to 300°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Make sure your mixing bowl is completely clean and dry – any grease will prevent the egg whites from whipping properly.

Step 2: Whip the Egg Whites

Begin whisking the egg whites until they become frothy and bubbly. You can use a stand mixer, hand mixer, or even do this by hand if you’re up for a workout! Start at medium speed and gradually increase to high.

Step 3: Add Remaining Ingredients

Once the egg whites are frothy, gradually add the sugar while continuing to whisk. Then add the cornstarch and vanilla extract (or your chosen flavor). If using food coloring, add a few drops now. Continue whisking until you achieve stiff, glossy peaks – when you lift the whisk, the mixture should stand up firmly.

Step 4: Shape Your Clouds

Using a spatula, gently form the mixture into two dome shapes on the parchment paper. Take care not to deflate the mixture. Use the spatula to round out the edges, creating that perfect cloud-like appearance. Let the domes sit for 5-10 minutes before baking.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the outside has a slight golden hue (or a tinted version of golden if you’ve used food coloring). The exterior should be crisp while the inside remains marshmallowy and soft.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Room Temperature Egg Whites: They’ll whip up much better than cold ones.
Clean Equipment: Any trace of fat will prevent proper whipping, so make sure bowls and whisks are spotlessly clean.
Gradual Sugar Addition: Add sugar slowly while beating to ensure it dissolves completely.
Patience With Whipping: Don’t rush the whipping process – properly whipped egg whites are the key to success.
Gentle Handling: Use light, folding motions when shaping to preserve the air bubbles you’ve worked so hard to create.
Watch Closely While Baking: Ovens vary, so start checking around the 20-minute mark to prevent over-browning.

How to Serve

Sweet Pairings

Serve your Cloud Bread alongside fresh berries and a dollop of whipped cream for a light dessert. The contrast between the fluffy bread and juicy fruit is absolutely delightful.

Breakfast Twist

Enjoy as a special breakfast treat with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup and a sprinkle of powdered sugar.

Beverage Companions

Cloud Bread pairs wonderfully with:

Hot chocolate for a cozy treat
Afternoon tea for an elegant snack
Cold milk for a classic combination
Coffee for a sweet break

Remember to eat your Cloud Bread right away for the best texture and experience!

Make Ahead and Storage

Immediate Enjoyment

Cloud Bread is definitely a “make and eat immediately” type of treat. The magic of its texture is fleeting – it begins to deflate within about an hour of coming out of the oven.

Serving Tips

Cut around the parchment paper to serve the bread directly on plates, avoiding the need to handle the delicate structure. If you must lift it, support it from the bottom where it’s less sticky.

Photography Timing

If you’re making Cloud Bread for photos, have your camera ready to go before it comes out of the oven so you can capture it at its most impressive.

Eating Technique

Use a fork or spoon rather than your fingers – the exterior is quite sticky, similar to cotton candy but even more tacky to the touch.

FAQs

Can I make Cloud Bread in advance for a party?

Unfortunately, Cloud Bread is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. It begins to deflate within an hour and loses its magical texture. Plan to bake it when your guests are already present for the best experience.
Why did my Cloud Bread deflate quickly?

This is normal! Cloud Bread contains a lot of air and will naturally deflate as it cools. The structure is temporary by nature, which is part of what makes it special – it’s truly a “live in the moment” dessert.
Can I use a sugar substitute in this recipe?

Traditional granulated sugar helps stabilize the egg whites. While some bakers have had success with granulated sugar substitutes like erythritol, the texture may not be identical to the original. Liquid sweeteners won’t work as they’ll prevent proper whipping.
My egg whites won’t form stiff peaks. What went wrong?

Several factors could be at play: egg whites that are too cold, equipment with traces of fat or egg yolk, or not beating long enough. Make sure your bowl and beaters are completely clean, your egg whites are at room temperature, and you’re patient with the whipping process.

Final Thoughts

Cloud Bread is more than just a treat – it’s a little bit of culinary magic that brings joy to both the baker and those lucky enough to taste it. There’s something wonderfully satisfying about transforming simple egg whites into these pillowy, sweet clouds. While it may not be the most practical dessert due to its fleeting nature, that’s precisely what makes it special – it reminds us to enjoy the moment and appreciate simple pleasures. Give this recipe a try when you want to create something that will bring smiles and maybe even a little wonderment to your table!