Cloud Bread Recipe

Light as air, delightfully fluffy, and endlessly versatile—Cloud Bread is the kitchen’s best kept secret for anyone craving a low-carb, gluten-free alternative to traditional bread. Whether you’re tucking in slices with your morning coffee or building the world’s most whimsical sandwich, Cloud Bread brings a pillowy softness that’s impossible not to love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start whipping up a batch of Cloud Bread, take a moment to appreciate just how minimal (and magical!) the ingredient list truly is. Each component serves a crucial purpose in creating that airy crumb and irresistible golden top—so don’t skip or swap unless you’re feeling adventurous!

• 3 extra large eggs (room temperature): Separating the yolks and whites is the secret to the bread’s signature fluff; room temperature eggs whip up faster and get taller.
• ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar: This little pinch helps stabilize the egg whites, giving you those high, billowy peaks that make the bread so light.
• 3 tablespoons (1.5 oz) cream cheese, softened (or 3 tablespoons Greek yogurt): Cream cheese adds richness and structure, while Greek yogurt is a great tangy alternative for a lighter flavor.
• ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt: Just enough to bring out flavor and balance the richness—don’t leave it out!

Variations

The beauty of Cloud Bread is how much you can make it your own. Start with the basic recipe, then let your creativity—or dietary needs—guide you with these fun variations.

• Herbed Cloud Bread: Stir a teaspoon of chopped fresh chives, rosemary, or dill into the yolk mixture for a savory, aromatic twist that’s fantastic with eggs or smoked salmon.
• Cheesy Cloud Bread: Fold in a sprinkle of grated parmesan, asiago, or a pinch of cheddar before baking for irresistible flavor and a gorgeous golden top.
• Sweet Cloud Bread: Add a splash of vanilla extract and a teaspoon of your favorite sweetener to the yolks for a dessert version—delicious with berries and whipped cream!
• Dairy-Free Option: Swap the cream cheese for a thick, non-dairy yogurt to keep the bread fluffy and light without any dairy at all.

How to Make Cloud Bread

Step 1: Prep and Separate

Begin by gathering two clean, *completely dry* glass mixing bowls (seriously, even a speck of oil or water can deflate your whites!). Preheat your oven to 300°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure those delicate rounds don’t stick.

Step 2: Separate Eggs

Carefully crack each egg, letting the whites fall into one bowl and reserving the yolks in another. Double check—if you spot even a tiny bit of yolk in your whites, fish it out! The clean whites are essential for achieving those fluffy peaks that give Cloud Bread its name.

Step 3: Whip the Whites

Add cream of tartar to the egg whites. Using a handheld electric mixer, beat on high speed until stiff, glossy peaks form—about 3 minutes. The mixture should be able to stand tall without drooping when you lift the beaters.

Step 4: Mix the Yolks

Whisk the egg yolks together with softened cream cheese (or Greek yogurt) and kosher salt in the other bowl. The mixture should be smooth and creamy, with no visible lumps of cream cheese remaining.

Step 5: Gently Combine

Using a silicone spatula, gently fold the egg whites into the yolk mixture one cup at a time. Be patient and gentle—overmixing will knock out all that beautiful air! The batter should look like pillowy, airy clouds.

Step 6: Shape and Bake

Drop the mixture in six equal mounds onto your parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving at least 3-4 inches between each. Smooth the tops lightly with a spoon or spatula. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until golden brown and delicately puffed.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Let the Cloud Bread cool right on the pan for 5 to 10 minutes. They’ll firm up just enough to lift easily, but stay tender on the inside—perfect for immediate snacking or sandwich-building!

How to Serve Cloud Bread

Garnishes

For a pop of color and flavor, sprinkle warm Cloud Bread with everything bagel seasoning, fresh chives, or cracked black pepper. A light brush of melted butter or garlic oil right out of the oven transforms each round into an irresistible snack.

Side Dishes

Cloud Bread is the ideal sidekick to salads, soups, and cheese boards—its airy texture is especially good for scooping up avocado or dipping into warm soup. Try serving it alongside a leafy green salad or a small charcuterie platter to add something a little magical to your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Impress your guests (and yourself!) by building tiny club sandwiches, layered mini “pizzas” with tomato and mozzarella, or sweet breakfast stacks with whipped cream and fruit. You can even use a cookie cutter for fun shapes—Cloud Bread is kid-approved and party-ready!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once completely cool, layer Cloud Bread rounds between sheets of parchment in an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days, ready to grab for quick breakfasts or snack attacks.

Freezing

Cloud Bread freezes beautifully! Layer cooled rounds between parchment or wax paper in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature, and they’ll taste just as pillowy as the day you made them.

Reheating

For best results, reheat Cloud Bread briefly in a toaster oven or warm skillet—just a minute or two revives that light, toasty texture. Avoid the microwave for long stretches, since it can make the rounds a little too soft or rubbery.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re after a delicious, gluten-free bread swap or simply want to dazzle brunch guests with something airy and fun, Cloud Bread is your answer. Give it a try—I promise, once you taste that first fluffy bite, you’ll be hooked (and inspired to dream up all sorts of creative ways to serve it)!

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