If you’ve been searching for a delightful, low-carb alternative to traditional bread, this Cloud Bread Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Imagine a bread so light and airy that it practically floats on your tongue, with just the right touch of creaminess from cream cheese and a subtle hint of sweetness if you choose to add honey. Whether you’re gluten-free, keto, or just craving something unique, this recipe offers a simple way to create a bread that’s as soft as a cloud and versatile enough for almost any meal. Let me walk you through how easy and rewarding it is to make your own cloud bread at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What’s magical about this Cloud Bread Recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, each one plays an essential role in creating that perfect texture and flavor we love. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need and how each element brings something special to the table.
- 3 large eggs, separated: The beat egg whites provide the fluffiness while the yolks add richness and color.
- 3 oz (85g) cream cheese, softened: Adds a creamy texture that helps bind the bread and lends subtle tang.
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar: Stabilizes the egg whites so they whip to glorious stiff peaks that keep your bread lofty.
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional): A touch of natural sweetness to balance the savory elements.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Elevates all the flavors and enhances the overall taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder (optional): For those who want their cloud bread a bit fluffier and puffier.
How to Make Cloud Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper—it helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Getting this step right ensures a gentle heat that bakes your cloud bread evenly without browning too fast.
Step 2: Whip the Egg Whites to Stiff Peaks
In a clean, completely dry bowl, beat the egg whites with cream of tartar using an electric mixer until stiff peaks form. This typically takes 3-5 minutes. Those stiff peaks are the secret behind the bread’s airy, feather-light texture; stop whipping too soon and it won’t hold its shape properly.
Step 3: Mix the Egg Yolks and Cream Cheese
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, softened cream cheese, honey (if you’re using it), salt, and baking powder (if added). Whisk until the mixture is smooth and uniform. This velvety base infuses each cloud bread piece with richness and subtle flavor.
Step 4: Fold in the Whipped Egg Whites
Gently fold the fluffy egg whites into your yolk mixture carefully. Use a spatula to scoop from the bottom and fold over—the goal is to combine well without deflating the lightness you just whipped. This step is key to maintaining the bread’s signature cloud-like loft.
Step 5: Shape and Bake the Cloud Bread
Using a spoon or spatula, drop spoonfuls of the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, shaping them into rounds or ovals about 3 inches across. You’ll get about 6-8 perfect little clouds. Then, bake for 25-30 minutes until they turn golden brown and feel firm to the touch. If they brown too quickly, a loose foil cover will protect them.
Step 6: Cool Before Serving
Don’t rush this part—let your cloud bread cool completely on a wire rack. This resting step solidifies their soft structure so each bite feels light yet substantial, perfect for sandwiches or simply paired with your favorite toppings.
How to Serve Cloud Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Cloud bread is versatile when it comes to garnishing. Fresh herbs like dill or chives add a burst of color and fresh flavor, while a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning offers a fun twist on the classic. A light brush of melted butter or garlic-infused oil can also elevate these fluffy rounds into a tasty snack.
Side Dishes
Because cloud bread is so light and airy, it pairs beautifully with hearty dishes like soups and stews, soaking up broth without weighing you down. It’s also fantastic alongside fresh salads, charcuterie boards, or creamy dips, making your meals feel a little more special without heaviness.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling adventurous? Use this Cloud Bread Recipe as a base for mini sandwiches filled with smoked salmon and cream cheese or pile on avocado and radish slices for a fresh, healthful snack. You might also toast them lightly and layer with Nutella and sliced strawberries for a whimsical dessert bite that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you end up with leftovers, store your cloud bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Keeping them sealed helps maintain their delicate texture and prevents drying out, so they’re just as lovely when you return to them.
Freezing
Want to make this Cloud Bread Recipe ahead for a busy week? No problem! Wrap the cooled bread individually or stack with parchment paper in between and freeze in a sealed bag. Frozen cloud bread keeps beautifully for up to a month—ready whenever you need a quick bread substitute.
Reheating
To bring frozen or stored cloud bread back to life, warm them gently in a toaster oven or skillet for a few minutes. This warms the bread without making it tough, restoring softness and that melt-in-your-mouth quality that makes this bread so irresistible.
FAQs
Is cloud bread gluten-free?
Yes! One of the best things about this Cloud Bread Recipe is that it is naturally gluten-free since it contains no flour. It’s an excellent choice for those avoiding gluten or wheat altogether.
Can I omit the honey?
Absolutely. Honey is optional in this recipe and mainly adds a hint of sweetness. If you prefer a totally savory bread, feel free to leave it out without affecting the core texture.
What’s the best way to whip the egg whites?
Use a clean, dry bowl and beaters, and make sure there’s no yolk in the whites, as fat will prevent proper whipping. An electric mixer speeds up the process, but you can do it by hand if you’re patient.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese?
While cream cheese provides the signature richness, you can experiment with thick Greek yogurt as a substitute. Just be aware the texture may be slightly different, and you might need to adjust baking time.
Why is cream of tartar important in this recipe?
Cream of tartar helps stabilize the egg whites, allowing them to whip into stiff peaks that hold their shape during baking. It’s key for achieving that light, airy texture unique to cloud bread.
Final Thoughts
This Cloud Bread Recipe isn’t just a clever alternative to regular bread; it’s a delightful little cloud of softness and flavor that can make any meal feel special. Once you try it, you’ll appreciate the ease, the texture, and the endless possibilities it brings to your kitchen. So go ahead and give it a whirl—your taste buds are in for an unforgettable treat.
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Cloud Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Cloud Bread is a light, airy, and fluffy low-carb alternative to traditional bread, made primarily from eggs and cream cheese. This recipe produces 6 to 8 delicate bread rounds that are perfect for sandwiches or as a gluten-free bread substitute. With a hint of honey for subtle sweetness and optional additions like cream of tartar and baking powder for extra fluffiness, this easy-to-make bread is baked to a beautiful golden brown perfection.
Ingredients
Egg Mixture
- 3 large eggs, separated
- 3 oz (85g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder (optional, for fluffier bread)
Whipping Additive
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Beat Egg Whites: In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites with the cream of tartar using an electric mixer until stiff peaks form, about 3-5 minutes. This aerates the whites and provides lift for the bread.
- Combine Egg Yolks and Cream Cheese: In another bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, softened cream cheese, honey (if using), salt, and baking powder (if using) until mixture is smooth and fully combined, creating the base batter.
- Fold Mixtures: Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the egg yolk mixture carefully, so as not to deflate the egg whites, until fully incorporated and airy.
- Form the Bread Shapes: Using a spoon or spatula, drop spoonfuls of the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, shaping them into rounds or ovals about 3 inches in diameter. Aim for 6 to 8 pieces.
- Bake: Bake the cloud bread for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and firm to the touch. If browning too quickly, cover loosely with foil to prevent burning.
- Cool: Remove from oven and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before serving, which helps set their structure and texture.
Notes
- The optional honey adds a touch of sweetness but can be omitted to keep the bread savory.
- Using cream of tartar stabilizes the egg whites and helps them maintain volume for fluffier bread.
- Adding baking powder is optional but can enhance fluffiness and height of the bread.
- Ensure egg whites are beaten in a clean, grease-free bowl for best whipping results.
- Allow the bread to cool fully to firm up nicely and avoid crumbly texture.
- Cloud bread is best eaten fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for 1-2 days.
