10 Steps to the Best Cloud Cake Recipe You'll Love

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Have you ever dreamed of biting into a cake so light and airy it feels like a cloud? Well, your dream is about to become a reality! This cloud cake recipe will guide you through the steps to create a truly ethereal dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s the delicate texture that sets this cake apart, making each bite a delightful, almost weightless experience.

Table of Contents

What Makes a Cake a “Cloud Cake”?

The term “cloud cake” refers to cakes that are characterized by their exceptionally light, airy, and fluffy texture. Unlike denser cakes, cloud cakes prioritize a delicate crumb and often rely heavily on whipped egg whites for their structure. They are typically less rich and sweet than other types of cakes, making them a wonderful, light dessert option. Sometimes this style of cake is referred to as Angel Food Cake.

Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Cloud Cake Recipe

Creating a truly cloud-like cake depends on a careful balance of ingredients. A common question people have is: “What are the 5 main ingredients in cake?” While the basic answer is flour, sugar, eggs, fat, and a leavening agent, when it comes to a cloud cake, we need to get a bit more specific. Our recipe focuses on the power of egg whites and minimizes the richness found in other cakes. Here’s what you’ll need:

Egg Whites: The star of the show! They provide the structure and airy texture.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps stabilize the egg whites.
Cake Flour: Lower in protein than all-purpose flour, it helps create a tender crumb.
Cream of Tartar: Stabilizes the egg whites, helping them reach their maximum volume.
Vanilla Extract: Adds a subtle flavor enhancement.
Pinch of Salt: Balances the sweetness.

Each of these ingredients plays a vital role, and the absence of fat (like butter or oil) is what truly sets this cake apart. By carefully combining these elements, we unlock the secret to that perfect, cloud-like texture.

The Ultimate Cloud Cake Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s the recipe you’ve been waiting for – follow these steps carefully for the most incredible cloud cake:

Step 1: Preparing the Batter

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). If you are using an Angel food cake pan or similar, make sure to leave it ungreased.
In a large, clean mixing bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups of sifted cake flour and 1 cup of granulated sugar.
In a separate, immaculately clean bowl, beat 10 large egg whites with 1/2 teaspoon of cream of tartar and a pinch of salt using an electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form.
Gradually add the remaining 1 cup of granulated sugar, beating on high speed until stiff, glossy peaks form. Be careful not to over-beat.
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg white mixture in three additions, being careful not to deflate the egg whites. Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract during this step.

Step 2: Baking the Cake

Pour the batter into your ungreased angel food cake pan (or a 9-10 inch springform pan). If using a springform pan, you may want to line the bottom with parchment paper.
Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cake springs back lightly when touched. If using a springform pan, insert a toothpick, if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
For angel food cake pan, immediately invert the pan onto a wire rack, supporting it with the pan’s legs. For other pans, remove cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 mins, then invert onto a wire rack.

Step 3: Cooling and Serving

Let the cake cool completely before removing from the pan. (Angel food cake can be left upside down during the cooling time)
Once cooled, carefully remove the cake from the pan.

How to Achieve the Perfect Cloud-Like Texture

Mastering the technique for a cloud cake is just as important as the recipe. Here are a few tips:

Immaculate Mixing Bowl: Make sure your bowl and beaters are completely clean and free from any trace of fat, as this can prevent the egg whites from whipping up properly.
Proper Whipping: The egg whites need to be whipped to stiff, glossy peaks, but be careful not to over-beat them, as they can become dry and less stable.
Gentle Folding: When combining the dry ingredients with the egg whites, use a gentle folding motion to avoid deflating the mixture.
Don’t Underbake: The cake must be fully baked to maintain its structure, so make sure that a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Variations and Flavor Additions

While the classic cloud cake is delicious on its own, you can easily customize it:

Flavor Enhancements: Add 1 teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the batter for a citrusy twist. Or, 1/2 tsp of almond extract for a richer flavor.
Toppings: Top the cake with a light glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice, or dust it with powdered sugar alone. Fresh berries and a dollop of whipped cream make a perfect pairing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cloud Cake

Let’s answer some common questions we receive:

How do you make clouds for a cake?

While you can’t create actual clouds, a cloud cake gets its name because of its airy and light texture, similar to the feeling you’d get if you were to eat a cloud! The texture is the focus of this recipe and achieved through properly whipping egg whites.

How long do cloud cakes last?

Cloud cakes are best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the cake may lose some of its airy texture the longer it is stored, particularly if it has any cream-based frostings.

What is angel cake made of?

Angel food cake is a type of cloud cake. It’s typically made with egg whites, sugar, and flour, and it often uses cream of tartar to stabilize the egg whites, which helps create that super-light texture. Our recipe is similar, but may differ slightly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your light-as-air cloud cake in a variety of ways. Enjoy it with a dusting of powdered sugar, a light lemon glaze, or fresh berries and whipped cream. Its versatility makes it the perfect choice for any gathering, from casual brunch to elegant dinner parties.

Conclusion

This cloud cake recipe is your ticket to creating a truly memorable dessert. Its light, airy texture and simple ingredients make it a joy to bake and a delight to eat. Follow our recipe, take your time, and you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful cake that’s as light as a cloud.

Ready to make your own light-as-air Cloud Cake? Get the recipe and let us know how it turns out in the comments below!

Cloud Cake

Craving a fresh, flavorful, and wholesome meal? This Cloud Cake is perfect for a quick lunch, light dinner, or even a party appetizer! Packed with large eggs, separated, it’s comfort food with a healthy twist. Whether you’re meal prepping or feeding a crowd, this dish is sure to please. Ready in 20 minutes and loaded with nutrients, it’s a must-try!

20 min

Prep Time

35 min

Cook Time

Servings

Ingredients

4 large eggs, separated

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 cup cake flour

Pinch of salt

Whipped cream and fresh berries for topping (optional)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch springform pan.

In a large bowl, beat egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form.

Gradually add sugar, beating until glossy.

In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks with vanilla extract.

Gently fold the egg yolks into the egg whites.

Sift cake flour over the batter and fold in until just combined.

Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Let cool completely before removing from the pan.

Serve with whipped cream and fresh berries, if desired.

Nutrition Information

150

Calories

Protein (g)

Fiber (g)