Cloud Bread Recipe: 7 Easy Steps for a Fluffy, Low-Carb Treat!

Have you ever wondered if it’s possible to enjoy bread while cutting carbs? The internet-famous cloud bread might seem too good to be true—but is this fluffy, pillowy alternative actually worth the hype or just another disappointing substitute?

This cloud bread recipe has taken social media by storm, and for good reason. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a deliciously light, airy bread alternative that contains a fraction of the carbs found in traditional bread. Perfect for those following keto, low-carb, or gluten-free diets!

Whether you’re looking to reduce your carb intake or simply curious about this trendy recipe, I’ll guide you through creating perfect cloud bread every time. Let’s dive into this game-changing recipe that might just revolutionize your sandwich game.

Ingredients List

The beauty of this cloud bread recipe lies in its simplicity. You’ll need just a few kitchen staples to create these pillowy delights:

• 3 large eggs, separated (room temperature works best)
• 3 tablespoons cream cheese, softened (full-fat yields the best texture)
• ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar (crucial for stability)
• 1 tablespoon honey or sugar substitute (optional for slight sweetness)
• ¼ teaspoon salt (to enhance flavor)
• Optional herbs or seasonings: garlic powder, dried herbs, everything bagel seasoning

Substitution options: Greek yogurt or cottage cheese can replace cream cheese for a different flavor profile. No cream of tartar? A few drops of lemon juice or white vinegar will help stabilize your egg whites.

Timing

• Preparation time: 15 minutes to separate eggs, whip whites, and fold in yolk mixture
• Cooking time: 25-30 minutes (including cooling time in the oven)
• Total time: 40-45 minutes, which is approximately 30% faster than making traditional yeast bread that requires rising time. This quick turnaround makes cloud bread perfect for satisfying sudden bread cravings without the long wait.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these carefully crafted steps to achieve cloud bread perfection. The key to success lies in properly whipping your egg whites and gently folding in the other ingredients.

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Trace 6-8 circles (about 4 inches in diameter) on the parchment paper as guides for your cloud bread. Flip the parchment paper over so the pencil marks don’t touch your food.

Pro tip: Make sure your mixing bowls and beaters are completely free of grease or water droplets, as these can prevent egg whites from whipping properly.

Step 2: Separate Eggs Carefully

Separate your eggs, placing the whites in a large, clean mixing bowl and the yolks in a separate medium bowl. Even a tiny bit of yolk can prevent the whites from forming stiff peaks, so separate each egg in a small bowl first before adding to your main bowl.

Temperature hack: Room temperature eggs separate more easily and whites whip better. If your eggs are cold, place them in warm water for 5 minutes before separating.

Step 3: Prepare the Yolk Mixture

Add the softened cream cheese, optional sweetener, and any desired seasonings to the egg yolks. Beat until smooth and no cream cheese lumps remain. The mixture should be pale yellow and have a smooth, creamy consistency.

Time-saving tip: Soften cream cheese quickly by cutting it into small cubes and microwaving for 10-15 seconds. This prevents overheating while ensuring it blends seamlessly.

Step 4: Whip the Egg Whites

Add cream of tartar to the egg whites and beat on medium speed until foamy. Increase to high speed and continue beating until stiff, glossy peaks form. This typically takes 3-5 minutes. The whites should be so firm that they don’t slide when you turn the bowl upside down.

Visual cue: Perfect stiff peaks will hold their shape completely when you lift the beaters, with the tips standing straight up or curling just slightly at the very end.

Step 5: Combine the Mixtures

Gently fold the yolk mixture into the whipped egg whites using a rubber spatula. Use a bottom-to-top folding motion, turning the bowl as you go. Work slowly and carefully to maintain as much air as possible in the whites.

Technique tip: Stop folding when the mixture is just combined with a few small streaks remaining. Overmixing will deflate your batter and result in flat cloud bread.

Step 6: Form and Bake

Spoon the mixture onto your prepared baking sheet, creating 6-8 rounds using your traced circles as guides. Gently shape them with the back of your spoon, creating slight indentations in the centers for more even baking.

Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. The cloud bread recipe should be firm to the touch and not sticky.

Step 7: Cool Properly

Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cloud bread cool inside for 5-10 minutes. This gradual cooling helps prevent excessive deflation. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before storing.

Patience pays off: Though it’s tempting to eat immediately, the texture improves after cooling fully, becoming more bread-like and less eggy.

Nutritional Information

Each piece of cloud bread (recipe makes 6-8 pieces) contains approximately:

• Calories: 40-45 per piece
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 3g
• Carbohydrates: Less than 1g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 0.5g (if using sweetener)
• Sodium: 80mg

Cloud bread contains approximately 95% fewer carbohydrates than traditional white bread, making it an excellent option for those monitoring carb intake. The high protein content (primarily from eggs) also makes it more satiating than many other bread alternatives on the market.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

While the basic cloud bread recipe is already quite healthy, here are some modifications to suit various dietary needs:

• Dairy-free version: Replace cream cheese with dairy-free cream cheese alternative or 3 tablespoons of coconut cream mixed with ½ teaspoon lemon juice.
• Higher protein version: Add 1 tablespoon of unflavored protein powder to the yolk mixture for an extra protein boost.
• Flavor-boosted version: Incorporate 2 tablespoons of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor and B-vitamin boost without additional dairy.
• Omega-3 enhanced: Add 1 teaspoon of ground flaxseed to the yolk mixture for healthy fats and a slight nutty flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Cloud bread’s versatility makes it perfect for countless meal ideas:

• Breakfast: Top with avocado and a poached egg for a low-carb breakfast stack, or use as the base for a smoked salmon and cream cheese open-faced sandwich.
• Lunch: Create mini pizzas by topping with sugar-free marinara, cheese, and your favorite toppings, then broiling until bubbly.
• Dinner: Use as a side with soups and stews instead of traditional bread, or create a cloud bread garlic toast by brushing with olive oil, garlic, and herbs before toasting.
• Snacks: Spread with nut butter and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a satisfying protein-rich snack that won’t spike blood sugar levels.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Undermixing egg whites: Whites must reach stiff peaks to create the proper structure. If too soft, your bread will flatten during baking.
• Overmixing when combining: Fold gently rather than stirring vigorously to preserve air bubbles. Studies show that overmixing can reduce volume by up to 50%.
• Incorrect oven temperature: Too hot and the outside burns before the inside sets; too cool and they’ll never properly firm up.
• Opening the oven door: This causes temperature fluctuations that can make your cloud bread collapse. Resist peeking until at least 20 minutes into baking.
• Skipping the cream of tartar: This ingredient stabilizes egg whites, and without it, your cloud bread may deflate significantly.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Cloud bread is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for later use:

• Room temperature: Store in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers for up to 24 hours. The texture will become slightly more firm and bread-like.
• Refrigerator: Place in a sealed container with parchment paper between layers for up to 3 days. Allow to come to room temperature before serving for best texture.
• Freezer: Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag with parchment between pieces. Stores for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature or lightly toast to refresh.
• Refresh technique: To revive cloud bread that’s lost its texture, place in a toaster oven on low heat for 1-2 minutes. This restores some of the original crisp exterior and soft interior.

Conclusion

This cloud bread recipe offers a delicious way to enjoy bread-like texture and versatility without the carb overload. Its simple ingredients, straightforward preparation, and impressive nutritional profile make it a standout option for anyone watching their carb intake or exploring gluten-free alternatives.

Have you tried making cloud bread yet? I’d love to hear about your experience in the comments below! Share your favorite toppings, flavor variations, or any tips you’ve discovered along the way. And if you’re looking for more low-carb alternatives to your favorite foods, subscribe to our newsletter for weekly recipe inspiration delivered straight to your inbox!