Why did my cloud bread collapse?

The magic of cloud bread comes from those air bubbles trapped in the egg white mixture. If your bread collapsed quickly, you might not have whipped to stiff enough peaks, or perhaps your oven temperature was off. Make sure your egg whites form peaks that don't flop over before baking.

Can I make cloud bread without sugar?

While you can reduce the sugar somewhat, eliminating it completely isn't recommended. The sugar plays an important role in stabilizing the egg whites and helping with browning. If you need a sugar-free version, try a sugar substitute that's designed for baking.

Why is my cloud bread not forming stiff peaks?

This usually happens when there's a trace of fat or yolk in your egg whites, or if your bowl had residue. Even the tiniest bit of yolk can prevent proper whipping. Also, make sure you're using fresh eggs at room temperature for best results.

How do I know when my cloud bread is done baking?

Perfect cloud bread should have a slight golden color on the outside (or a golden version of whatever color you've added). It should feel dry to the touch and sound somewhat hollow when tapped gently. If you're unsure, give it another few minutes—overbaking is better than underbaking for this recipe.

Cloud Bread Recipe - LazyDayRecipes

Name: Cloud Bread Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: International
Ingredients: 4 Egg Whites, from large eggs; ⅓ cup Granulated Sugar; 1½ tablespoons Cornstarch; 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (optional) *See notes for using almond or lemon extract instead; A few drops of Food Coloring (optional)

This airy and delicate Cloud Bread is a delightful treat that’ll transform your kitchen into a bakery of wonders! With just a handful of ingredients, you can create these fluffy, cloud-like domes that are as fun to make as they are to eat. Perfect for when you want something special but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen, this recipe delivers a unique bread-like texture that’s sure to impress family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Incredibly Simple: With just four main ingredients, this recipe is surprisingly straightforward yet yields impressive results.
Versatile Flavor Options: Customize with different extracts or food coloring to match your mood or occasion.
Visually Stunning: These puffy bread domes look like they float on the plate—perfect for social media-worthy food photos!
Quick Preparation: From start to finish, you’ll have beautiful cloud bread in about an hour, with minimal hands-on time.
Fun Kitchen Project: Great activity to do with kids or as a conversation starter when entertaining guests.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Egg Whites: The foundation of cloud bread, providing structure and that signature airy texture. Make sure they’re at room temperature for maximum volume.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the bread and helps stabilize those beautiful peaks. The sugar also contributes to the delicate golden exterior when baked.
Cornstarch: The secret ingredient that gives your cloud bread stability and prevents it from deflating too quickly. It also creates that soft, bread-like bite.
Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the natural sweetness. This is optional but highly recommended for depth of flavor.
Food Coloring: Completely optional but transforms your cloud bread into a magical creation. Pastel colors work beautifully for this airy treat.

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

Want to customize your cloud bread? Here are some delicious options:

Flavor Twists

Citrus Cloud: Use lemon extract (just ¼ teaspoon) and add some fresh lemon zest for a bright, summery version.
Almond Joy: Substitute ½ teaspoon almond extract for the vanilla and sprinkle with sliced almonds before baking.
Cocoa Cloud: Add 1 tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder for a light chocolate version.

Visual Variations

Rainbow Cloud: Divide the mixture into smaller portions, color each differently, and swirl together gently before baking.
Ombré Effect: Color half the mixture and fold it partially into the white mixture for a gradient effect.
Speckled Cloud: Fold in some sprinkles or finely chopped freeze-dried fruit for colorful specks throughout.

How to Make Cloud Bread

Step 1: Prepare Your Kitchen

Preheat your oven to 300°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Make sure your mixing bowl is completely clean and free from any grease or residue.

Step 2: Whip the Egg Whites

In a large bowl, begin whisking the egg whites. Start slowly, then increase speed as they become frothy. Patience is key here—you want them bubbly and light before adding other ingredients.

Step 3: Add Remaining Ingredients

Once your egg whites are frothy, gradually add the sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract (if using). Continue whisking until the mixture forms stiff, glossy peaks that hold their shape. If you’re adding food coloring, now’s the time!

Step 4: Form Your Cloud Domes

Using a spatula, gently mound the mixture into two dome shapes on your prepared baking sheet. Take care to shape them into smooth, rounded mounds. Let them sit for 5-10 minutes before baking to help them set.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the outside has a slight golden hue (or takes on a golden version of whatever color you’ve added).

Pro Tips for Making Cloud Bread

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Clean Equipment Matters: Any trace of fat or grease in your bowl or on your beaters will prevent the egg whites from reaching stiff peaks.
Room Temperature Egg Whites: They’ll whip up better and create more volume than cold ones straight from the refrigerator.
Patience with Whipping: Don’t rush the whipping process. Those perfect stiff peaks are essential for the bread’s structure.
Gentle Handling: When forming your domes, be gentle to preserve the air bubbles you’ve worked so hard to create.
Watch, Don’t Time: Every oven is different, so start checking at 25 minutes but be prepared to give them more time if needed.

How to Serve

Cloud bread is at its absolute best when served fresh from the oven. Here are some serving ideas:

Sweet Serving Options

Dust with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness
Serve with fresh berries and a dollop of whipped cream for a light dessert
Drizzle with honey or maple syrup for a simple breakfast treat

Savory Options

Though typically enjoyed as a sweet treat, you can reduce the sugar and add herbs for a different take
Split in half and use as a unique “bun” for a small sandwich
Serve alongside a fruit and cheese platter as an interesting conversation piece

Make Ahead and Storage

Serving Time

For the best experience, serve your cloud bread immediately after it has cooled slightly from the oven. This is when the texture is at its magnificent best—airy, slightly crisp on the outside, and soft inside.

Storing Leftovers

I’m going to be straight with you—cloud bread doesn’t store well. The air-filled structure will begin to collapse within about an hour of baking. If you must store it, keep it at room temperature in an open container to prevent condensation from making it soggy, but be prepared for a dramatic texture change.

Freezing

This is one recipe that simply doesn’t freeze well. The delicate structure will collapse completely upon thawing, resulting in a flat, rubbery texture. Cloud bread is truly a “live in the moment” treat!

FAQs

Why did my cloud bread collapse?

The magic of cloud bread comes from those air bubbles trapped in the egg white mixture. If your bread collapsed quickly, you might not have whipped to stiff enough peaks, or perhaps your oven temperature was off. Make sure your egg whites form peaks that don’t flop over before baking.
Can I make cloud bread without sugar?

While you can reduce the sugar somewhat, eliminating it completely isn’t recommended. The sugar plays an important role in stabilizing the egg whites and helping with browning. If you need a sugar-free version, try a sugar substitute that’s designed for baking.
Why is my cloud bread not forming stiff peaks?

This usually happens when there’s a trace of fat or yolk in your egg whites, or if your bowl had residue. Even the tiniest bit of yolk can prevent proper whipping. Also, make sure you’re using fresh eggs at room temperature for best results.
How do I know when my cloud bread is done baking?

Perfect cloud bread should have a slight golden color on the outside (or a golden version of whatever color you’ve added). It should feel dry to the touch and sound somewhat hollow when tapped gently. If you’re unsure, give it another few minutes—overbaking is better than underbaking for this recipe.

Final Thoughts

Cloud Bread is one of those magical recipes that brings delight to both the baker and those lucky enough to enjoy it. There’s something wonderfully satisfying about transforming simple egg whites into these pillowy, cloud-like creations. While they may be ephemeral—here for a moment, then gone—that’s part of their charm. Like actual clouds passing overhead, their temporary nature reminds us to enjoy life’s simple pleasures right now. So gather your few ingredients, preheat that oven, and prepare for a kitchen adventure that’s sure to bring smiles all around!