Cloud Cake – recipesshubb

Cloud Cake (Ultra-Light, Fluffy, and Heavenly)

A Cloud Cake is exactly what it sounds like: soft, airy, and so light it almost melts in your mouth. Think of it as a cross between a chiffon cake and a sponge cake, with a tender crumb that practically floats. Perfect for birthdays, tea time, or any celebration where you want a show-stopping dessert that isn’t overly heavy.

This recipe emphasizes gentle folding and precise baking to maintain the cake’s airy texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Super light and fluffy
Soft crumb that stays moist
Slightly sweet, delicate flavor
Can be layered or topped with fruit, whipped cream, or glaze
Beginner-friendly with step-by-step guidance

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Bake Time: 30–35 minutes
Cooling Time: 15 minutes
Oven Temperature: 350°F (175°C)
Yield: 8–10 servings (8-inch cake)
Difficulty Level: Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
4 large eggs, separated
1 cup granulated sugar, divided (¾ cup for egg whites, ¼ cup for yolks)
¼ cup milk
¼ cup vegetable oil or melted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon cream of tartar (optional, helps stabilize egg whites)

Optional Toppings

Powdered sugar for dusting
Fresh berries
Whipped cream

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides. This ensures the cake rises evenly and releases easily.

Step 2: Sift Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, and salt. Sifting adds air, contributing to the cake’s light texture.

Step 3: Whisk Egg Yolks

In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks, ¼ cup sugar, milk, oil, and vanilla extract until smooth and slightly pale. Set aside.

Step 4: Beat Egg Whites

In a clean, dry bowl, beat egg whites (with cream of tartar, if using) on medium speed until soft peaks form. Gradually add ¾ cup sugar, continuing to beat until stiff, glossy peaks form. Properly beaten egg whites are key for a fluffy cloud-like texture.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gently fold the egg yolk mixture into the dry ingredients until mostly combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Fold in Egg Whites

Gently fold 1/3 of the beaten egg whites into the batter to lighten it. Then fold in the remaining whites in two additions, using a spatula and a gentle cutting-and-folding motion. This keeps as much air in the batter as possible.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top gently. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Tip: Avoid opening the oven during the first 20 minutes to prevent the cake from collapsing.

Step 8: Cool the Cake

Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes. Then run a knife around the edges, remove it from the pan, and place it on a wire rack to cool completely.

Cloud cakes are best served fully cooled, as cutting too early can compress the airy texture.

Tips for a Perfect Cloud Cake

Room Temperature Eggs: They whip better and give more volume.
Gently Fold: Folding too aggressively deflates the batter.
Proper Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is preheated to 350°F (175°C) for even rising.
Optional Flavors: Add lemon zest, almond extract, or cocoa powder for variety.
Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 1–2 days, or refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Serving Suggestions

Dust with powdered sugar for a simple presentation
Layer with whipped cream and fresh berries for a light cake dessert
Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce for extra indulgence
Serve with tea or coffee for an elegant snack

Final Thoughts

This Cloud Cake is a delicate, airy dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With careful folding of egg whites and proper baking, you get a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s impressive yet easy to make. It’s versatile, light, and pairs wonderfully with fruit, cream, or a simple dusting of sugar.