Cloud Bread

Cloud bread has quickly become a popular choice for those looking for a light, fluffy, and low-carb bread alternative. With its soft texture and slightly crispy exterior, cloud bread is perfect for sandwiches or enjoying on its own. This recipe is incredibly simple and quick to make, with just a few ingredients. Whether you’re following a keto, gluten-free, or low-carb diet, cloud bread is a delicious treat that doesn’t compromise on taste or texture.

Ingredients

• 3 extra-large eggs (room temperature)
• ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar
• 3 tablespoons (1.5 oz) cream cheese (softened, or 3 tablespoons Greek yogurt)
• ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt

Instructions

1. Prepare the Glass Bowls: Begin by preparing two medium-sized glass mixing bowls. It’s essential that the bowls are completely clean—no soap or residue should remain. Any small amount of residue can prevent the egg whites from forming stiff peaks. This step is crucial to ensure your cloud bread bakes properly.
2. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 300°F (150°C) to ensure it’s at the correct temperature when the dough is ready.
3. Line the Baking Sheet: Place a piece of parchment paper on a baking sheet. This helps prevent sticking and makes for easy cleanup after baking.
4. Separate the Eggs: Carefully separate the egg whites from the yolks, placing them into two separate bowls. Be cautious not to let any egg yolk mix with the whites, as this will prevent the egg whites from whipping up properly.
5. Add Cream of Tartar to Egg Whites: Add the cream of tartar to the egg whites, which will help stabilize them when whipping.
6. Whip the Egg Whites: Using an electric handheld mixer, whip the egg whites on high speed for about 3 minutes, or until stiff peaks form. The egg whites should look glossy and hold their shape.
7. Whisk the Egg Yolk Mixture: In the second bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, kosher salt, and softened cream cheese until smooth. Ensure there are no lumps of cream cheese.
8. Fold in the Egg Whites: Using a silicone spatula, gently fold the whipped egg whites into the egg yolk mixture. Add the whites one cup at a time, folding carefully to maintain the airy texture of the whites.
9. Form Mounds on the Baking Sheet: Spoon the cloud bread mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, dividing it into 6 mounds. Space each mound at least 3-4 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
10. Bake the Cloud Bread: Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until the tops are golden brown.
11. Cool the Cloud Bread: Once done, remove the cloud bread from the oven and let it rest and cool on the baking sheet for 5 to 10 minutes. This step allows the bread to firm up and makes it easier to handle.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Tips:

1. Sandwich Base: Cloud bread is a fantastic substitute for traditional bread, making it perfect for low-carb sandwiches. Add your favorite fillings like turkey, cheese, or avocado for a satisfying meal.
2. Toast It: For a little extra crunch, try toasting cloud bread in a skillet or toaster. It adds a delightful texture while maintaining its lightness.
3. Serve with Dips: Cloud bread pairs wonderfully with dips like hummus, guacamole, or a creamy cheese spread. It makes for an excellent appetizer or snack.
4. Breakfast Option: Top your cloud bread with scrambled eggs, bacon, or a drizzle of honey for a delicious breakfast or brunch option.
5. Use as a Bun: Cloud bread can also be used as a bun for burgers, especially for those following a low-carb or gluten-free lifestyle.

Storage Tips:

1. Room Temperature: Cloud bread is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store it at room temperature for up to 1-2 days in an airtight container. To keep it soft, wrap the bread in parchment paper or place a paper towel inside the container to absorb any moisture.
2. Refrigeration: For longer storage, place cloud bread in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days. Reheat it gently in the oven or a toaster to restore its soft texture.
3. Freezing: If you want to keep cloud bread for an extended period, freeze it. Place the pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven for a few minutes.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your cloud bread for days, whether fresh or stored for later use!

Variations

Cloud bread is highly versatile, allowing you to experiment with various flavors and ingredients to suit your taste. Here are some delicious variations to consider:

1. Herb-Infused Cloud Bread Add a touch of savory flavor by mixing in dried herbs such as rosemary, thyme, oregano, or basil into the egg yolk mixture before folding in the egg whites. This variation gives your cloud bread an aromatic twist, making it a perfect accompaniment to soups or salads.

2. Garlic Parmesan Cloud Bread For a rich, savory version, mix in 1-2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese and a teaspoon of garlic powder into the egg yolk mixture. This variation is great as a side for pasta dishes or served with marinara sauce for dipping.

3. Sweet Cloud Bread For a sweeter twist, add 1-2 tablespoons of sweetener such as erythritol, stevia, or monk fruit to the egg yolk mixture. You can also add a dash of cinnamon or vanilla extract for extra flavor. Serve this version as a dessert bread or enjoy it with fruit and whipped cream.

4. Cheddar Cloud Bread If you love cheesy bread, fold in 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the egg yolk mixture. This savory option is perfect for making low-carb sandwiches or pairing with a hearty soup.

5. Bacon Cloud Bread Add crumbled cooked bacon to the egg yolk mixture for a smoky and savory flavor. This variation is a perfect breakfast bread or can be used for a low-carb bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich.

6. Spice-Infused Cloud Bread For a bit of heat, mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder into the egg yolk mixture. This spicy version pairs wonderfully with avocado and is an excellent side for Mexican or Tex-Mex dishes.

7. Cinnamon Sugar Cloud Bread For a sweet, dessert-style variation, sprinkle a little cinnamon and sugar over the top of the cloud bread before baking. This gives the bread a sweet, golden crust, making it perfect for breakfast or a light snack.

8. Flaxseed Cloud Bread For an added boost of fiber, mix in 1-2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed to the egg yolk mixture. Flaxseeds add a subtle nutty flavor and extra nutrients, making this variation both tasty and healthy.

9. Spinach and Feta Cloud Bread For a Mediterranean-inspired twist, fold in finely chopped spinach and crumbled feta cheese into the egg yolk mixture. This savory variation is perfect for serving alongside grilled chicken or as part of a light lunch.

By experimenting with these variations, you can create different flavors of cloud bread to suit any meal or occasion!

FAQs

1. What is cloud bread?
Cloud bread is a light, fluffy, low-carb alternative to traditional bread. It’s made primarily with eggs, cream cheese (or Greek yogurt), and cream of tartar, making it a popular choice for those following keto, gluten-free, or low-carb diets.

2. Can I use a hand mixer to make cloud bread?
Yes, a hand mixer is perfect for whipping the egg whites into stiff peaks. Using an electric hand mixer will give you the best results and save time. Be sure to whip the egg whites on high for about 3 minutes until they form stiff peaks.

3. Can I make cloud bread without cream of tartar?
Cream of tartar helps stabilize the egg whites, but if you don’t have it, you can use a small amount of lemon juice or white vinegar as a substitute. Around 1/2 teaspoon of either should work in place of the cream of tartar.

4. Can I freeze cloud bread?
Yes, cloud bread freezes well. Place it in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer the bread to a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to a month. To reheat, thaw it at room temperature or warm it in the oven for a few minutes.

5. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese?
Yes, Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for cream cheese in cloud bread. Use the same amount—3 tablespoons—and make sure the yogurt is well-mixed to achieve a smooth consistency with the egg yolks.

6. How long does cloud bread last?
Cloud bread is best when fresh, but you can store it in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to 5 days. If you want to keep it even longer, freezing is an option.

7. Why isn’t my cloud bread rising properly?
Ensure that your egg whites are whipped to stiff peaks and that no egg yolk has mixed with them. Additionally, your mixing bowls should be completely clean, as any residue or oils can prevent the egg whites from forming properly.

8. Can I use almond flour or coconut flour in cloud bread?
Cloud bread recipes do not require flour, but adding almond or coconut flour could affect the texture and rise. If you wish to experiment with adding these flours, use a very small amount and adjust the egg whites accordingly.

9. How can I make cloud bread crispy?
To get a crispy texture, bake the cloud bread a little longer (check every 5 minutes after 25 minutes). You can also toast the bread after baking to get a nice crispness. Just be careful not to overcook it, as it may become too dry.

10. Can I use cloud bread for sandwiches?
Yes, cloud bread is a great low-carb alternative to traditional bread for sandwiches. Its light texture makes it perfect for filling with your favorite ingredients, such as deli meats, vegetables, cheese, and spreads.

These FAQs should help answer some of the most common questions about cloud bread and make your baking experience even easier!

Cloud bread is a simple yet delightful recipe that’s perfect for anyone following a low-carb, keto, or gluten-free diet. Its light and airy texture makes it versatile for a variety of dishes, whether as a sandwich base or a quick snack. The best part? It only takes a few ingredients and minimal prep time to make this heavenly bread at home. So, enjoy your fresh batch of cloud bread and share it with friends or family—it’s sure to be a hit!

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