admin1 Cloud Cake is a wonderfully light and airy dessert that lives up to its name. With its soft texture, delicate sweetness, and fluffy crumb, this cake practically melts in your mouth. Made with simple pantry ingredients and whipped egg whites for lift, Cloud Cake is perfect for those who love desserts that feel elegant without being overly rich.
Whether served plain with a dusting of powdered sugar, topped with fresh berries, or layered with whipped cream, this versatile cake is ideal for birthdays, afternoon tea, brunch gatherings, or any occasion that calls for a light and beautiful dessert.
Unlike dense butter cakes, Cloud Cake relies on whipped egg whites to create its signature airy texture, resulting in a dessert that feels almost weightless while still being incredibly satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Cloud Cake
- Exceptionally light and fluffy
- Simple ingredients
- Beautiful delicate texture
- Perfect for any occasion
- Not overly sweet
- Easy to customize
- Pairs wonderfully with fruit
- Elegant presentation
Prep Time, Bake Time & Servings
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Bake Time: 30–35 minutes
- Cooling Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: About 2 hours
- Servings: 10–12 slices
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 6 large eggs, separated
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar, divided
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- ½ cup (120ml) whole milk
- ¼ cup (60ml) vegetable oil
- 1 cup (125g) cake flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon cream of tartar
Optional Toppings
- Powdered sugar
- Fresh berries
- Whipped cream
- Lemon zest
- Berry compote
Equipment Needed
- Two mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Fine mesh sieve
- 8-inch or 9-inch round cake pan
- Rubber spatula
- Cooling rack
Baking Temperature
Oven Temperature
325°F (165°C)
This moderate temperature allows the cake to rise gradually and maintain its delicate texture.
How to Make Cloud Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to:
325°F (165°C)
Lightly grease and line the bottom of a round cake pan with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a bowl whisk together:
- Cake flour
- Baking powder
- Salt
Set aside.
Step 3: Mix Egg Yolks
In a separate bowl beat:
- Egg yolks
- ½ cup sugar
for about:
2–3 minutes
until pale and creamy.
Add:
- Vanilla extract
- Almond extract (if using)
- Milk
- Oil
Mix until smooth.
Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients
Gradually fold the flour mixture into the yolk mixture.
Mix until just combined.
Do not overmix.
Step 5: Whip Egg Whites
In a clean bowl add:
- Egg whites
- Cream of tartar
Beat until soft peaks form.
Gradually add remaining:
½ cup sugar
Continue beating until stiff glossy peaks form.
Step 6: Fold the Batter
Gently fold one-third of the whipped egg whites into the yolk mixture.
Then fold in the remaining whites in two additions.
Use slow, gentle motions to preserve air.
The batter should remain light and fluffy.
Step 7: Fill the Pan
Pour batter into the prepared cake pan.
Gently smooth the top.
Tap the pan lightly once or twice to remove large air bubbles.
Step 8: Bake
Bake at:
325°F (165°C) for 30–35 minutes
The cake is done when:
- Top is lightly golden
- Center springs back when touched
- Toothpick comes out clean
Internal Temperature
Approximately:
205°F (96°C)
Step 9: Cool Completely
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for:
10 minutes
Then transfer to a cooling rack.
Cool completely before decorating.
Tips for a Perfect Cloud Cake
Use Room Temperature Eggs
Egg whites whip more easily and achieve greater volume.
Clean Mixing Bowl
Any grease can prevent egg whites from whipping properly.
Fold Gently
Overmixing will deflate the batter.
Measure Flour Correctly
Too much flour can make the cake dense.
Avoid Opening the Oven
Keep the oven door closed during baking to prevent collapse.
Flavor Variations
Lemon Cloud Cake
Add:
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Strawberry Cloud Cake
Serve with:
- Fresh strawberries
- Strawberry sauce
Coconut Cloud Cake
Add:
- ½ teaspoon coconut extract
and top with toasted coconut.
Chocolate Cloud Cake
Fold in:
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
for a light chocolate version.
Berry Cloud Cake
Layer with:
- Whipped cream
- Mixed berries
for a stunning celebration cake.
Storage Instructions
Room Temperature
Store covered for:
1–2 days
Refrigerator
Store for:
4–5 days
Freezer
Wrap tightly and freeze for:
Up to 2 months
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Nutrition Information
Per Slice (Approximate)
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 120mg
Values vary depending on ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it called Cloud Cake?
Its incredibly airy, soft texture resembles a fluffy cloud.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes. Bake the cake a day in advance and decorate before serving.
Why did my cake sink?
Overmixing or underbaking can cause the cake to collapse.
Can I use all-purpose flour?
Yes, though cake flour produces the softest texture.
Do I need cream of tartar?
It helps stabilize the egg whites but can be replaced with a few drops of lemon juice.
Serving Suggestions
Cloud Cake pairs beautifully with:
- Fresh berries
- Whipped cream
- Lemon curd
- Fruit compote
- Vanilla ice cream
- Tea or coffee
For an elegant presentation, dust the top with powdered sugar and garnish with seasonal fruit.
