Save The first time I made cloud bread, I stared at the oven door for twenty solid minutes, convinced something had gone wrong. The batter looked impossibly light, almost like I was about to bake nothingness. But when those golden rounds emerged, puffy and smelling of garlic and cheese, I understood the magic. Now it is my go-to when I want something bread-like without the heavy feeling that follows.
Last winter, my sister came over for soup and seemed skeptical when I brought out these toasts instead of crusty bread. She took one bite, eyes went wide, and asked if I could make a batch for her to take home. That is when I knew this was not just another low carb compromise recipe.
Ingredients
- 3 large eggs, separated: Room temperature eggs whip up better and give you that signature cloud-like rise
- ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar: The secret weapon that keeps your egg whites stable and prevents them from collapsing
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds savory depth and helps the structure hold together after cooling
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened: Creates richness in the yolk mixture and balances the airy whites
- 1 garlic clove, minced: Fresh garlic gives you that aromatic punch that powdered garlic never achieves
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives: Mild onion flavor that brightens the whole toast
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley: Adds color and a fresh, herbal note
- ¼ teaspoon dried oregano: Earthy background flavor that makes these feel like real bread
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Essential to bring all the flavors forward
- ⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Just enough warmth to wake up your palate
Instructions
- Get everything ready first:
- Preheat your oven to 300°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper, because once you start folding, you need to move fast
- Whip the whites:
- In a completely clean and dry bowl, beat the egg whites with cream of tartar until stiff peaks form—you should be able to turn the bowl upside down without anything moving
- Make the flavor base:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the yolks, cream cheese, Parmesan, garlic, all the herbs, salt, and pepper until completely smooth
- The gentle fold:
- Add one third of the egg whites to the yolk mixture and fold gently, then repeat twice more until no white streaks remain, taking care not to deflate the batter
- Shape and bake:
- Spoon the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in six even rounds, about ½ inch thick, and bake for 25 minutes until golden brown and set
- Timing matters:
- Let them cool for just a few minutes on the pan before serving, but eat them warm for the absolute best texture
Save These have become my Saturday morning staple now. I sit by the window with coffee and warm cloud bread, watching the neighborhood wake up, and somehow the morning feels lighter.
Getting The Texture Right
The difference between decent cloud bread and incredible cloud bread comes down to how you handle the egg whites. Stiff peaks should stand straight up when you lift the beaters, not droop over even a little. Take your time here, because this is the foundation that everything else builds upon.
Flavor Variations To Try
Sometimes I add Everything Bagel seasoning instead of the herbs for a breakfast version. Other times, a pinch of smoked paprika changes the whole mood. Once you have the basic method down, these become a canvas for whatever flavors you are craving.
Serving Ideas That Work
These toasts shine when you treat them like you would regular bread, just lighter. Top them with avocado and everything seasoning, or use them to scoop up thick chili, or layer them with smoked salmon and cream cheese.
- Make a double batch because they disappear faster than you expect
- Store any leftovers in the fridge and toast briefly to refresh
- They freeze beautifully if you want to meal prep for the week
Save Hope these bring as much light, fluffy joy to your kitchen as they have to mine.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What makes cloud bread so fluffy?
The secret lies in stiffly beaten egg whites folded into a rich yolk mixture. This creates pockets of air throughout, resulting in an incredibly light and airy texture similar to a soufflé.
- → Can I make this dairy-free?
Substitute cream cheese with dairy-free cream cheese alternative and use nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan instead of regular Parmesan. The texture may vary slightly but remains enjoyable.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate up to 5 days. Reheat in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes to restore crispness.
- → What toppings work best?
Try whipped feta, pesto, marinara, or avocado mash. The neutral base pairs beautifully with both savory spreads and sweet toppings like berry compote or honey.
- → Why did my cloud bread deflate?
Overmixing when folding egg whites into the yolk mixture causes deflation. Fold gently in three additions, just until combined. Also ensure your egg whites reach stiff peaks before incorporating.
- → Can I freeze cloud bread?
Yes! Flash freeze individually on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature and refresh in a warm oven for 3-4 minutes to restore texture.