If you’re looking for a dessert that’s soft, airy, and unbelievably easy to make, the Cloud Cake is your answer. With just three ingredients and twenty minutes, this recipe delivers a pillowy texture and gentle sweetness that feels like it came from a high-end bakery. No oil, no butter, no fancy tools—just a simple method with stunning results.
Perfect for last-minute cravings, unexpected guests, or cozy nights when you want something sweet without the mess, this cake is pure baking magic. Let’s walk through how to make this soft-as-air cake with minimal effort.
Just 3 Basic Ingredients
You don’t need a long shopping list for this one. Everything you need is likely already in your kitchen.
- 4 large eggs (separated)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup cake flour (or all-purpose flour sifted twice for lightness)
That’s it. No butter, no oil, no baking powder—just technique and timing. If you want to fancy it up, you can keep these optional toppings on hand: powdered sugar, berries, whipped cream, or lemon zest.
Step-by-Step Method
This cloud cake comes together in six short steps. Each one is easy and beginner-friendly, but the results feel anything but basic.
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line the bottom of an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper. Do not grease the sides. This helps the batter climb up the walls of the pan and stay fluffy while baking.
Step 2: Separate the Eggs
Carefully separate the egg yolks from the whites. Make sure not a single drop of yolk ends up in the whites or the meringue won’t whip properly. Use two bowls—one for yolks and one for whites.
Step 3: Whip the Egg Whites
In the bowl with the egg whites, start whipping with a hand mixer or stand mixer. Once soft peaks form, gradually add in the sugar. Keep beating until you get stiff, glossy peaks. This meringue will be the base of your cloud-like texture.
Step 4: Add Yolks and Fold in Flour
Whisk the yolks gently into the whipped whites. Once combined, sift in the flour slowly. Use a spatula to fold the flour in. Go slow and steady with gentle motions. The goal here is to avoid deflating the batter, so don’t stir too hard or too long.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Pour the airy batter into the prepared cake pan. Tap the pan gently to release any trapped air bubbles. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes until the top turns lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Once done, let the cake cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before gently running a knife around the edges and removing it.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
You can serve this cake slightly warm or chilled from the fridge. Either way, the texture will stay soft and light. Add toppings like powdered sugar or berries for a finishing touch.
Why You’ll Love Cloud Cake
This cake has become a favorite for many home bakers, and it’s easy to see why.
- Only 3 ingredients and no complicated steps
- Naturally light and fluffy without added fat
- Done in under 30 minutes from start to finish
- Tastes like an elegant bakery dessert
- Versatile and easy to customize
- Kid-friendly and adult-approved
It’s one of those rare desserts that feels both comforting and impressive at the same time.
Variations You Can Try
Want to give this basic recipe a twist? Here are a few variations to keep it interesting:
Vanilla Cloud Cake
Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the yolks before folding.
Lemon Cloud Cake
Mix 1 tablespoon of lemon zest into the batter for a citrusy punch.
Chocolate Swirl Version
Split the batter in half and add 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder to one portion. Swirl both batters together in the pan for a marbled look.
Layered Cake
Bake two cakes, slice off the tops for a flat surface, and layer with whipped cream and fresh fruit.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is delicious on its own, but here are a few serving ideas if you want to elevate it:
- Dust lightly with powdered sugar
- Top with fresh berries and mint
- Add a dollop of whipped cream or yogurt on the side
- Pair with espresso or herbal tea for a balanced dessert
Because it’s light and mildly sweet, it works well as both an afternoon snack or a post-dinner treat.
Storage Tips
This cake is best eaten the day it’s made, but if you have leftovers:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 1–2 days
- Refrigerate for up to 4 days, but let it sit out for a few minutes before serving
- Avoid freezing as it ruins the delicate texture
You can warm it for 5 to 10 seconds in the microwave to revive its soft feel if refrigerated.
A Cake Worth Keeping in Your Recipe Box
This 3-ingredient cloud cake is proof that great desserts don’t need to be complicated. With just eggs, sugar, and flour, you create a soft, airy cake that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re baking for yourself or serving guests, this cake is guaranteed to impress without adding stress.
It’s fast, it’s simple, and it delivers pure dessert joy every single time. Try it once and it may become your go-to cake recipe for life.
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