Name: Fluffy Cloud Cake that Will Make You Feel Like Floating
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Cake Flour (For a gluten-free version, substitute with almond or oat flour.); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (Can be replaced by coconut sugar for a lower glycemic option.); 2 teaspoons Baking Powder (Ensure it is fresh for optimal results.); 6 large Egg Whites (Critical to whip to stiff peaks.); 1 cup Whole Milk (Can be substituted with non-dairy alternatives like almond or oat milk.); 2 teaspoons Pure Vanilla Extract (Consider almond extract for a unique twist.); 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (May use coconut oil as a dairy-free option.); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (Optional: Use a sugar substitute for a lower-calorie frosting.)

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Floating into the realm of desserts, I found myself enchanted by the Light & Fluffy Cloud Cake. With its soft and airy texture, each slice dissolves on your tongue like a gentle kiss of sweetness. This isn’t just any cake—it’s a delightful escape that transforms afternoons into special occasions. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, this recipe is an absolute joy to make and share. Plus, its lightness makes it guilt-free, while its classic appeal can turn everyday moments into celebrations. Can you hear the cheers when you serve this cloud-like delight? Let’s dive into the fluffy goodness together!

Why Is Cloud Cake So Irresistible?

Light and Airy: The Cloud Cake features a delicate texture reminiscent of a feather, making each bite feel like you’re floating on a sweet cloud.

Easily Customizable: You can play with flavors and toppings, from citrus zest to fruit preserves, ensuring there’s a version to please everyone.

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a brunch, birthday party, or cozy afternoon tea, this cake adds a festive touch and is sure to impress your guests.

Simple to Make: With just a few basic ingredients and straightforward techniques, anyone can achieve bakery-quality results at home.

Low-Guilt Indulgence: Its lightness makes it feel decadent without the heavy remorse—enjoy it any day of the week!

If you’re in the mood for more amazing desserts, don’t forget to check out my Blueberry Cheesecake Bars or the refreshing Lemon Cake Deliciously.

Cloud Cake Ingredients

• For the Batter

Cake Flour – Provides structure and lightness. Note: For a gluten-free version, substitute with almond or oat flour.
Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture. Can be replaced by coconut sugar for a lower glycemic option.
Baking Powder – Helps the cake rise, ensuring a light texture. Ensure it is fresh for optimal results.
Egg Whites – Essential for aerating the mixture, creating that fluffy, cloud-like texture. Critical to whip to stiff peaks.
Whole Milk – Adds moisture. Can be substituted with non-dairy alternatives like almond or oat milk.
Pure Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor. Consider almond extract for a unique twist.
Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture. May use coconut oil as a dairy-free option.

• For the Frosting

Powdered Sugar – For frosting; creates a smooth, sweet topping. Optional: Use a sugar substitute for a lower-calorie frosting.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cloud Cake

Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring a consistent bake for your Light & Fluffy Cloud Cake. While the oven warms up, prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing them with butter or a non-stick cooking spray, making it easier to release the cakes later.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, and granulated sugar until well combined. This dry mixture is crucial for the cake’s structure and lightness, so be sure to aerate the flour properly. Set this bowl aside as you move on to the next steps.

Step 3: Whip Egg Whites
In a clean, dry mixing bowl, add your egg whites. Using an electric mixer, whip them on high speed until stiff peaks form, about 3 to 5 minutes. The egg whites should look glossy and hold their shape when you lift the whisk. This is what gives the Cloud Cake its signature airy texture, so take your time.

Step 4: Create Wet Mixture
In another bowl, combine the whole milk, melted unsalted butter, and pure vanilla extract. Mix this wet mixture until smooth and uniform. Once blended, gradually incorporate it into your dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing; a few lumps are perfectly fine for achieving that fluffy consistency.

Step 5: Fold in Egg Whites
Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the batter using a rubber spatula, being careful not to deflate the mixture. Start by adding a third of the egg whites to lighten the batter, then gradually fold in the rest until fully combined. This delicate process will ensure your Light & Fluffy Cloud Cake maintains its cloud-like qualities.

Step 6: Bake
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.

Place them in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The cakes should be golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center will come out clean. Keep an eye on them as every oven is different; you want them perfectly baked.

Step 7: Cool Cakes
Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. After that, carefully transfer them to wire racks to cool completely. This step is important, as cooling will prevent the frosting from melting when you’re ready to decorate your Light & Fluffy Cloud Cake.

Expert Tips for Cloud Cake

Egg White Perfection: Ensure no yolk contaminates the egg whites; even a speck can prevent them from whipping to stiff peaks.
Gentle Folding: When incorporating whipped egg whites into the batter, use a folding motion to retain airiness; over-mixing can lead to a dense cake.
Fresh Ingredients: Always check the freshness of your baking powder. Old baking powder can affect the rise, making your Cloud Cake less fluffy.
Cool Down: Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting. A warm cake can cause your frosting to melt, losing that beautiful presentation.
Flavor Enhancements: Don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors! A dash of lemon or almond extract can elevate your Cloud Cake’s taste remarkably.

Make Ahead Options

These Light & Fluffy Cloud Cakes are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious dessert without the last-minute rush. You can prepare the cake layers up to 24 hours in advance; simply bake and allow them to cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating. This method helps to maintain their airy texture while preventing drying out. When you’re ready to serve, let the cakes come to room temperature, then whip up your frosting and layer it atop. This can save you time and stress, giving you a sweet delight that’s just as scrumptious as if it were freshly baked!

What to Serve with Light & Fluffy Cloud Cake

Elevate your dessert experience by pairing this delightful cake with complementary sides and drinks that enhance its ethereal charm.

Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add a burst of flavor and contrast beautifully with the cake’s sweetness.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of freshly whipped cream adds delightful richness that perfectly contrasts the cake’s fluffy texture.
Lemon Sorbet: The zesty and refreshing nature of lemon sorbet cleanses the palate and adds a fun, bright contrast to the dessert.
Sweet Coffee: A warm cup of lightly flavored coffee enhances the sweetness of the Cloud Cake, making each bite feel indulgent.
Mint Tea: The refreshing tones of mint tea complement the cake’s lightness while offering an aromatic contrast that brightens the meal.
Coconut Macaroons: These chewy, sweet treats bring another layer of texture and a tropical twist that pairs well with the fluffy cake.
Chocolate Ganache: Drizzling the top with silky chocolate ganache introduces a rich flavor that balances the cake’s lightness, while enhancing its visual appeal.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream adds a luscious texture that contrasts beautifully with the cloud-like cake, making it a classic pairing.

How to Store and Freeze Cloud Cake

Airtight Container: Store your Cloud Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its light texture and freshness.

Refrigeration: If you prefer a cooler dessert, refrigerate the cake. Make sure it’s wrapped properly and can last about a week, though it might lose some fluffiness.

Freezing: For longer storage, wrap slices of Cloud Cake in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Reheating: To restore some of the original fluffiness, briefly reheat slices in a low-temperature oven for about 10 minutes. Enjoy that delightful cloud-like escape!

Cloud Cake Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize this delightful cake to your taste and preferences!

Lemon Zest: Add a tablespoon of fresh lemon zest for a refreshing citrus punch that brightens the cake’s flavor.
Almond Extract: Swap out the vanilla for almond extract to infuse a delightful, nutty taste that complements the airy texture beautifully.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute cake flour with almond or oat flour for a gluten-free version that remains light and fluffy.
Coconut Sugar: Use coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar for a lower glycemic alternative that doesn’t compromise sweetness or texture.
Dairy-Free: Replace whole milk with almond or oat milk, and use coconut oil instead of butter for a delicious dairy-free treat.
Berries or Preserves: Top your Cloud Cake with mixed fresh berries or a light berry preserves to enhance flavor and visually elevate your dessert.
Chocolate Drizzle: For chocolate lovers, drizzle a light ganache made from dark chocolate over the cake for an indulgent twist.
Spiced Variation: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, cozy flavor that pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea.

If you’re in the mood for diverse dessert experiences, why not check out my Churro Cheesecake Indulge or the rich Burnt Basque Cheesecake?

Cloud Cake Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right cake flour for Cloud Cake?
Absolutely! When selecting cake flour, look for a finely milled product that is soft and light; this will help achieve that delicate, fluffy texture. If you’re opting for a gluten-free version, almond flour or oat flour can be excellent substitutes, each imparting a unique flavor and still maintaining the cake’s lightness.

What is the best way to store leftover Cloud Cake?
To keep your Cloud Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you live in a particularly humid environment, it’s a good idea to refrigerate it, where it can last about a week. Make sure to wrap it well to maintain moisture; a layer of plastic wrap followed by foil works wonders!

Can I freeze Cloud Cake, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Cloud Cake, begin by letting it cool completely. Then, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil—this prevents freezer burn. You can store it this way for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just transfer it to the fridge the night before to thaw, and for an extra boost of fluffiness, reheat in a low-temperature oven for about 10 minutes.

What can I do if my Cloud Cake is too dense?
If your Cloud Cake turns out denser than expected, don’t be discouraged! This often happens due to over-mixing when folding in the whipped egg whites. To avoid this next time, make sure to gently fold the egg whites into the batter, lifting from the bottom and turning the bowl as you go. This technique incorporates air without deflating the mixture, ensuring your cake remains cloud-like!

Is Cloud Cake suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Very! Cloud Cake can easily cater to various dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, swapping cake flour for almond or oat flour works beautifully. Additionally, you can substitute whole milk with non-dairy alternatives (like almond or oat milk), and use coconut oil instead of unsalted butter for a dairy-free option. Just be sure to check for allergies related to any substitute ingredients!

Can I enhance the flavor of my Cloud Cake?
Definitely! If you’re looking to add a little something special, consider mixing in a tablespoon of lemon or orange zest into the batter for a bright, citrusy twist. You can also experiment with different extracts, such as almond or coconut, to create a personalized flavor profile that matches your taste preferences. Enjoy making it your own!