Learning how to make a fluffy cloud cake at home is easier than you might think. This incredible cloud cake recipe transforms just four simple ingredients into a dessert that truly lives up to its name - delivering an impossibly light, airy texture that melts on your tongue. The magic happens through a gentle water bath cooking method and careful folding technique that creates the signature cloud-like consistency that makes this cake so special.

Why You'll Love This Cloud Cake

✅ Flour-Free - Perfect for those avoiding gluten or looking for lighter alternatives
✅ Only 4 Ingredients - Minimal shopping and maximum flavor
☁️ Cloud-Like Texture - Impossibly light and airy consistency
💧 Water Bath Method - Ensures even, gentle cooking for perfect results

Essential Ingredients You'll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, but choosing quality ingredients makes all the difference:

Large Eggs (4) - Room temperature eggs are crucial for achieving the best volume when whipping whites. Cold eggs won't whip properly, so plan ahead and let them sit out for about an hour before baking.

Greek Yogurt (1/2 cup) - The tanginess of Greek yogurt balances the sweetness while adding protein and moisture. Regular plain yogurt works as a substitute, though Greek yogurt provides better structure.

Sweetened Condensed Milk (1/2 cup) - This ingredient does double duty, providing both sweetness and richness without the need for additional sugar or cream.

Fresh Lemon (1 medium) - Both the juice and zest are essential. The citrus brightens the entire cake and prevents it from being overly sweet. Fresh lemon makes a noticeable difference over bottled juice.

Powdered Sugar (optional) - For dusting before serving

For a quick and simple bake, you can also try our 3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies — the perfect easy treat.

Pro Tips for Perfect Cloud Cake Every Time

Creating the perfect Cloud Cake requires attention to a few key details that make the difference between success and disappointment:

Temperature Control is Everything - Baking at a low temperature (340°F/170°C) prevents the proteins from setting too quickly, which would create cracks and a dense texture. Patience here pays off significantly.

Whipping Technique Matters - Your bowl and beaters must be completely clean and dry. Even a tiny amount of fat or water will prevent the egg whites from reaching their full volume. Whip until you achieve stiff peaks that hold their shape when you lift the beaters.

Gentle Folding Preserves Air - This isn't the time for vigorous mixing. Use a large spatula and fold the whites into the yolk mixture in three additions, using gentle, sweeping motions from bottom to top. Stop as soon as everything is just combined.

Don't Peek During Baking - Opening the oven door causes temperature fluctuations that can make your cake collapse. Trust the timing and resist the urge to check progress.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation (15 minutes)
Start by preheating your oven to 340°F (170°C). Prepare a 8-inch springform pan by lining the bottom with parchment paper, then wrapping the entire outside with heavy-duty aluminum foil. This waterproofing step is crucial for the water bath method.

Creating the Base (10 minutes)
Separate your eggs carefully, ensuring no yolk gets into the whites. In the bowl with yolks, whisk in the sweetened condensed milk, Greek yogurt, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest until completely smooth. The mixture should be pale and well-combined.

Whipping the Whites (8 minutes)
In your clean bowl, whip the egg whites until they form stiff, glossy peaks. This typically takes 6-8 minutes with a stand mixer on medium-high speed. The peaks should hold their shape when you lift the beaters straight up.

Combining with Care (5 minutes)
Add one-third of the whipped whites to the yolk mixture and fold gently to lighten the base. Then add the remaining whites in two more additions, folding just until no white streaks remain. Don't overmix – a few small lumps are better than deflated whites.

Water Bath Setup (5 minutes)
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top gently. Place the pan in a large roasting pan or deep baking dish. Add room temperature water to the outer pan until it reaches about halfway up the sides of the cake pan.

Baking Process (45 minutes + cooling)
Bake for exactly 45 minutes without opening the oven door. When time is up, turn off the oven, crack the door open slightly, and let the cake cool in the oven for 30 minutes. This gradual cooling prevents collapse.

Remove from oven and cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2-3 hours or overnight.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different pan size? Stick with the 8-inch springform pan. A larger pan will make the cake too thin, while a smaller one might cause overflow.

What type of water for the bath? Regular tap water at room temperature works perfectly. Hot water can cook the edges too quickly.

Why did my cake collapse? Usually this happens from opening the oven door during baking or skipping the gradual cooling process.

Can I make dairy-free substitutions? While I haven't tested it extensively, coconut yogurt and coconut condensed milk might work, though the texture may differ slightly.

Curious about artisan bread too? Check out our Batard Bread Recipe— a rustic classic every baker should try.

Serving and Storage

Dust with powdered sugar just before serving for an elegant presentation. This cake is best enjoyed within 2-3 days of making and should be stored covered in the refrigerator. The texture actually improves after the first day as the flavors meld together.

For extra tips on perfecting airy desserts, see this detailed guide from King Arthur Baking.

Each slice delivers that signature cloud-like texture that makes this cake so special – light enough to feel virtuous, yet rich enough to satisfy any sweet craving. It's the perfect ending to a heavy meal or a delightful afternoon treat with coffee.

The simplicity of this recipe makes it an ideal choice for both novice bakers looking to impress and experienced cooks wanting something effortless yet elegant.

Conclusion

This fluffy cloud cake recipe proves that sometimes the most extraordinary desserts come from the simplest ingredients. With just four pantry staples and a gentle touch, you can create a dessert that's guaranteed to wow your family and friends. The cloud-like texture and refreshing lemon flavor make it a perfect ending to any meal, while the easy preparation means you can enjoy homemade cake magic anytime you crave something special.