Chocolate Cloud Cake

Chocolate Cloud Cake is a medium American recipe that serves 8. 350 calories per serving. Recipe by Browned Butter Blondie on YouTube.

Prep: 47 min | Cook: 30 min | Total: 1 hr 32 min

Cost: $8.25 total, $1.03 per serving

Ingredients

  • 9 oz Semi‑Sweet Chocolate Bar (high‑quality chopped bar, not chips)
  • 1 stick Unsalted Butter (softened, cut into cubes)
  • 0.5 cup Granulated Sugar (for whipping egg whites)
  • 2 tbsp Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (adds extra chocolate depth)
  • 1 tsp Espresso Powder (enhances chocolate flavor without tasting like coffee)
  • 1 tsp Cream of Tartar (stabilizes egg whites)
  • 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (pure, high‑quality)
  • 5 Large Eggs (room temperature, separated)

Instructions

  1. Melt Chocolate and Butter

    Set a double boiler over medium‑high heat. Add the chopped 9 oz chocolate bar and 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter. Stir constantly until the mixture is completely smooth and glossy.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Cool Melted Mixture

    Remove the bowl from heat and let the chocolate‑butter mixture sit for a few minutes until it thickens slightly but is still pourable.

    Time: PT5M

  3. Prepare Springform Pan

    Spray the bottom and sides of a 9‑inch springform pan with non‑stick baking spray. Cut a circle of parchment paper to fit the bottom, place it inside, and press the removable sides into the outer ring so the parchment stays flat.

    Time: PT5M

  4. Separate Eggs

    Separate 5 large eggs, placing whites in a clean bowl and yolks in another. Keep both at room temperature.

    Time: PT5M

  5. Combine Yolks and Vanilla

    Add 1 tsp vanilla extract to the yolk bowl and whisk briefly until just combined.

    Time: PT2M

  6. Whip Egg Whites

    Using the stand mixer on low speed, add 1 tsp cream of tartar to the egg whites. Gradually increase to medium speed, then add granulated sugar one tablespoon at a time, waiting 10‑15 seconds between additions. Continue whipping until stiff peaks form (the peak should stand up and then gently fold over).

    Time: PT10M

  7. Add Cocoa and Espresso

    Stir 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder and 1 tsp espresso powder into the cooled chocolate‑butter mixture until fully incorporated.

    Time: PT2M

  8. Combine Yolks with Chocolate

    Fold the vanilla‑yolk mixture into the chocolate mixture until just blended.

    Time: PT2M

  9. First Fold of Egg Whites

    Add roughly one‑third of the whipped egg whites to the chocolate‑yolk batter. Using a large spatula, fold gently until no streaks of white remain.

    Time: PT3M

  10. Remaining Egg Whites

    Add the remaining egg whites in two batches, folding each batch gently and scraping the bottom of the bowl each time.

    Time: PT5M

  11. Transfer Batter to Pan

    Pour the finished batter into the prepared springform pan, smoothing the top lightly with the spatula. Do not over‑level; a slightly uneven surface is fine.

    Time: PT3M

  12. Bake

    Place the pan in a pre‑heated oven and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes. Do not open the oven during the first 20 minutes.

    Time: PT30M

    Temperature: 350°F

  13. Cool and Release

    Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 30 minutes, then remove the springform sides. Let the cake cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.

    Time: PT30M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
350
Protein
5 g
Carbohydrates
30 g
Fat
22 g
Fiber
3 g

Dietary info: Gluten‑Free, Vegetarian

Allergens: Eggs, Dairy, Soy (chocolate may contain soy lecithin)

Last updated: April 17, 2026

Amazon Associates

Amazon Associates PartnerTrusted

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this page. This helps support our site at no extra cost to you. Clicking on ingredient or equipment links will take you to amazon.com where you can purchase these items.

Chocolate Cloud Cake

Recipe by Browned Butter Blondie

A flourless, gluten‑free chocolate cloud cake that rises high with whipped egg whites, then gently collapses into a fudgy brownie‑center with a delicate, crackly top. Made with just eight pantry ingredients, brown butter and high‑quality chocolate give it a rich flavor, while espresso powder deepens the chocolate notes. Perfect for dinner parties, date nights, or any chocolate lover craving an elegant yet easy dessert.

MediumAmericanServes 8

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
1h 12m
Prep
35m
Cook
13m
Cleanup
2h
Total

Cost Breakdown

$8.25
Total cost
$1.03
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Melt chocolate and butter without overheating to avoid seizing.
  • Whip egg whites to stiff peaks with cream of tartar and sugar.
  • Fold egg whites gently to retain air.
  • Bake at the exact temperature of 350°F for the full 30 minutes.

Safety Warnings

  • Melted chocolate and butter are extremely hot; use oven mitts and stir carefully to avoid burns.
  • Do not over‑whip egg whites; they can become grainy and may splatter when folded.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Chocolate Cloud Cake in American dessert cuisine?

A

Chocolate Cloud Cake, also known as fallen chocolate cake, emerged in the United States as a modern, flour‑less take on classic soufflé‑style desserts. Its airy texture and fudgy center make it a popular choice for gluten‑free celebrations and elegant dinner parties.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of Chocolate Cloud Cake within American cuisine?

A

While the basic recipe stays the same, some American bakers add a swirl of caramel, a pinch of sea salt, or a layer of raspberry jam. In the Pacific Northwest, a drizzle of locally sourced maple syrup is sometimes used as a finishing touch.

cultural
Q

How is Chocolate Cloud Cake traditionally served in American dinner parties?

A

It is typically served slightly warm or at room temperature, sliced into generous wedges, and accompanied by a dollop of whipped cream, fresh berries, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for contrast.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is Chocolate Cloud Cake traditionally associated with in American culture?

A

Chocolate Cloud Cake is popular for holiday gatherings, birthday celebrations, and romantic date nights because it feels upscale yet requires only a handful of pantry ingredients.

cultural
Q

What authentic traditional ingredients are essential for Chocolate Cloud Cake versus acceptable substitutes?

A

The essential ingredients are high‑quality chocolate, unsalted butter, eggs, sugar, cocoa powder, espresso powder, cream of tartar, and vanilla. Acceptable substitutes include dark chocolate instead of semi‑sweet, Dutch‑processed cocoa for a smoother flavor, and lemon juice in place of cream of tartar.

cultural
Q

What other American desserts pair well with Chocolate Cloud Cake?

A

Chocolate Cloud Cake pairs beautifully with classic American desserts like vanilla bean ice cream, caramel sauce, or a simple fresh fruit compote such as mixed berries.

cultural
Q

What makes Chocolate Cloud Cake special or unique in American dessert tradition?

A

Its unique combination of a light, airy exterior that collapses into a dense, fudgy interior, all without any flour or chemical leaveners, sets it apart as a gluten‑free indulgence that feels both sophisticated and comforting.

cultural
Q

How has Chocolate Cloud Cake evolved over time in American home baking?

A

Originally a niche gluten‑free recipe shared on food blogs, Chocolate Cloud Cake has become mainstream thanks to YouTube chefs like Browned Butter Blondie, who popularized the use of brown butter for deeper flavor and streamlined the technique for home cooks.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Chocolate Cloud Cake at home?

A

Common mistakes include over‑whipping the egg whites, over‑mixing after adding the chocolate mixture, and baking at an incorrect temperature. Each of these can cause the cake to collapse too early or become dense.

technical
Q

Why does this Chocolate Cloud Cake recipe use whipped egg whites instead of chemical leaveners?

A

Whipped egg whites provide natural air bubbles that give the cake its lofty rise without the need for flour or baking powder, keeping the cake gluten‑free and giving it a delicate, soufflé‑like texture.

technical
Q

Can I make Chocolate Cloud Cake ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, you can bake the cake a day ahead, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly and refrigerate. For longer storage, slice and freeze the portions; thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when the Chocolate Cloud Cake is done baking?

A

The top should be thin, crackly, and slightly browned, while the sides will have risen high. The interior will be dense and fudgy. The cake will begin to deflate as it cools, creating a concave surface.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Browned Butter Blondie specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Browned Butter Blondie specializes in simple, ingredient‑focused dessert recipes that often feature brown butter, chocolate, and other comforting flavors, presented with clear step‑by‑step tutorials.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Browned Butter Blondie's approach to American dessert cooking differ from other dessert channels?

A

Browned Butter Blondie emphasizes minimal ingredient lists, the use of pantry staples, and techniques that produce restaurant‑quality results at home, whereas many other channels rely on more elaborate ingredient lists or specialized equipment.

channel

You Might Also Like

Similar recipes converted from YouTube cooking videos

Molten Chocolate Hazelnut Cookies
3

Molten Chocolate Hazelnut Cookies

A decadent cookie that combines a brownie‑like chocolate base, a molten chocolate‑hazelnut spread center, and a crunchy toasted hazelnut topping. The result is crackly edges, a fudgy middle, and a creamy hazelnut swirl—perfect for holiday gifting or an intense cookie craving.

1 hr 47 minServes 12$7
American
Black Garlic Chocolate Brownies recipe from the Garlic Farm, Isle of Wight.
3

Black Garlic Chocolate Brownies recipe from the Garlic Farm, Isle of Wight.

Rich, fudgy brownies infused with the sweet‑umami depth of black garlic. Made with dark chocolate and a hint of vanilla, these brownies are perfect for a gourmet twist on a classic treat.

55 minServes 9$13
American
Dark Chocolate Brownies Recipe
2

Dark Chocolate Brownies Recipe

Fudgy, rich dark chocolate brownies made with cocoa powder and generous dark chocolate chunks. This easy, crowd‑pleasing dessert is perfect for chocolate lovers and can be customized with your favorite mix‑ins.

1 hrServes 12$10
American
The Best Fudgy BROWNIES RECIPE I Ever Made
1

The Best Fudgy BROWNIES RECIPE I Ever Made

These ultra‑moist, fudgy brownies are packed with chocolate, a hint of instant coffee, and a crunchy chocolate‑chip topping. Perfect for a quick dessert, they stay soft for days and pair wonderfully with ice cream.

1 hr 28 minServes 12$7
American
Brownies from Scratch
3

Brownies from Scratch

These fudgy, chocolate‑rich brownies are a homemade take on Ben & Jerry's Old School ice‑cream flavor. With a mix of extra‑dark chocolate chips, chopped pecans, and almonds, they’re dense, moist, and perfect for any chocolate lover.

1 hrServes 12$18
American
The Perfect Fudgy Brownies
6

The Perfect Fudgy Brownies

A rich, fudgy brownie recipe that stands out from the crowd. Inspired by the passionate claim on Bake With Zoha that this is the brownie that makes the heart sing, these brownies are dense, chocolate‑intense, and perfect for any occasion.

50 minServes 12$8
American
Can AI make the world's best brownies?
2

Can AI make the world's best brownies?

A super‑rich, fudgy brownie recipe inspired by ChatGPT’s “best in the world” suggestion. Lots of butter, sugar, cocoa, and chocolate chips create a glossy, crackly top (thanks to a quick microwave blast) and a melt‑in‑your‑mouth interior. Perfect for dessert lovers who crave intense chocolate flavor.

1 hr 5 minServes 12$9
American
Best Chocolate Brownies!
3

Best Chocolate Brownies!

A simple, from‑scratch brownie recipe that delivers a deep chocolate flavor and a fudgy interior. Made with butter, high‑quality chocolate, espresso powder and a handful of pantry staples, these brownies are perfect for any occasion.

1 hrServes 12$8
American