Cloud Bread
Cloud Bread is a easy American recipe that serves 6. 30 calories per serving. Recipe by It's Only Food w/Chef John Politte on YouTube.
Prep: 28 min | Cook: 30 min | Total: 1 hr 8 min
Cost: $0.95 total, $0.16 per serving
Ingredients
- 3 Large Egg (room temperature, separated yolks and whites)
- 0.125 teaspoon Cream of Tartar (helps stabilize egg whites)
- 0.33 cup Plain Yogurt (full‑fat or Greek yogurt works best)
Instructions
Preheat Oven
Set the oven to 300°F (150°C) and let it preheat.
Time: PT10M
Temperature: 300°F
Prepare Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Time: PT2M
Separate Eggs
Separate the three eggs, placing yolks in one bowl and whites in another.
Time: PT3M
Whip Egg Whites
Add 1/8 tsp cream of tartar to the egg whites and beat on high speed until stiff peaks form.
Time: PT5M
Combine Yolks and Yogurt
In the yolk bowl, whisk the yolks together with 1/3 cup yogurt until smooth.
Time: PT2M
Fold Whipped Whites Into Yolks
Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the yolk‑yogurt mixture in batches, just until combined.
Time: PT3M
Portion Onto Sheet
Spoon the batter onto the parchment, making about six equal loaves (roughly 2‑inch diameter).
Time: PT3M
Bake
Place the sheet in the oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the tops are lightly golden.
Time: PT30M
Temperature: 300°F
Cool
Remove from oven and let the cloud breads cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes before handling.
Time: PT10M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 30
- Protein
- 2 g
- Carbohydrates
- 1 g
- Fat
- 2 g
- Fiber
- 0 g
Dietary info: Gluten Free, Low Carb, Keto Friendly, Vegetarian
Allergens: Eggs, Dairy
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Cream of Tartar: 1/4 tsp lemon juice, 1/4 tsp white vinegar
- Instead of Plain Yogurt: Sour cream, Greek yogurt
Equipment Needed
- Oven
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper
- Mixing Bowls
- Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer
- Rubber Spatula
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Whipping egg whites to stiff peaks
- Folding the whites into the yolk mixture without deflating
- Baking at a low temperature to maintain airy texture
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use room‑temperature eggs; they separate more cleanly.
- If you want colored cloud bread, add a few drops of natural food coloring to the yolk‑yogurt mixture before folding.
- For a savory twist, fold in a pinch of herbs or grated cheese after the whites are incorporated.
Troubleshooting
Egg whites do not reach stiff peaks.
Make sure the bowl and beaters are completely clean and free of any fat. Add a pinch more cream of tartar and continue beating.
Cloud breads collapse after baking.
Do not over‑mix when folding; keep the batter airy. Also, avoid opening the oven door during the first 20 minutes.
Bread is too dense or gummy.
Check that the egg whites were fully whipped and that the yolk‑yogurt mixture was not over‑mixed before folding.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Wrap individually and freeze for up to 1 month; reheat gently.
Room temperature: Not recommended; cloud bread dries quickly at room temperature.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Bake the cloud breads a day ahead and store in the fridge; they reheat well in a toaster or low oven.
- For sandwich use, lightly toast the cooled breads to add a bit of crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of cloud bread in the low‑carb/keto community?
Cloud bread became popular in the early 2010s as a keto‑friendly, flour‑less alternative that mimics the texture of bread using only eggs and dairy. It spread through social media and health blogs as a light, airy snack for those avoiding carbs.
What are traditional regional variations of cloud bread in different cuisines?
While the basic recipe is universal, some Asian versions add matcha or taro powder for color, and European variations may incorporate cheese or herbs. The core technique—whipped egg whites folded with a moist base—remains the same.
How is cloud bread traditionally served in keto or gluten‑free diets?
It is often used as a sandwich base, topped with avocado, smoked salmon, or cream cheese. Some people toast it and spread almond butter for a quick breakfast, or use it as a low‑carb pizza crust.
What occasions or celebrations is cloud bread commonly associated with in the health‑food community?
Cloud bread appears at keto potlucks, low‑carb brunches, and fitness‑focused gatherings where guests want a bread‑like option without carbs. It’s also a popular snack for meal‑prep enthusiasts.
What makes cloud bread special or unique in the low‑carb and gluten‑free cuisine?
Its unique airy texture comes from the whipped egg whites, giving a bread‑like bite without any flour or starch. This makes it virtually carb‑free while still providing a satisfying mouthfeel.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making cloud bread?
Common errors include under‑whipping the egg whites, over‑mixing after folding, and opening the oven too early. Each of these can cause the bread to collapse or become dense.
Why does this cloud bread recipe use cream of tartar instead of lemon juice?
Cream of tartar stabilizes the egg whites more reliably than acid from lemon juice, especially at the low temperature used for baking, ensuring consistent stiff peaks.
Can I make cloud bread ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, bake the loaves a day ahead, let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Re‑heat in a toaster or low oven before serving.
What texture and appearance should I look for when cloud bread is done?
The tops should be lightly golden and the loaves should feel firm to the touch but still spring back slightly when pressed. Inside they should be soft, airy, and almost sponge‑like.
What does the YouTube channel It’s Only Food w/Chef John Politte specialize in?
The channel focuses on approachable, health‑conscious recipes, often highlighting low‑carb, gluten‑free, and quick‑prep meals that home cooks can make with everyday ingredients.
How does the YouTube channel It’s Only Food w/Chef John Politte’s approach to low‑carb cooking differ from other health‑food channels?
Chef John emphasizes minimal equipment, clear step‑by‑step visuals, and practical tips for everyday kitchens, whereas many other channels rely on specialty gadgets or overly complex techniques.
Last updated: August 21, 2026
