Introduction: In the age of social media and food trends, there’s always that one recipe that takes the internet by storm. Enter Cloud Bread, a whimsical, fluffy, and visually stunning creation that’s captured the hearts (and appetites) of food enthusiasts worldwide. This viral sensation has its origins as a low-carb alternative to traditional bread, but it’s now embraced for its delightful taste and captivating aesthetics. Join us as we delve into the world of Cloud Bread and guide you through the steps to create this ethereal delight in your own kitchen.
Historical Context: Cloud Bread, also known as “Oopsie Bread” or “Revolution Rolls,” gained popularity in the early 2000s as a staple in low-carb and gluten-free diets. Originally, it was created as an alternative for those who needed to reduce their carbohydrate intake. However, it wasn’t until the 2020s that Cloud Bread truly took off, thanks to its Instagram-worthy appearance and the desire for visually pleasing, health-conscious dishes. This light, airy, and almost magical bread quickly became a sensation, turning kitchen enthusiasts into amateur bakers.
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Begin by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Separate Eggs
- Carefully separate the egg whites from the yolks, placing each in separate mixing bowls. Ensure that no traces of yolk are mixed with the whites, as this can affect the fluffiness of your Cloud Bread.
Step 3: Beat the Egg Whites
- Using a hand or stand mixer, whisk the egg whites on high speed until they become foamy and frothy. This will take about 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Add Cream of Tartar
- Gradually add the cream of tartar to the egg whites while continuing to beat. This will help stabilize the egg whites and create a fluffy texture. Beat until stiff peaks form.
Step 5: Prepare Yolk Mixture
- In the other bowl with the egg yolks, add the softened cream cheese and honey (if using). Mix until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Step 6: Combine Mixtures
- Gently fold the egg yolk mixture into the whipped egg whites. Be careful not to deflate the egg whites; use a gentle, folding motion until fully combined.
Step 7: Form Cloud Bread Rounds
- Using a spoon, scoop the Cloud Bread mixture onto the parchment-lined baking sheet, forming 8 rounds. You can shape them to your desired size and thickness.
Step 8: Bake
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes or until the Cloud Bread rounds turn golden brown and set.
Step 9: Cool and Enjoy
- Once baked, remove the Cloud Bread from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes. They will be delicate when hot but will firm up as they cool.
Step 10: Serve
- Cloud Bread can be enjoyed in various ways. Use them as a low-carb bread substitute for sandwiches, as a base for open-faced sandwiches, or even as a dessert with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries.