What Is a Keto Cloud Cake?
Keto Cloud Cake is inspired by Japanese-style cheesecake and classic cloud bread, combining the best of both worlds. It has the softness of a soufflé, the richness of cheesecake, and the lightness of a sponge cake. The texture is delicate and airy, yet stable enough to slice once cooled.
Because it contains no flour or traditional sugar, this cake is extremely low in carbohydrates. Most of the volume comes from whipped egg whites, which trap air and give the cake its signature cloud-like appearance. Cream cheese adds richness and structure, while a keto-friendly sweetener provides just enough sweetness without spiking blood sugar.
Why You’ll Love This Keto Cloud Cake
This cake is a favorite for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly light and fluffy, making it perfect after a heavy meal. Second, it’s made with simple ingredients that are easy to find. Third, it’s versatile—you can flavor it with vanilla, lemon, or almond, and dress it up or down depending on the occasion.
It’s also ideal for birthdays, celebrations, or everyday treats when you want something sweet but still keto-compliant. Even people who don’t follow a keto diet often love this cake because of its unique texture and gentle sweetness.
Ingredients for Keto Cloud Cake
Main Ingredients
- 4 large eggs, separated (room temperature)
- 4 oz (113 g) full-fat cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup powdered erythritol or monk fruit sweetener
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- Pinch of salt
Optional Flavor Additions
- Zest of 1 lemon (for a lemon cloud cake)
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (reduce sweetener slightly if adding)
Choosing the Right Sweetener for Keto Baking
For the best results, use a powdered keto-friendly sweetener. Granulated sweeteners don’t dissolve as well and can leave a gritty texture. Powdered erythritol or monk fruit blends work best because they dissolve smoothly into the batter and help maintain the cake’s delicate crumb.
Avoid liquid sweeteners for this recipe, as they can alter the structure and prevent the egg whites from whipping properly.
Preparing Your Baking Pan
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line the bottom of an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper. Do not grease the sides of the pan—this helps the cake cling to the edges as it rises, preventing collapse.
Place the pan inside a larger baking dish if you plan to use a water bath. A water bath helps the cake bake gently and evenly, reducing the risk of cracks and keeping the texture ultra-soft.
How to Separate Eggs Correctly
Separating eggs cleanly is essential for this recipe. Any trace of yolk in the egg whites can prevent them from whipping properly. Crack each egg into a small bowl before transferring the whites to a larger mixing bowl. This way, if a yolk breaks, it won’t contaminate the entire batch.
Let the eggs come to room temperature before starting. Room-temperature egg whites whip faster and hold more air, which is key for the cloud-like texture.
Making the Cream Cheese Base
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until completely smooth and lump-free. This step is crucial, as lumps in the cream cheese will be difficult to remove later. Add the egg yolks one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in the vanilla extract and half of the powdered sweetener. Mix until the batter is smooth, creamy, and uniform. Set this mixture aside while you prepare the egg whites.
Whipping the Egg Whites to Perfection
In a clean, dry bowl, add the egg whites, cream of tartar, and a pinch of salt. Begin whipping on medium speed until the whites become foamy. Gradually increase the speed and slowly add the remaining sweetener.
Continue whipping until stiff peaks form. The egg whites should be glossy and hold their shape when you lift the whisk. Be careful not to overwhip, as this can cause the whites to become dry and difficult to fold.
Folding the Batter Gently
Folding is the most important step in making Keto Cloud Cake. Start by adding one-third of the whipped egg whites to the cream cheese mixture. Gently fold to loosen the base.
Next, add the remaining egg whites in two additions, folding gently with a spatula. Use slow, sweeping motions from the bottom of the bowl to the top, rotating the bowl as you go. The goal is to preserve as much air as possible for a light, fluffy cake.
Baking the Keto Cloud Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and gently smooth the top. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 40–45 minutes. If using a water bath, carefully add hot water to the outer pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the cake pan.
The cake is done when the top is lightly golden and the center is just set. Turn off the oven, crack the door open slightly, and let the cake cool inside for 20 minutes. This gradual cooling helps prevent deflation.
Cooling and Setting the Cake
Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan. As it cools, it will naturally shrink slightly—this is normal. Once fully cooled, gently run a knife around the edges and remove the cake from the pan.
For best texture, refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour before slicing. This helps it firm up while maintaining its soft, airy interior.
Serving Ideas for Keto Cloud Cake
Keto Cloud Cake is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it with keto-friendly toppings. Serve it with whipped heavy cream sweetened with erythritol, a few fresh raspberries or strawberries (in moderation), or a dusting of powdered sweetener.
For a special occasion, drizzle with a sugar-free chocolate sauce or add a thin layer of keto lemon curd on top.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Store Keto Cloud Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Because of its delicate structure, it’s best enjoyed fresh or within a day or two. Freezing is not recommended, as it can compromise the cake’s airy texture.
Final Thoughts on Keto Cloud Cake
Keto Cloud Cake is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create something truly special. Light, fluffy, and gently sweet, this cake feels like a treat while staying completely keto-friendly. It’s ideal for celebrations, afternoon cravings, or whenever you want a dessert that won’t weigh you down.