Cloud Eggs: Light, Fluffy & Perfect for Low-Carb Breakfasts
📜 Introduction
Cloud eggs, also known as eggs in a cloud, are a visually stunning and delicious breakfast dish that has captivated food enthusiasts worldwide. While they gained viral popularity on social media platforms like Instagram in 2017, their origins trace back to 17th-century France. The earliest known recipe, referred to as Oeufs à la Neige or “eggs in snow,” was published in the seminal French cookbook Le Cuisinier François in 1651 .
These airy creations involve whipping egg whites to stiff peaks, forming them into cloud-like mounds, and baking them with the yolk nestled in the center. The result is a light, fluffy egg white base with a creamy yolk center, offering a delightful contrast in textures.
Cloud eggs have found favor among health-conscious individuals, particularly those following low-carb or ketogenic diets, due to their high protein content and minimal carbohydrates. They are especially popular in countries like the United States 🇺🇸, United Kingdom 🇬🇧, Australia 🇦🇺, France 🇫🇷, and Japan 🇯🇵, where they are often featured in brunch menus and gourmet breakfast offerings.
Whether you’re looking to impress guests with a sophisticated brunch dish or simply want to elevate your breakfast routine, cloud eggs offer a perfect blend of elegance and simplicity.
🛠️ What You’ll Need
Making the perfect cloud eggs requires just a few basic kitchen tools — and a couple of pro tips to guarantee that fluffy, Instagram-worthy finish. This recipe is quick, easy, and doesn’t require fancy equipment, but precision matters for those pillowy whites and gooey yolks. 🍳☁️
🍴 Essential Kitchen Tools
- Hand mixer or stand mixer – for whipping egg whites to stiff peaks quickly
- Two mixing bowls – one for separating yolks, one for whipping whites
- Baking sheet – lined with parchment for easy cleanup
- Parchment paper – to prevent sticking and make shaping easier
- Spatula or spoon – to shape fluffy mounds of egg white
📌 Pro Tip: Make sure all tools that touch the egg whites are completely clean and free from grease. Even a drop of yolk or oil can prevent your whites from whipping properly!
🧊 Prep Tips for Success
- Separate eggs while cold – it’s easier and less likely to break the yolks
- Whip egg whites at room temperature – they’ll achieve more volume
- Preheat your oven to 450°F before shaping the egg whites so they bake evenly and fast
- Use a clean, dry glass or metal bowl — plastic can retain grease and sabotage your peaks
📌 Mixer-Free Option: You can whisk by hand, but it will take longer — about 10–12 minutes of vigorous beating.
Want a perfect pairing? Serve cloud eggs alongside our Avocado Toast with Poached Eggs for a modern, protein-rich brunch.
Print
7 Cloud Eggs Recipes So Outrageously Good, They Break All the Rules
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Cloud eggs are fluffy, baked egg whites with creamy yolks — a low-carb, keto-friendly breakfast that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives or parsley
- Buttered toast (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set to 450°F and line baking sheet with parchment.
- Separate Eggs: Carefully separate whites and yolks into two bowls.
- Whip Whites: Beat egg whites until stiff peaks form.
- Fold In Add-ins: Gently fold in salt, pepper, and cheese/herbs if using.
- Spoon Clouds: Create two mounds on the baking sheet, forming wells in the center.
- Bake Part 1: Bake whites alone for 3 minutes.
- Add Yolks & Finish Baking: Place yolks in the wells and bake 3–4 more minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Oven baked
- Cuisine: American, French-inspired
🛠️ What You’ll Need
Making the perfect cloud eggs requires just a few basic kitchen tools — and a couple of pro tips to guarantee that fluffy, Instagram-worthy finish. This recipe is quick, easy, and doesn’t require fancy equipment, but precision matters for those pillowy whites and gooey yolks. 🍳☁️
🍴 Essential Kitchen Tools
- Hand mixer or stand mixer – for whipping egg whites to stiff peaks quickly
- Two mixing bowls – one for separating yolks, one for whipping whites
- Baking sheet – lined with parchment for easy cleanup
- Parchment paper – to prevent sticking and make shaping easier
- Spatula or spoon – to shape fluffy mounds of egg white
📌 Pro Tip: Make sure all tools that touch the egg whites are completely clean and free from grease. Even a drop of yolk or oil can prevent your whites from whipping properly!
🧊 Prep Tips for Success
- Separate eggs while cold – it’s easier and less likely to break the yolks
- Whip egg whites at room temperature – they’ll achieve more volume
- Preheat your oven to 450°F before shaping the egg whites so they bake evenly and fast
- Use a clean, dry glass or metal bowl — plastic can retain grease and sabotage your peaks
📌 Mixer-Free Option: You can whisk by hand, but it will take longer — about 10–12 minutes of vigorous beating.
Want a perfect pairing? Serve cloud eggs alongside our Avocado Toast with Poached Eggs for a modern, protein-rich brunch.
🧂 Ingredients for Cloud Eggs
One of the best parts about cloud eggs is how minimal and customizable the ingredients are. You can keep it classic or jazz it up with savory mix-ins like cheese, bacon, or herbs. Either way, the result is a pillowy breakfast that feels gourmet with hardly any effort. 🍳🌿
🥚 Basic Ingredients (Makes 4 Cloud Eggs)
- 4 large eggs – separated into yolks and whites
- Pinch of salt – helps stabilize the whipped whites
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
📌 Important: Keep yolks intact when separating and store each in a small bowl or half-shell.
🧀 Optional Add-Ins
Mix these into your whipped egg whites just before baking:
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan, cheddar, or Gruyère – adds a savory, cheesy flavor
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives or green onions – for color and freshness
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder or smoked paprika – adds a flavor punch
Or sprinkle on top just before serving:
- Crumbled bacon or prosciutto
- Everything bagel seasoning
- Chili flakes for a little heat
📌 Add-In Tip: Fold in cheese or seasonings gently to avoid deflating your whipped whites.
🌿 Garnish Ideas
Top your cloud eggs right before serving to make them pop:
- Extra chopped herbs (parsley, dill, or basil)
- Microgreens or arugula for a modern touch
- Avocado slices or tomato rounds for a fresh finish
Try them atop our Cheddar Scallion Cornbread Muffins for a Southern-inspired brunch twist.
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
Making cloud eggs may look fancy, but it’s surprisingly easy with the right steps and a little attention to detail. Follow this method and you’ll have fluffy whites with rich, runny yolks — ready to wow your brunch crowd or elevate your weekday breakfast. ☁️🍳✨
🔪 Step 1: Separate & Whip
- Preheat your oven to 450°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Carefully separate the eggs:
- Place whites into a clean mixing bowl
- Reserve each yolk in a separate small bowl or keep in the half shell
- Add a pinch of salt to the whites and whip using a hand or stand mixer
- Beat until stiff peaks form — the whites should stand upright when you lift the beaters
📌 Tip: Even a tiny bit of yolk in the whites can prevent them from whipping — be precise!
☁️ Step 2: Shape the Clouds
- Gently fold in optional cheese or herbs at this stage if using
- Scoop the whipped whites into 4 equal mounds on your lined baking sheet
- Use the back of a spoon to create a small well in the center of each mound
- This is where your yolk will sit later
📌 Pro Tip: Use a silicone spatula to maintain the fluffy texture as you shape the whites.
🔥 Step 3: Bake & Finish
- Bake the egg whites without yolks for 3 minutes
- Carefully add the yolks into the center of each cloud
- Return to the oven and bake for 3–4 more minutes, until whites are lightly golden and yolks are still runny
📌 Don’t overbake — yolks should be soft and slightly gooey, not hard-cooked.
🥄 Final Touches
- Garnish with chopped chives, cracked pepper, or a sprinkle of seasoning
- Serve immediately — they’re best hot and fresh
- Optional: Serve on toast, English muffins, or roasted veggie slices for extra flair
Pair with our Honey Cannoli Breakfast Tartines for a sweet-savory brunch board.
🧮 Nutrition Score (Per 1 Cloud Egg) 💪
Cloud eggs are as nutritious as they are stunning — a high-protein, low-carb choice that fits seamlessly into keto, gluten-free, and low-sugar diets. Whether you’re looking for a lighter breakfast or a post-workout refuel, this fluffy egg dish offers a guilt-free start to your day. With minimal ingredients and no added starches, sugars, or preservatives, cloud eggs shine as a clean-eating favorite that doesn’t compromise on flavor or presentation. 🥚🌤️
Eggs themselves are nutritional powerhouses, loaded with vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin B12, selenium, and choline, which supports brain and liver function. Whipping the egg whites into a fluffy meringue adds volume and visual appeal without increasing calories, making this dish ideal for those managing portion sizes or watching their macros. And since each cloud egg can be modified with toppings like herbs, spices, or cheese, you’re in full control of your intake.
📊 Nutritional Breakdown (Approx. Per Serving)
- Calories: 85
- Protein: 7 oz
- Fat: 6 oz
- Carbohydrates: <1 oz
- Fiber: 0 oz
- Sugar: 0 oz
- Sodium: 90 mg
🥗 Dietary Tags & Health Highlights
✅ Keto-Friendly – Perfect for low-carb, high-fat diets
✅ Low-Carb – Great for diabetics or anyone managing blood sugar
✅ Gluten-Free – As long as served without wheat-based toast
✅ Vegetarian – Made with just eggs and optional plant-based garnishes
✅ High-Protein – Ideal for energy-boosting breakfasts or intermittent fasting plans
💡 Optional toppings like Parmesan, bacon bits, or buttered toast will increase your calorie and fat count — so customize wisely based on your dietary goals.
📌 Serving Tip: Pair your cloud eggs with roasted asparagus, sautéed spinach, or avocado for added fiber and healthy fats.
Looking for another easy, low-carb breakfast option? Check out these delicious Mini Crustless Quiches with Kale, Mushrooms & Feta.
🍽️ Serving & Storage Tips 🍞
Cloud eggs are best enjoyed immediately out of the oven, when their whipped whites are still warm and airy, and their yolks have just the right amount of richness. Thanks to their visual appeal and light texture, cloud eggs make an ideal centerpiece for everything from lazy Sunday brunches to weekday meal-prep wins. And with a little creativity, you can build an Instagram-worthy plate that tastes just as good as it looks. ☁️🍳✨
🍴 Serving Suggestions That Wow
These fluffy egg creations are endlessly customizable and can pair with a variety of textures and flavors. Here are some top ideas:
- Serve over toasted sourdough or almond flour bread for a keto-friendly base
- Add avocado slices or mashed avocado – the creamy richness contrasts perfectly with the airy whites
- Roasted sides like cherry tomatoes, asparagus spears, or garlicky spinach create a hearty, balanced plate
- Make a brunch board – include cloud eggs alongside smoked salmon, pickled onions, herbed goat cheese, and seasonal fruit
- Sprinkle with toppings like chili flakes, fresh dill, grated Parmesan, or everything bagel seasoning for a flavor boost
📌 Fancy Twist: Use a round biscuit cutter to shape your toast into perfect little nests for each cloud egg — great for presentation!
Looking for more stylish brunch ideas? Try this light and fruity Blueberry Ricotta Breakfast Cake for a sweet contrast to your savory egg dish.
❄️ Storage & Reheating Tips
While cloud eggs are a “cook and eat now” type of recipe, here’s what to do if you must plan ahead:
- Not freezer-friendly – freezing will ruin their airy texture
- Fridge-friendly for a short time – store leftovers for up to 1 day, covered, in an airtight container
- Reheat gently at 300°F for 5 minutes on a baking sheet — but expect some texture loss
- Prep tip: Whip and shape egg whites ahead of time and refrigerate them unbaked for up to 1 hour before popping them into the oven
For more storage-friendly egg ideas, check out my Freezer-Friendly Egg Muffins Guide — great for bulk prepping healthy breakfasts.
🔀 Variations & Fun Twists
Cloud eggs are elegant in their simplicity — but they’re also incredibly adaptable! Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters, experimenting with flavors, or planning a themed brunch, there are tons of delicious ways to customize your cloud eggs. 🧂🧀🌿
🍳 Creative Flavor Additions
Mix these into your whipped egg whites (just before shaping) or sprinkle on top after baking:
- Grated cheese – Parmesan, cheddar, Gruyère, or goat cheese
- Fresh herbs – chopped chives, parsley, thyme, or dill
- Spices – smoked paprika, garlic powder, curry powder, or za’atar
- Sun-dried tomatoes or olives – chopped finely for Mediterranean flair
📌 Mix-In Tip: Fold gently to avoid deflating your fluffy whites.
🧒 Kid-Friendly & Party Versions
- Mini cloud eggs in muffin tins – great for individual servings or brunch parties
- “Build Your Own Cloud” station – let guests add toppings like cheese, bacon bits, or herbs
- Funny faces with veggies – turn breakfast into edible art for kids using cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, or bell pepper strips
📌 Fun Twist: Use small cookie cutters to shape toast or veggies underneath for themed events.
🥑 Low-Carb Serving Ideas
- Serve on grilled portobello mushroom caps instead of toast
- Layer over sautéed spinach or kale for an earthy, nutrient-dense base
- Use as a topping for avocado boats – scoop out the pit and nestle a cloud egg on top
📌 Bonus Idea: Add crumbled tofu or tempeh into the whites before baking for extra plant-based protein.
Make it a full brunch spread with our Spinach and Mushroom Quiche — a perfect pairing for cloud eggs.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly are cloud eggs and how are they made?
Cloud eggs are made by separating egg whites from yolks, whipping the whites to stiff peaks (like meringue), shaping them into cloud-like nests, baking briefly, then adding the yolk to the center for a soft finish.
Can I make cloud eggs without a mixer?
Yes — it’s possible with a whisk and some elbow grease! But:
It takes 8–12 minutes of vigorous whisking by hand
Your results may be slightly less fluffy without the mechanical speed of a hand or stand mixer
Do cloud eggs taste different than regular eggs?
Yes — the texture is much lighter. The whipped whites create a soufflé-like bite that melts in your mouth, while the yolk stays creamy. It’s more delicate than a fried or poached egg.
How do I keep cloud eggs fluffy and not rubbery?
Whip whites to stiff peaks — no shortcuts here
Avoid overbaking — once whites are slightly golden and yolks just set, pull them out
Serve immediately — they deflate slightly as they sit, and texture changes if left too long
📝 Conclusion: Should You Try Cloud Eggs? 💭
Cloud eggs prove that breakfast doesn’t have to be complicated to be impressive. With their fluffy, cloud-like whites and sunny yolk centers, these oven-baked wonders take a humble ingredient — the egg — and transform it into a dish worthy of any brunch spread or Instagram feed. ☁️🍳✨
But they aren’t just beautiful. These eggs are nutrient-dense, low in carbs, and totally customizable. Whether you’re aiming for keto goals, following a gluten-free diet, or just trying to make mornings a little more exciting, cloud eggs are an ideal way to elevate your breakfast with almost no added prep time. From cheesy Parmesan clouds to spicy paprika-laced versions, the possibilities are as endless as your appetite.
They’re also a fantastic option for anyone who wants to serve up something special without needing chef-level skills. If you can separate an egg and use a mixer, you’re already halfway there. Pair with toast, avocado, sautéed veggies, or smoked salmon — and suddenly, you’ve got a restaurant-worthy meal on a Tuesday morning.
Looking for more healthy yet elegant egg dishes? Don’t miss my guide to perfect poached eggs every time.
📢 Now It’s Your Turn!
I’d love to see your twist on this cloud eggs recipe. Try your own version, snap a photo, and tag it with #CloudEggsDIY on Instagram or Pinterest. Prefer the comment section? Drop your favorite topping ideas below and inspire others in the community!