Fluffy Low-Carb Cloud Bread with Cottage Cheese & Herbs: Your Easiest Keto-Friendly Recipe
Imagine a bread that’s incredibly light, airy, and packed with flavor, yet remains wonderfully low in carbohydrates. That’s exactly what you get with this delightful Cloud Bread recipe, enhanced with the richness of cottage cheese and the aromatic kick of fresh herbs. It’s not only a fantastic option for those following a low-carb or keto diet, but it’s also surprisingly simple to prepare, making it a perfect addition to any meal, especially when paired with a hearty vegetable soup.
My Culinary Journey: Discovering the Joy of Cloud Bread
This month, I had the pleasure of participating in a food blog swap, an exciting event where you get to explore and cook from another blogger’s culinary creations. My assigned blog was easydailyfood.com, a charming Dutch food blog run by Marijke. Her blog is a treasure trove of quick, healthy, and easy-to-follow recipes, all beautifully presented with refreshing photography. It was truly a treat to dive into her collection and find inspiration.
One of the best parts of the food blog swap is the opportunity to delve into someone else’s culinary world – a blog you might not have discovered otherwise – and freely browse through all their delicious recipes. I often find myself pleasantly lost in the vast choice, making it difficult to pick just one! This time was no different; the sheer number of tempting dishes led to a significant “choice burden.” Everything looked so good, but a decision had to be made.
Ultimately, I gravitated towards a recipe that was quick, healthy, and low-carb, a dish that Marijke, like me, often saw popping up on our blog rolls: Cloud Bread. Its super trendy status and reputation for being easy to prepare instantly caught my eye. While I don’t strictly adhere to a low-carb diet, I absolutely love variety in my meals, and incorporating a recipe with fewer carbs can be a wonderful way to diversify my menu. This cloud bread recipe promised both simplicity and a fresh, light alternative to traditional bread.
What is Cloud Bread? The Airy, Low-Carb Sensation
Cloud bread, also known as oopsie bread, is a revolutionary low-carb, gluten-free bread alternative that has taken the culinary world by storm. Unlike traditional bread, it contains no flour or yeast. Instead, its signature airy texture comes from whipped egg whites, which create a light, cloud-like consistency. It’s a fantastic option for anyone looking to reduce their carbohydrate intake, offering a versatile base that can be customized with various flavors.
The beauty of cloud bread lies in its simplicity and adaptability. It can be made sweet or savory, making it suitable for a wide range of dishes. For those on a keto or paleo diet, it’s a game-changer, providing a bread-like experience without derailing dietary goals. The addition of cottage cheese not only makes this version extra flavorful and moist but also adds a boost of protein, making each bite more satisfying. Coupled with fragrant herbs, this cloud bread transforms into a savory delight, perfect for pairing with a variety of meals.
Why This Cloud Bread Recipe Stands Out: Easy, Flavorful, and Nutritious
This particular cloud bread recipe, featuring cottage cheese and herbs, truly stands out for several compelling reasons. Firstly, its ease of preparation is unparalleled. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can achieve perfectly fluffy results. The total time from prep to oven is surprisingly short, making it an ideal choice for busy weekdays or last-minute meal additions.
Secondly, the flavor profile is exceptional. The cottage cheese adds a subtle tang and creamy richness that complements the lightness of the egg whites. Infusing the mixture with Italian herbs elevates the taste, giving these cloud breads a savory, aromatic quality that is simply irresistible. They are delicious on their own, but truly shine when served alongside a warm bowl of vegetable soup, creating a wholesome and incredibly satisfying low-carb lunch.
Finally, the nutritional benefits are significant. Being low-carb, this cloud bread helps maintain stable blood sugar levels and supports weight management goals. It’s also naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Each bun is light and airy, meaning it won’t leave you feeling overly full, but the combination of protein from the eggs and cottage cheese, along with the fiber from the soup, creates a well-balanced and nourishing meal. I even made a video tutorial to ensure that every step is as easy and clear as possible, so you can bake with confidence!
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📖 Recipe
VIDEO
RECIPE CARD
Andréa
Pin Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 large eggs
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
- 3 tablespoons cottage cheese (or quark)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 teaspoons Italian herbs
- pinch salt
All my recipes are written both in Metric (gram / ml) and US Customary (cups / pounds). Here you can select which type of amount you would like to see.
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 320 °F (160 °C) or 290 °F (145 °C) for a convection oven. This lower temperature helps the cloud bread bake evenly without browning too quickly.
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Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make it easy to remove the delicate cloud breads once baked.
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Prepare all your ingredients by portioning them into separate small bowls or trays. This method, known as “mise-en-place,” makes the preparation process much smoother and more enjoyable.
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Carefully separate the 3 large eggs, placing the egg whites into one very clean, fat-free mixing bowl and the yolks into another. It is crucial that the egg white bowl is completely free of any grease or yolk, otherwise your egg whites will not stiffen properly.3 large eggs
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Sprinkle the ¼ teaspoon of baking powder over the egg whites. Using an electric mixer, beat the egg whites until they form very stiff peaks. You’ll know they’re ready when you can hold the bowl upside down over your head without the egg whites falling out.¼ teaspoon baking powder
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In the second bowl, combine the egg yolks, 1 tablespoon of honey, 3 tablespoons of cottage cheese (or quark), 2 teaspoons of Italian herbs, and a pinch of salt. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well combined and smooth.3 tablespoons cottage cheese, 1 tablespoon honey, 2 teaspoons Italian herbs, pinch salt
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Gently add approximately one-third of the stiff egg whites to the egg yolk mixture. Using a spatula, carefully fold the whites into the yolks. This step is crucial for tempering the egg yolks and introducing air gradually, which helps to maintain the airy texture of the final cloud bread.
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Once the first third of egg whites is well incorporated, carefully fold in the remaining two-thirds of the stiff egg whites into the egg yolk mixture. Use a gentle hand and avoid overmixing, as the goal is to preserve as much air as possible to ensure your cloud bread remains light and fluffy.
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Using an ice cream scoop or a large spoon, gently drop dollops of the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one as they will expand slightly. Place the baking sheet into the preheated oven immediately.
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Bake the cloud breads for approximately 20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and feel firm to the touch. The exact baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on them.
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Once baked, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Allow the cloud breads to cool completely on the parchment paper before handling. They will firm up as they cool.
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Gently lift the cooled cloud breads from the parchment paper using a thin spatula or pallet knife. Serve immediately and enjoy their wonderfully airy texture and savory flavor.
Nutrition
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Expert Tips for Baking Cloud Bread Success
- Ensure Fat-Free Bowls and Utensils: This is the golden rule for whipping egg whites successfully. Any trace of fat (from yolks, fingers, or greasy bowls) will prevent the whites from stiffening. Use glass or metal bowls and clean them thoroughly before use.
- Room Temperature Eggs: Eggs separate more easily and whip up to a greater volume when they are at room temperature. Plan ahead and take them out of the fridge about 30 minutes before you start.
- Gentle Folding: When combining the egg yolk mixture with the whipped egg whites, always fold gently. Overmixing will deflate the egg whites, resulting in dense cloud bread rather than airy ones. Use a spatula and a circular motion, scraping from the bottom and folding over the top.
- Even Scooping: Use an ice cream scoop or two spoons to create uniform cloud bread portions. This ensures they bake evenly and look consistent.
- Adjust Oven Temperature: The provided oven temperatures are a guideline. If your cloud bread is browning too quickly or not cooking through, adjust your oven slightly. A slightly lower temperature for a longer time can sometimes yield better results.
- Don’t Open the Oven Door: Resist the urge to peek during the first 15 minutes of baking. Opening the door can cause the delicate structure of the cloud bread to collapse.
Creative Ways to Enjoy Your Herbed Cloud Bread
While this herbed cloud bread is perfect with a warm bowl of vegetable soup, its versatility extends far beyond that! Here are some delicious ideas to inspire you:
- Healthy Sandwiches or Sliders: Use two cloud breads as a low-carb alternative to sandwich bread. Fill them with sliced turkey, cheese, lettuce, tomato, and a light spread for a satisfying lunch.
- Alongside Salads: Serve them as a light, gluten-free accompaniment to your favorite green salad, adding texture and savory flavor.
- Mini Pizza Bases: Top a cloud bread with a spoonful of marinara sauce, a sprinkle of mozzarella, and your favorite toppings (like pepperoni or sautéed vegetables). Bake for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly for a quick low-carb pizza.
- With Dips and Spreads: Enjoy them with hummus, guacamole, cream cheese, or a savory herb dip for a healthy snack or appetizer.
- Breakfast Delight: Pair them with scrambled eggs, a slice of avocado, or some smoked salmon for a protein-packed, low-carb breakfast.
- Bruschetta Alternative: Lightly toast them and top with diced tomatoes, garlic, basil, and a drizzle of olive oil for a delicious low-carb bruschetta.
Variations to Spice Up Your Cloud Bread
This recipe is incredibly flexible, allowing you to experiment with different flavor profiles:
- Garlic & Parmesan: Add a teaspoon of garlic powder and a tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese to the egg yolk mixture for a robust, savory flavor.
- Spicy Kick: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne powder can add a subtle heat.
- Onion & Chives: Mix in finely chopped chives or a teaspoon of onion powder for a different aromatic twist.
- Everything Bagel Seasoning: Sprinkle “everything bagel” seasoning on top before baking for a crunchy, flavorful crust.
- Sweet Version: Omit the savory herbs and salt. Instead, add a teaspoon of vanilla extract and a touch more sweetener (like stevia or erythritol) to the egg yolk mixture. You can even sprinkle cinnamon on top for a sweet treat.
- Cheese Lovers: Incorporate different types of finely shredded cheese, like cheddar or Gruyère, into the yolk mixture for an even richer taste.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cloud Bread
- Is cloud bread truly gluten-free?
- Yes, absolutely! Since cloud bread does not use any flour, it is naturally gluten-free, making it a wonderful option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
- Can I make cloud bread ahead of time? How do I store it?
- Cloud bread is best enjoyed fresh on the day it’s made, as its airy texture can start to soften over time. However, you can store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature or gently reheat in a low oven.
- Why didn’t my egg whites stiffen?
- The most common reason for egg whites not stiffening is the presence of fat. Ensure your bowl and beaters are impeccably clean and completely free of any grease or egg yolk residue. Also, make sure your eggs are at room temperature for optimal whipping.
- Can I substitute cottage cheese with another ingredient?
- While cottage cheese adds a unique texture and flavor, you can use quark or cream cheese as a substitute. Each will impart a slightly different flavor and consistency, so feel free to experiment to find your favorite.
This herbed cloud bread with cottage cheese is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to explore a healthier, lighter way of enjoying your favorite meals. Its ease of preparation, combined with its delicious flavor and impressive dietary benefits, makes it a staple in any kitchen. Whether you’re adhering to a low-carb lifestyle or simply looking for a new, exciting bread alternative, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite. So, whip up a batch, savor the airy goodness, and let me know how you enjoyed your culinary creation!