A “Cloud Cake” typically refers to a light, airy, and fluffy dessert—like eating a sweet cloud! There are several variations around the world (e.g., Japanese-style, mousse-based, or whipped cream layered cakes), but here’s a popular and approachable version of a Vanilla Cloud Cake that lives up to its dreamy name:
☁️ Vanilla Cloud Cake Recipe
Soft, pillowy sponge with whipped cream layers
🧁 Ingredients:
For the Sponge Cake:
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5 large eggs (room temperature)
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120 g (½ cup + 1 tbsp) granulated sugar
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100 g (¾ cup) cake flour (or sifted all-purpose flour)
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2 tbsp vegetable oil
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2 tbsp milk (room temp)
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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Pinch of salt
For the Whipped Cream Frosting:
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2 cups heavy cream (cold)
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4 tbsp powdered sugar (adjust to taste)
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1 tsp vanilla extract
🔪 Instructions:
1. Prepare and preheat:
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Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
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Line the bottom of a springform or round 8-inch pan with parchment (do not grease sides).
2. Make the sponge batter:
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Separate the egg whites and yolks into two large bowls.
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Whisk yolks with ½ the sugar until pale. Add oil, milk, and vanilla. Sift in flour and salt; fold gently.
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In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites until foamy, then gradually add remaining sugar and beat to stiff peaks.
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Gently fold the meringue into the yolk batter in 3 parts—don’t deflate it.
3. Bake:
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Pour batter into the pan. Tap gently to remove large bubbles.
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Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until top is lightly golden and springs back when touched.
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Let cool upside down on a wire rack (to prevent collapsing).
4. Whip the cream:
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In a chilled bowl, beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Don’t overwhip.
5. Assemble the cake:
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Once the sponge is completely cool, slice into 2 or 3 layers.
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Spread whipped cream between each layer and on top. You can keep the sides “naked” or fully frosted.
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Chill for at least 2 hours before serving for best texture.
🌸 Optional Variations:
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Add fresh strawberries or mango between layers.
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Flavor the sponge with lemon zest, almond, or matcha.
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Make it chocolate by replacing 2 tbsp flour with unsweetened cocoa powder.
Would you like a chocolate cloud cake, a no-bake mousse cloud cake, or even a Japanese-style soufflé cloud cake? I can guide you through those too!