Imagine a dessert so light and fluffy, it feels like you’re biting into a cloud. The Cloud Cake is a delightful treat that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. The best part? You don’t need fancy equipment—just a blender! This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want to impress your family or guests with minimal effort. Let’s dive into this foolproof recipe that will become your new favorite.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- A pinch of salt
For the Decoration:
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Fresh berries or whipped cream (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Before starting, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature. This helps the batter mix evenly and results in a smoother texture. Measure everything out ahead of time so you’re ready to go. It will make the process quicker and easier.
Step 2: Blend the Wet Ingredients
Start by cracking the eggs into the blender. Add the sugar, milk, vegetable oil (or melted butter), and vanilla extract. These are your wet ingredients. Blend on medium speed for 1–2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and slightly frothy. The key here is to get the mixture nice and airy to help the cake rise and stay light. The smoother and fluffier this base is, the better the result!
Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
Once your wet ingredients are well-blended, it’s time to add the dry ingredients. Add the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and a pinch of salt directly into the blender. The cornstarch will help the cake achieve that delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture, while the baking powder will give it the lift it needs. Pulse the blender a few times to combine, and then blend on low speed for about 30 seconds until the batter is completely lump-free. Avoid overmixing, as this can affect the cake’s texture. A gentle mix is all that’s required to keep the cake light and airy.
Step 4: Prepare the Baking Pan
While the batter is in the blender, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a round or square cake pan (8-inch is ideal). You can use butter or cooking spray to grease the pan, then add a layer of parchment paper to ensure easy removal after baking. This step is crucial to avoid the cake sticking to the pan and to help it come out with a smooth finish.
Step 5: Pour the Batter Into the Pan
Carefully pour the blended cake batter into the prepared cake pan. The batter should flow in smoothly and evenly, filling the pan about two-thirds full. Don’t worry if the batter seems thin—it will rise beautifully as it bakes, forming a soft, airy texture.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Place the cake pan in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If you’re unsure whether it’s done, give the pan a gentle tap. The cake should bounce back slightly, indicating it’s cooked through. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to ensure it doesn’t overbake. The baking time may vary slightly based on your oven, so it’s always a good idea to check with a toothpick.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once the cake is baked to perfection, allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This allows the cake to firm up slightly before you remove it from the pan. Then, carefully transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling is essential, as it helps set the texture and makes it easier to slice.
Once the cake has cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar for a beautiful and classic finish. You can also add fresh berries or whipped cream on top if desired. Slice the cake into squares or wedges and serve!
Tips for Success:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Room-temperature eggs and milk blend more easily, ensuring a smooth batter and better texture in the final cake. Allow these ingredients to come to room temperature before you begin.
- Don’t Overfill the Blender: If your blender is small, blend the wet ingredients first, then transfer the mixture to a bowl to mix in the dry ingredients. This prevents overloading the blender and ensures smooth mixing.
- Optional Add-Ins: The Cloud Cake is a versatile recipe, so feel free to experiment with additional flavors. Add a handful of chocolate chips, lemon zest, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a twist on the classic recipe.
- Even Mixing: When mixing the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients, don’t overmix. A few gentle pulses in the blender are enough to combine everything smoothly. Overmixing may lead to a denser cake.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Minimal Cleanup: Everything goes into the blender, so there’s hardly any mess. This makes cleanup a breeze, allowing you to enjoy your cake without worrying about piles of dishes.
Quick and Easy: From start to finish, this cake takes less than an hour to make. It’s a perfect dessert when you need something quick but impressive.
Versatile: The Cloud Cake is a blank canvas. Pair it with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or your favorite frosting for an elevated dessert experience. You can customize the flavors and toppings to suit your preferences or the season.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this cake gluten-free? Yes! Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that contains xanthan gum for similar results. You can also try using almond flour, although this may change the texture slightly. Make sure to check your gluten-free flour blend’s packaging for specific instructions.
- How do I store the cake? Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you need to store it for a longer period, you can freeze it. Just wrap it in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and place it in the freezer for up to a month. To thaw, simply leave it at room temperature for a few hours before serving.
- Can I use a different type of oil? Absolutely. Coconut oil or light olive oil works well, but keep in mind that it might slightly alter the flavor. Coconut oil will give the cake a subtle coconut flavor, while olive oil may lend a mild savory note. For the lightest result, vegetable oil is preferred.
- Can I make cupcakes instead of a single cake? Yes! Pour the batter into cupcake liners and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This recipe will make around 12 to 15 cupcakes, depending on the size of the liners.
Conclusion
The Cloud Cake is the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves simplicity without compromising on taste. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite. Its light, airy texture and delicate flavor make it a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed year-round.
This cake is perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a gathering, celebrating a birthday, or simply treating yourself to something sweet. You don’t need to be a professional baker to create something beautiful and delicious. So, grab your blender, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a cake that’s as light and fluffy as a dream!
