Here’s a beautifully written article and the full recipe for a timeless, elegant dessert — the Flourless Cloud Cake ☁️🍫
Light as air, rich as silk — this Flourless Cloud Cake is a true masterpiece of classic baking. Originating from old European patisserie traditions, this cake is made with just a few simple ingredients — chocolate, eggs, sugar, and butter — yet it delivers incredible texture and flavor.
When baked, the cake rises high, forms a delicate crackly crust, and sinks slightly as it cools, creating a soft, mousse-like center that melts in your mouth. It’s rich enough for celebrations, yet simple enough for any day you want something extra special.
🍰 Ingredients
For the Cake:
8 oz (225 g) semisweet or dark chocolate, chopped
1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, cut into pieces
6 large eggs, separated
3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar, divided
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
A pinch of salt
Powdered sugar or cocoa powder for dusting
For Serving (optional):
Whipped cream or fresh berries
Chocolate shavings for garnish
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease an 8-inch springform pan, line the bottom with parchment paper, and lightly butter the sides.
Step 2: Melt Chocolate and Butter
In a heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water (double boiler method), melt the chocolate and butter together.
Stir until smooth and glossy.
Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, and let cool slightly.
Step 3: Beat the Egg Yolks
In a separate large bowl, whisk the egg yolks with 1/2 cup sugar until thick, pale, and creamy.
Gradually stir in the melted chocolate mixture until fully combined.
Step 4: Whip the Egg Whites
In another clean bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until soft peaks form.
Slowly add the remaining 1/4 cup sugar and continue beating until the whites are glossy and hold firm peaks.
Step 5: Fold It All Together
Gently fold one-third of the whipped egg whites into the chocolate mixture to lighten it.
Then carefully fold in the rest of the egg whites until no white streaks remain.
Be gentle — this keeps the batter airy and light like a cloud.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is puffed and cracked, and a skewer inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
As it cools, the center will naturally fall slightly — creating that signature cracked, cloud-like appearance.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool completely in the pan.
The top will settle into a soft, fudgy center beneath a delicate, crisp crust.
Before serving, dust with powdered sugar or cocoa powder.
Slice gently — the texture inside will be beautifully moist and mousse-like.
Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and a few fresh berries for an elegant finish.
🌟 Tips for the Perfect Cloud Cake
Use good-quality chocolate — it’s the heart of the recipe.
Don’t overbake! The center should remain slightly soft.
Let it rest before slicing — it sets more as it cools.
Serve chilled for a dense texture, or at room temperature for a lighter, melt-in-your-mouth feel.
💬 A Little Story Behind the Cake
This flourless “cloud” cake is said to have originated from mid-century European dessert trends, where bakers experimented with removing flour to emphasize the richness of chocolate. Its popularity soared because of its simplicity — transforming humble ingredients into something ethereal.
Many call it the “Queen of Chocolate Cakes”, because it combines the best of all worlds — the crust of a brownie, the softness of a soufflé, and the richness of a truffle.
🍽️ Serving Ideas
Top with raspberries and whipped cream for a Valentine’s Day treat.
Serve with espresso or dessert wine for an elegant dinner finish.
Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a warm-cold contrast that’s irresistible.