Save Elevate your morning routine with these Cloud Bread Breakfast Clouds, a light and airy dish that feels as indulgent as it is nutritious. This recipe features pillowy mounds of baked egg whites, seasoned to perfection and topped with the creamy richness of sliced avocado and soft-poached eggs for a high-protein, gluten-free start to your day.
Save Modern American cuisine often finds beauty in simple transformations, and this dish is no exception. By whipping egg whites into stiff peaks and baking them, you create a unique "cloud" base that serves as the perfect vessel for a classic poached egg breakfast.
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs, separated
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 2 ripe avocados, sliced
- 4 large eggs (for poaching)
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar (for poaching water)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh chives, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2
- Separate the 4 eggs, placing whites in one large, clean bowl and yolks in separate small bowls.
- Step 3
- Add cream of tartar and a pinch of salt to the egg whites. Using an electric mixer, beat the whites until stiff peaks form.
- Step 4
- Gently fold in black pepper and Parmesan cheese (if using).
- Step 5
- Spoon the whipped egg whites onto the prepared baking sheet in 4 mounds. Use the back of a spoon to create a small well in the center of each mound.
- Step 6
- Bake for 5 minutes, then carefully add one yolk into each well. Return to oven and bake for another 4-5 minutes, or until the whites are set and lightly golden.
- Step 7
- Meanwhile, bring a saucepan of water to a gentle simmer. Add vinegar. Crack each egg into a small bowl, then gently slide into the simmering water. Poach for 3–4 minutes until whites are set but yolks remain runny. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Step 8
- To serve, top each cloud bread with avocado slices and a poached egg. Season with salt, pepper, and optional garnishes.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For an extra kick of flavor, consider sprinkling smoked paprika or your favorite dried herbs over the clouds before they go into the oven. If you want to boost the fiber content, add a layer of sautéed spinach between the cloud bread and the avocado slices.
Varianten und Anpassungen
This recipe is highly adaptable; the Parmesan cheese can be easily omitted for a completely dairy-free version. When shopping, always check ingredient labels for possible cross-contamination if you have severe egg or dairy allergies.
Serviervorschläge
Complete this healthy morning meal by serving the clouds alongside a fresh side of mixed greens or juicy sliced tomatoes. The acidity of the vegetables perfectly balances the rich fats of the avocado and egg yolks.
Save Whether you are hosting a weekend brunch or looking for a high-protein meal to start your weekday, these Cloud Bread Breakfast Clouds provide a satisfying and visually stunning experience that takes only 30 minutes from start to finish.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I get stiff peaks when whipping egg whites?
Use room-temperature eggs and ensure your mixing bowl is completely clean and dry. Add cream of tartar to stabilize the whites, then use an electric mixer on high speed. You'll know they're ready when peaks stand upright when you lift the beaters.
- → Can I make this without Parmesan cheese?
Yes, Parmesan is optional and can be omitted for a dairy-free version. The egg whites will still puff beautifully. For extra flavor without cheese, try adding smoked paprika, fresh herbs like dill, or red pepper flakes before baking.
- → What's the best way to poach an egg?
Bring water to a gentle simmer with a splash of white vinegar, which helps the egg whites set quickly. Crack each egg into a small bowl first, then gently slide it into the water. Cook for 3-4 minutes until whites are set but yolks remain runny. Use a slotted spoon to remove.
- → Can I prepare the cloud bases ahead of time?
You can whip the egg whites up to 30 minutes before baking, but it's best to bake them shortly after whipping to maintain maximum volume. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheat gently in a 300°F oven.
- → How do I prevent the egg yolks from overcooking?
Bake at 350°F for the times specified—5 minutes for whites, then 4-5 minutes with yolks added. The yolks should still have some jiggle when removed. If you prefer runnier yolks, check around the 3-minute mark after adding them.
- → What vegetables pair well as sides?
Mixed greens, fresh tomato slices, and sautéed spinach are excellent accompaniments. You can also layer the spinach beneath the avocado for added fiber and nutrients, or serve alongside roasted asparagus or fresh berries for variety.