If you’ve ever wanted to elevate your breakfast game with something both stunning to look at and delicious to eat, this Cloud Eggs with Cheddar Cheese and Runny Yolk Recipe is your new go-to. Imagine fluffy, billowy clouds of whipped egg whites baked to perfection, crowned with a rich, molten yolk and sharp cheddar that melts right into every bite. It’s a breakfast that feels fancy yet is surprisingly simple to make—perfect for weekends, brunches, or anytime you crave something special and satisfying. Get ready to create a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to savor!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keeping the ingredients straightforward and wholesome is what makes this Cloud Eggs with Cheddar Cheese and Runny Yolk Recipe shine. Each component plays a key role in delivering the ideal texture, flavor, and color that make this dish a memorable breakfast treat.
- 6 large eggs: Fresh eggs are essential for fluffy whites and vibrant, ribbon-like yolks that contrast beautifully.
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese: This adds a savory, creamy note that melts into the egg whites for an irresistible finish.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Simple seasonings that bring out the natural flavors without overpowering the delicate eggs.
How to Make Cloud Eggs with Cheddar Cheese and Runny Yolk Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF. While it warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this ensures your cloud eggs won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze. Having everything set up beforehand makes the process smooth and stress-free.
Step 2: Separate the Eggs Carefully
The secret to fluffy cloud eggs lies in separating the yolks from the whites with care. Place all the whites in a large mixing bowl and transfer each yolk gently to a small bowl. This way, your yolks stay intact and ready for their cozy nests in the whipped egg whites.
Step 3: Whip the Egg Whites to Stiff Peaks
Using a stand mixer with a whisk attachment or a handheld mixer, beat those egg whites on medium-high speed until they form stiff peaks—that is, when you lift the beaters, the whites hold their shape firmly. This fluffy foundation is what gives your cloud eggs that incredible lift and lightness.
Step 4: Fold in Cheddar Cheese and Seasoning
Gently fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and a pinch of salt with a spatula. Be delicate here because you want to preserve all that air you just whipped into the whites. The cheese adds layers of flavor and a slight tang that balances the richness of the yolk perfectly.
Step 5: Shape the Egg Whites on the Baking Sheet
Spoon the cheesy whipped egg whites onto the parchment-lined sheet in six even mounds. Since these clouds don’t rise more in the oven, shape them exactly how you want their final look. Use the back of a spoon to create a shallow well in the center of each mound—this little nest is where your yolk will rest later.
Step 6: Bake and Add the Yolks
Bake the egg white clouds for 6 minutes, just until they’re set and no longer jiggle when you tap them. Then carefully place a yolk into each well and return the tray to the oven for another 4 to 5 minutes. This step is crucial to achieving yolks that are set along the edges but gloriously runny inside—pure breakfast bliss!
How to Serve Cloud Eggs with Cheddar Cheese and Runny Yolk Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes really elevate this dish. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives over the clouds for a pop of green and fresh flavor. You can even add a pinch of smoked paprika or cracked black pepper to enhance the taste and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
Cloud eggs go beautifully with toasted artisan bread or crispy bacon for some savory crunch. Avocado slices or a light salad with a lemon vinaigrette add freshness and balance out the richness of the eggs and cheese.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve these clouds atop a bed of sautéed spinach or crispy hash browns. Alternatively, nestle them on English muffins and drizzle with hot sauce or hollandaise for a luxurious brunch experience that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers—which might be rare—store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They keep well for up to 2 days but are best enjoyed fresh to preserve that light texture and runny yolk.
Freezing
Because of the delicate texture and runny yolk, freezing cloud eggs is not recommended. The egg whites tend to lose their fluffiness, and yolks can become grainy after thawing, which takes away from the dish’s charm.
Reheating
To reheat leftover cloud eggs, gently warm them in a microwave at low power or in a warm oven for just a minute or two. Be careful not to overheat, as this will cook the yolk too much and dry out the whites.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in this Cloud Eggs with Cheddar Cheese and Runny Yolk Recipe?
Absolutely! While cheddar adds a nice sharpness, you can try parmesan for a nuttier flavor, or mozzarella if you prefer a milder, creamier texture. Just be sure to use a cheese that melts well.
What if I don’t have a mixer to whip the egg whites?
Whipping egg whites by hand with a whisk is possible but requires some elbow grease and patience. It can take several minutes to achieve stiff peaks, so be prepared for a bit of a workout!
How can I tell when the egg whites have reached stiff peaks?
When you lift the beaters out of the whites, the peaks should stand straight up without drooping, and the mixture should look glossy and firm. It should hold its shape well on the spoon too.
Can this recipe be made vegan or dairy-free?
This particular recipe relies on eggs and cheddar for its signature texture and taste, so it’s tough to replicate exactly vegan or dairy-free. However, you might experiment with aquafaba (chickpea water) and vegan cheese for a similar effect.
Is it okay if the yolks cook a little more?
If you prefer less runny yolks, you can extend the baking time slightly. Just keep a close eye to avoid overcooking, as the yolks can firm up quickly, losing that glorious creamy center.
Final Thoughts
This Cloud Eggs with Cheddar Cheese and Runny Yolk Recipe is truly a game changer for breakfast lovers seeking something unique and impressive yet easy enough to whip up any day. Its light, airy texture combined with melty cheese and luscious yolks is nothing short of magical. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making it again and again, sharing this delight with everyone you care about.
Print
Cloud Eggs with Cheddar Cheese and Runny Yolk Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Cloud Eggs are a light and airy breakfast delight featuring whipped egg whites baked to perfection with a cheesy twist, topped with a runny yolk. This fun and elegant dish is quick to prepare and perfect for a protein-packed start to your day.
Ingredients
Eggs
- 6 large eggs
Cheese and Seasoning
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh chives (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and set it aside.
- Separate Eggs: Carefully separate the egg whites and yolks into two different bowls—whites in a large bowl and yolks in a small bowl. Be sure no yolk mixes with the whites as this will affect whipping.
- Whip Egg Whites: Using a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment or a handheld mixer on medium-high speed, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. This means they should hold shape firmly without collapsing.
- Fold in Cheese and Salt: Gently fold the shredded cheddar cheese and a pinch of salt into the whipped egg whites using a spatula. Do this carefully to maintain the aeration and fluffiness.
- Form Egg Whites: Spoon the whipped egg whites onto the prepared baking sheet into six even mounds. Shape them exactly as you want them because they won’t rise much during baking.
- Create Wells for Yolks: Using the back of a spoon, make a shallow well or indentation at the center of each mound for the yolks.
- Initial Bake: Place the tray in the oven and bake for 6 minutes, or until the whites are set and no longer jiggle when tapped.
- Add Yolks: Carefully add one egg yolk into each well you created in the baked whites.
- Final Bake: Return the tray to the oven and bake for an additional 4 to 5 minutes until the yolks are just set but remain slightly runny.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with fresh parsley and chives if desired. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Ensure no yolks get into the whites before whipping to achieve proper stiffness.
- Use fresh eggs for best results as they whip up better.
- Watch the yolks carefully during the final bake to avoid overcooking.
- Feel free to customize the cheese type or add herbs for different flavors.
- Serve immediately as the texture is best when freshly baked.
