why make this recipe

Grandmother’s Cloud Cake is a delightful and airy dessert that is sure to impress. This cake is light and fluffy, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a family gathering, a birthday party, or just a sweet treat for yourself, this cake is a great choice. It combines simple ingredients to create a comforting and nostalgic flavor that many of us associate with our childhood. Its soft texture and subtle sweetness will have everyone asking for seconds!

how to make Grandmother’s Cloud Cake

Ingredients :

• 250 g all-purpose flour (sifted)
• 4 eggs (ideally at room temperature)
• 150 g sugar
• 100 g melted butter (just warm)
• 1 packet baking powder (11 g)
• 1 pinch of salt
• 200 ml milk (preferably whole)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of one lemon (optional, preferably organic)

Directions :

Step 1: Preheat the oven and prepare the mold. Start by turning on your oven to 180°C (thermostat 6). While it heats up, take your favorite baking pan (a round pan of about 22-24 cm works best). Generously butter the pan and sprinkle it with flour. Tap it to remove any excess flour.

Step 2: Make the airy base. In a large bowl, crack the 4 eggs and add the 150 g of sugar. Using an electric whisk or a manual whisk, beat the mixture vigorously for 3 to 5 minutes until it becomes pale, thick, and fluffy, doubling in volume.

Step 3: Add the first liquids. Carefully pour in the warm melted butter and the teaspoon of vanilla extract into the bowl with the egg-sugar mix. Fold them in gently.

Step 4: Prepare the dry ingredients. In another bowl, combine the sifted flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.

Step 5: Alternate mixing wet and dry ingredients. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mix while alternating with the milk. Start and finish with the dry ingredients. Incorporate a portion of the flour mixture with a spatula (or at a very low speed with a whisk) until just combined. Then add some milk and mix. Continue this pattern until all ingredients are incorporated into a smooth batter. Be careful not to over-mix.

Step 6: Add a fresh touch (optional). If you choose to add lemon zest, gently fold it into the batter.

Step 7: Pour into the mold! Transfer your batter to the prepared pan. You can gently tap the pan on the counter to ensure the batter spreads evenly.

Step 8: Baking. Place the pan in the oven and bake for about 35 to 40 minutes. Keep an eye on it as baking times may vary based on your oven.

Step 9: Final test. After 35 minutes, check the center of the cake with the tip of a knife or a toothpick. If it comes out clean and dry, the cake is done. If there’s any wet batter, extend the baking time in 5-minute increments, checking each time.

Step 10: Cooling down. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 5 to 10 minutes. Carefully turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

how to serve Grandmother’s Cloud Cake

You can serve Grandmother’s Cloud Cake plain for a simple treat, or dust it with powdered sugar for a nice touch. It pairs well with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream. For a cozy touch, serve it with a cup of tea or coffee.

how to store Grandmother’s Cloud Cake

To store your Cloud Cake, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.

tips to make Grandmother’s Cloud Cake

1. Make sure your eggs are at room temperature; they whip better and result in a fluffier cake.
2. Don’t over-mix the batter; it’s okay if there are a few lumps left.
3. If you’re using a dark pan, you may want to reduce the baking temperature by about 20 degrees Celsius to prevent over-browning.
4. Feel free to experiment with different flavors by adding other extracts or zest, like orange or almond.

variation

You can add chocolate chips or chunks to the batter for a chocolatey twist. Alternatively, combining ground nuts or spices such as cinnamon can also add a unique flavor.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat milk instead of whole milk?
Yes, you can use low-fat milk or even non-dairy milk, but whole milk gives the best flavor and texture.

What can I use instead of butter?
You can substitute melted coconut oil or a vegetable oil blend for a dairy-free version.

Can I freeze Cloud Cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake for up to three months. Just wrap it well in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container. Thaw it at room temperature before serving.