Air Fryer Cloud Bread: Is It Possible?

Cloud bread is a light and fluffy bread that has gained popularity on TikTok. It is essentially a soft-baked meringue made with eggs, sugar, and cornstarch. While it can be baked in an oven, many people are curious about whether it can be made in an air fryer. The answer is yes! You can make cloud bread in an air fryer by following similar steps as you would for an oven.

To make cloud bread in an air fryer, start by whisking egg whites until frothy. Gradually add sugar while continuing to whisk. Then, add cornstarch and whip until stiff peaks form. Transfer the meringue onto parchment paper and shape it into a circle. Preheat your air fryer to a temperature of around 300°F to 400°F. Place the parchment paper with the meringue into the air fryer and bake for about 15 to 20 minutes.

Air fryers are a great alternative to ovens as they are more energy-efficient, take up less space, and are cheaper to run. Cloud bread made in an air fryer will have a similar fluffy and airy texture as those baked in an oven. So, if you're looking for a fun and easy dessert to make, give cloud bread in an air fryer a try!

Ingredients for cloud bread

Cloud bread is a soft and fluffy bread, like a cloud! It is a great substitute for regular bread and is low in carbs. It is usually made with the following ingredients:

• Eggs
• Cream of Tartar
• Cream Cheese
• Italian Seasoning
• Salt
• Garlic Powder
• Sugar
• Cornstarch
• Food Colouring
• Flavoured Extracts

How to make cloud bread

Ingredients

• 3 large egg whites
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2.5 tablespoons sugar
• Optional: food colouring

Method

• Preheat your air fryer to 140°C for five minutes.
• Separate the egg whites from the egg yolks. Place the whites in a large, clean, grease-free bowl.
• Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, whip the egg whites on medium-low speed until frothy and pale.
• Add the sugar a little at a time, continuing to mix on high speed until the sugar dissolves and the mixture becomes foamy.
• Sift in the cornstarch and continue to mix on high speed until the mixture becomes a glossy, thick meringue that holds its shape. The mixture should be creamy, like shaving cream.
• Use a rubber spatula to scoop the meringue out of the bowl and shape it into a circle on a sheet of parchment paper.
• Place the parchment paper and meringue into your preheated air fryer and bake for 20 minutes.
• Enjoy your cloud bread!

Tips

• You can add food colouring and flavoured extracts, such as vanilla or lemon extract, along with the cornstarch.
• If you want to add chocolate chips, carefully fold them into the mixture once stiff peaks have formed.
• Make sure your utensils are completely clean and free from oil or fat residue.
• Separate your eggs while they are cold, but allow them to reach room temperature before beating them.
• Add the sugar gradually, 1 tablespoon at a time, for fluffier meringue.
• Don't over-beat the mixture, or your cloud bread won't be fluffy.

How to store cloud bread

Cloud bread should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be kept for up to five days, although the texture is best if eaten within 12 hours of baking.

You can also freeze cloud bread in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. Allow the bread to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Different ways to use cloud bread

Cloud bread is a versatile food item that can be used in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas for how to use cloud bread:

• Toast: Top with butter or honey. But be careful when toasting as cloud bread can quickly burn.
• Soup: Dip your cloud bread into a veggie-based soup for a healthy and tasty treat.
• Pizza: Make mini pizzas using cloud bread as the base. You can add your favourite toppings and pop them in the oven for a quick and easy meal.
• Breadsticks: Sprinkle with cheese and a drizzle of olive oil or butter, then bake to make delicious, crispy breadsticks.
• Sandwiches: Cloud bread's light and fluffy texture makes it perfect for sandwiches, especially if you're following a low-carb or gluten-free diet.
• Breakfast: Use cloud bread instead of regular toast for a low-carb breakfast option. Top with your favourite spread, or make cloud bread French toast!
• Dessert: While cloud bread is not very sweet, you can serve it with whipped cream and fruit for a light and airy dessert.

Can you make fry bread in an air fryer?

Yes, you can make fry bread in an air fryer! This cooking method allows you to achieve a crispy texture without deep frying in oil, making it healthier. Air fryers circulate hot air around food, helping to create a fried finish with less fat.

To make fry bread in an air fryer, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (optional)
• Water, approximately 3/4 cup

• Mix the dry ingredients: Combine flour, baking powder, and salt (optional) in a large mixing bowl.
• Add water and knead the dough: Gradually add warm water to the dry mixture and mix until a rough dough forms. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
• Divide and shape the dough: Cut the dough into equal-sized pieces, about the size of a golf ball. Flatten them into discs about 1/4 inch thick.
• Preheat the air fryer: Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
• Arrange and cook the fry bread: Lightly grease the air fryer basket to prevent sticking. Place the shaped fry bread discs into the basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even cooking.
• Enjoy: Once the fry bread is golden brown, remove it from the air fryer and let it cool slightly before serving. You can enjoy it plain or with toppings such as honey, powdered sugar, or savory options like chili or beans.

Some tips for success:

• Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper for easier cleanup and to prevent sticking.
• Monitor cooking times as air fryers can vary.
• Experiment with the thickness of your fry bread. Thicker pieces will be softer, while thinner pieces will be crispier.
• Avoid overworking the dough as it can lead to a tough texture.
• Adjust the flour-to-water ratio if needed to ensure the dough is neither too sticky nor too dry.

Frequently asked questions