Description

This Cloud Eggs recipe creates light, fluffy eggs with a unique presentation and delightful texture. Whipped egg whites form airy mounds that are baked and topped with runny or set yolks, enhanced by flavorful variations such as Ham & Swiss, Garlic & Parmesan, Bacon & Cheddar, or Gruyere & Chives. Perfect for a special breakfast or brunch, these eggs are simple to make yet impressive to serve.

Ingredients

Basic Ingredients

4 large eggs
¼ teaspoon sea salt
⅛ teaspoon black pepper

Ham & Swiss Variation

¼ cup diced deli ham
½ cup grated Swiss cheese

Garlic & Parmesan Variation

½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Bacon & Cheddar Variation

¼ cup crumbled cooked bacon
½ cup grated cheddar cheese

Gruyere & Chives Variation

½ cup grated Gruyere cheese
2 tablespoons chopped chives

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Instructions

Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Separate Eggs: Carefully separate the egg whites from the yolks. Place the whites in a large mixing bowl and keep each yolk in its own small bowl or one bowl if handling cautiously, as they will be added later.
Whip Egg Whites: Using a hand mixer, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. This means the whites should stand up firmly without collapsing when the beaters are lifted.
Fold in Seasonings and Toppings: Gently fold in the sea salt, black pepper, and your choice of flavor variation ingredients into the whipped egg whites. Use a spatula to carefully combine without deflating the whites.
Create Clouds: Spoon the fluffy egg white mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in four mounds. Make a small well in the center of each mound to hold the egg yolk later.
Initial Baking: Bake the egg white mounds for 3 minutes at 450°F to set the base and firm up slightly before adding the yolks.
Add Yolks and Finish Baking: Carefully place one reserved egg yolk into each center well. Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, or until the yolks reach your desired doneness.

Notes

Be gentle when folding in ingredients to maintain the egg whites’ fluffiness.
Use fresh eggs for the best volume in your whipped whites.
Cook times can vary depending on your oven and preferred yolk consistency; watch closely.
Feel free to customize toppings to suit dietary preferences or what you have on hand.
If you prefer firmer yolks, bake a little longer but be careful not to overcook the whites.