Cottage Cheese Cloud Bread is a light, fluffy, and high-protein alternative to traditional bread, making it a great choice for those following low-carb, gluten-free, or keto diets. Its airy texture is created by whipping egg whites to stiff peaks, which then gently combine with cottage cheese, egg yolks, and other simple ingredients to create a bread-like consistency without using flour or yeast. Unlike dense or heavy bread, this cloud bread is light as air, with a soft, pillowy bite that can be used in a variety of ways.

The flavor is subtly tangy, thanks to the cottage cheese, while the cream of tartar helps stabilize the egg whites, keeping them from collapsing as they bake. It’s the perfect bread replacement for anyone looking for a healthier option that’s still delicious and versatile. You can eat it plain, top it with your favorite spreads, or use it as a base for sandwiches or breakfast toast. Whether you’re looking for a snack or a low-carb alternative to your usual bread, this recipe is sure to impress.

Ready in: 30 minutes
Serves: 6 (Makes about 6 small breads)

Ingredients:

• ½ cup cottage cheese: Adds richness and protein to the bread, providing a slightly tangy flavor and creamy texture.
• 3 large eggs, separated: The egg whites provide the light, fluffy texture, while the yolks add richness and flavor.
• ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar: Stabilizes the whipped egg whites, helping them maintain their fluffy structure during baking.
• ½ teaspoon baking powder: Helps the bread rise and become fluffy.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors of the bread and balances the richness of the cottage cheese.
• ½ teaspoon honey (optional): Adds a subtle sweetness to the bread, but it’s optional if you prefer a more savory option.

Instructions:

1. Preheat & Prep:
   • Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This ensures the bread doesn’t stick to the baking sheet and helps with easy removal once baked.
2. Whip Egg Whites:
   • In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar with an electric mixer on high speed until stiff peaks form. This process is critical for the fluffy, cloud-like texture of the bread. The egg whites should stand up straight when you lift the beaters out of the bowl. Take your time with this step to ensure the egg whites are well-beaten and stable.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients:
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the cottage cheese, egg yolks, baking powder, salt, and honey (if using). You want to create a smooth mixture without lumps, as the cottage cheese should be fully incorporated into the mixture. The egg yolks provide moisture and richness to the bread, while the cottage cheese adds creaminess.
4. Fold Gently:
   • Carefully fold the whipped egg whites into the cottage cheese mixture using a spatula. Be very gentle during this step—overmixing or stirring too aggressively can deflate the air you’ve worked so hard to incorporate into the egg whites. The goal is to maintain the fluffiness while combining the ingredients.
5. Shape the Clouds:
   • Using a spoon or cookie scoop, scoop out the mixture and place it onto the prepared baking sheet. Shape the dollops into small rounds, about 3 inches in diameter, resembling “clouds.” Be sure to leave space between each cloud to allow for even baking.
6. Bake:
   • Bake the cloud bread in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the bread feels set to the touch. The cloud bread should have a slightly crisp top with a soft, airy interior. If you tap the surface, it should feel firm but not doughy.
7. Cool & Enjoy:
   • Allow the cloud bread to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps prevent any moisture from making the bread soggy. Once cool, enjoy your fluffy cloud bread as is or with your favorite toppings!

Variations:

• Savory Version:
  Add ½ teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon dried herbs (like oregano or thyme), or ¼ cup shredded cheese to the batter for a more savory bread. You could also stir in some cooked, crumbled bacon or sautéed onions for added flavor.
• Sweet Version:
  For a sweeter take on cloud bread, mix in ½ teaspoon cinnamon and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. You can also drizzle the bread with a little honey or maple syrup after baking for a delicious, low-carb treat.
• Dairy-Free Option:
  If you’re avoiding dairy, you can swap the cottage cheese with a blended silken tofu for a similar creamy texture. Use a dairy-free cream cheese or yogurt for added richness if needed.
• Extra Protein Boost:
  For an additional protein boost, consider adding a scoop of unflavored or vanilla protein powder to the cottage cheese mixture. This will slightly alter the texture but will provide a higher protein content without significantly affecting the taste.

Tips:

• Stiff Peaks Are Key:
  The key to light, fluffy cloud bread is ensuring that the egg whites are whipped to stiff peaks. If the peaks aren’t stiff enough, the bread won’t rise properly, and you’ll lose the light, airy texture. Make sure your bowl and beaters are completely dry and free from any oil or water, as this can prevent the egg whites from whipping correctly.
• Fold, Don’t Stir:
  When folding the egg whites into the cottage cheese mixture, use a light hand. Overmixing will deflate the air in the egg whites, making the bread dense instead of light and fluffy.
• Storage:
  Cloud bread can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To refresh the bread, toast it in the oven or use a toaster to warm it up and bring back its texture.
• Freezing:
  Cloud bread also freezes very well. Store it in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container, and when you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it on the counter or toast it directly from the freezer for a quick snack or meal.

Conclusion:
Fluffy, light, and endlessly versatile, this Cottage Cheese Cloud Bread is a fantastic bread alternative. It’s perfect for anyone looking to enjoy bread without the carbs and can be made into both savory and sweet variations. Whether you’re following a keto, low-carb, or gluten-free diet or just looking for a healthy, high-protein snack, this recipe is a must-try. Simple, quick, and delicious, it’s a great way to enjoy a bread-like experience that won’t weigh you down!