This article dives into the dreamy world of building a fluffy, airy 3-Layer Cloud Cake. You’ll learn why it’s a showstopper, how to prep each layer, assembly tips, flavor variations, FAQs, and a complete recipe card. Ready? Let’s bake beauty and flavor together.
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Why I Love This 3‑Layer Cloud Cake
Every time I make this 3‑Layer Cloud Cake, I feel like I’m crafting edible clouds. The first time was for my niece’s birthday. I whisked egg whites until billowy, folded in sugar, and layered each soft cake with whipped cream frosting topped with berries. As we sliced in and tasted that melting texture, her eyes lit up. That moment taught me that desserts can be light, celebratory, and unforgettable, all in one.
I love layered cakes like the Triple Lemon Layer Cake with Lemon Curd & Creamy Frosting, but this cloud cake brings a feather‑light twist. It’s perfect for spring brunches, baby showers, or anytime you want an elegant dessert without feeling overly rich.
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3-Layer Cloud Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 45 mins
- Yield: 10–12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A light and airy 3‑layer cake made with whipped egg whites and soft frosting—perfect for celebrations.
Ingredients
6 egg whites (room temp)
1¼ cups granulated sugar
1 cup cake flour, sifted
1 tsp cream of tartar
2 cups heavy whipping cream
½ cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup fresh berries (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 160°C (325°F)
2. Beat egg whites + cream of tartar until soft peaks form
3. Gradually add granulated sugar, beat until stiff peaks
4. Fold in sifted cake flour gently
5. Divide batter into three lined 7‑inch pans
6. Bake 20‑25 minutes until tops are pale gold
7. Cool upside‑down on wire racks
8. Whip cream, powdered sugar, vanilla to stiff peaks
9. Layer cakes with cream and berries, frost sides
10. Chill 30 min before slicing
Notes
Bake layers evenly to avoid doming
Use fresh berries for color and flavor
Store cake in fridge up to 2 days
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Whip, Bake, Assemble
- Cuisine: Bakery
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: cloud cake, airy layer cake, whipped egg whites
Ingredients & Prep Guide
Making the Cloud‑Like Layers
You’ll need egg whites, sugar, cake flour, and a hint of cream of tartar. Whip the whites into stiff peaks, then gently fold in sifted flour and sugar. The key is keeping the structure intact—it’s what gives the cake its cloud‑soft texture.
Choosing Fillings & Frostings
The classic choice is whipped cream or stabilized cream cheese frosting. For seasonal flair, swirl in lemon zest or puree for a citrus touch. I sometimes layer in raspberries or blueberries between tiers for fresh flavor and color.
Pan Prep & Baking Tips
Line three 7‑inch pans with parchment, and coat lightly with butter and flour. Bake at 160 °C (325 °F) for 20–25 minutes—watch closely. The edges should be just set and tops a pale golden. Cool upside-down to preserve height.
Assembly & Finishing Techniques
Layer Alignment & Fill Evenness
Once cakes are cool, level them if needed. Place the first layer on a cake board or plate, spread a thin coat of frosting, then add berries. Stack the next layer, repeat, and finish with the final tier. Smooth frosting along the edges for a dreamy, cloud‑like finish.
Decorative Touches & Serving
Top with more berries, edible flowers, or a dusting of icing sugar. Use a hot offset spatula to soften frosting for polished edges. Chill briefly before slicing—it holds its shape and reveals delicate clouds inside.
Flavor Swaps & Presentation Ideas
Citrus Berry Cloud Cake Twist
Add lemon zest and vanilla to the cake batter, then fill with lemon‑flavored whipped frosting and fresh blueberries. It echoes flavors in our Zesty Lemonade Cream Cheese Cake Recipe but with lighter texture.
Mango‑Passion Fruit Cloud Cake
Fold in mango puree into whipped cream filling, and layer passion fruit pulp between tiers. Tropical, tangy, and airy—perfect for summer gatherings.
FAQ
Can I make the layers ahead?
Yes—bake layers a day ahead, wrap them well in plastic, and store at room temperature. Frost the next day for best texture.
Is this cake gluten‑free?
No, but you can swap cake flour for a gluten‑free blend that matches weight. Test bake one layer first.
How do I fix a collapsed layer?
Trim the sunken top flat. Use more frosting between layers to help support the height and balance the tilt.
Can I freeze this cake?
If you frost it with stabilized cream cheese or whipped cream, freeze unfrosted layers tightly wrapped. Thaw in fridge overnight before assembly.
Conclusion
The 3‑Layer Cloud Cake is light, elegant, versatile, and perfect for special moments. Between its fluffy layers, fresh fillings, and pretty presentation, it equals show‑stopping without heaviness. Give it a try for your next celebration. Looking for more sweet inspiration? Try our lovely Mini Lemon Glaze Loaf Cakes or the charming Mini Lemon Loaf Cakes with Glaze.