Name: Japanese Cloud Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 250g white chocolate; 6 eggs, separated; 250g cream cheese, at room temperature; Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

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Short description

I’m excited to share a light and airy Japanese Cloud Cake—an indulgent dessert made with white chocolate, cream cheese, and softly whipped egg whites. This cloud-like cake balances creaminess and fluffiness, perfect for a delightful treat.

Japanese Cloud Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I adore how this cake feels like biting into a cloud—moist, tender, and subtly sweet. The blend of white chocolate and cream cheese creates a velvety texture and elegant flavor. Plus, the bain‑marie baking method ensures a beautifully risen, jiggly center with a delicate crumb.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

250 g white chocolate (choose a high-quality one for richness)
6 eggs, separated
250 g cream cheese, at room temperature
Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

directions

Prepare the pan
I grease a 20 cm high‑edged cake pan and line the bottom and sides with parchment paper for easy removal.
Set up the bain-marie
I boil water in a larger pan—this will go under the cake pan.
Melt white chocolate
I gently melt the white chocolate over the bain-marie, stirring often to prevent scorching. Once smooth, I let it cool slightly.
Separate eggs
I separate the egg yolks from the whites. I chill the whites to help them whip up nicely.
Combine cream cheese
I beat the cream cheese into the melted chocolate until smooth and lump‑free.
Add egg yolks
I incorporate the yolks one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
Whip the egg whites
I remove the whites from the fridge and beat them until they’re glossy with firm peaks.
Fold in whites
I gently fold the egg whites into the chocolate‑cheese base using a spatula, scooping from the bottom and lifting up to preserve the airiness.
Bake in the bain-marie
I pour the batter into the prepared pan, place it inside the larger pan, and pour boiling water halfway up the sides. I bake at 170 °C for 15 minutes, then lower to 160 °C for another 15 minutes. I turn off the oven and let the cake rest inside for 15 more minutes.
Cool and decorate
I let the cake cool completely before unmolding and dust it lightly with confectioners’ sugar.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 slices (approximately)
Total time: ~1 hour 15 minutes
- Prep: 20 minutes
- Bake + resting: 45 minutes
- Cooling: 10 minutes

Variations

Swap the white chocolate for milk chocolate for a richer taste.
Stir in a teaspoon of matcha powder to the batter for a fragrant twist.
Top with fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries for a fruity contrast.
Add vanilla extract or almond extract for extra flavor depth.

storage/reheating

I store any leftovers in the fridge, covered, for up to 3 days. Before serving, I let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. For a warm treat, I gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds—careful not to melt the texture.

FAQs

What causes the cake to be jiggly after baking?

The gentle baking and resting in the closed oven help the cake set slowly, creating that signature wobbly center. It will firm up as it cools.

Can I use low‑fat cream cheese?

I recommend full‑fat for the creamiest texture. Low‑fat versions may yield a denser consistency.

Why is the bain‑marie necessary?

The water bath provides even, moist heat, preventing cracks and ensuring a tender, delicate crumb.

How should I store this cake?

I leave it covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. Always let it come to room temperature before enjoying.

Can I freeze this cake?

Yes. I freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic and placed in a sealed container for up to 1 month. I thaw in the fridge overnight and warm slightly before serving.

Conclusion

I hope this recipe brings you the same delight I feel when baking Japanese Cloud Cake—light, dreamy, and subtly sweet. Its fluffy texture, creamy flavor, and elegant presentation make it a standout dessert. Enjoy each cloud-like bite!