Name: Cloud Bread Pizza
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 28 min
Total time: 43 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 large egg whites, room temperature; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional); Pizza sauce, for topping; Shredded cheese, for topping; Toppings of choice (pepperoni, olives, vegetables, etc.); Cooking spray, for greasing

A light and fluffy alternative to traditional pizza crust, Cloud Bread Pizza offers all the flavors you love with a fraction of the carbs and calories. This creative recipe transforms whipped egg whites into a deliciously airy base that’s perfect for your favorite pizza toppings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This innovative cloud bread pizza is a game-changer for anyone looking to enjoy pizza while cutting back on carbs or gluten. The pillowy crust is surprisingly satisfying, with a light texture that still holds up well to toppings. It’s incredibly simple to make with just a few basic ingredients, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or a fun cooking project with kids. Health-conscious diners will appreciate that this pizza base is high in protein and low in calories, making it an excellent option for balanced eating without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Egg whites form the foundation of this cloud bread pizza, creating that signature light and airy texture when whipped to stiff peaks. They’re packed with protein and contain no fat, making them a healthy alternative to traditional flour-based crusts.

Cornstarch might seem like an unusual addition, but it helps stabilize the whipped egg whites and gives the cloud bread structure, allowing it to hold up under your toppings without collapsing.

Italian seasoning infuses the cloud bread base with classic pizza flavors. This herb blend typically includes oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary, bringing authentic Italian taste to your crust.

Pizza sauce adds that essential tomato-based flavor that defines a good pizza. You can use store-bought or homemade depending on your preference and time constraints.

Shredded cheese melts beautifully over the cloud bread crust. While mozzarella is traditional for pizza, you can experiment with cheddar, provolone, or a blend of your favorites for different flavor profiles.

Toppings offer endless customization possibilities. From classic pepperoni to vegetables, olives, or even pineapple (if you dare!), you can personalize your cloud bread pizza to suit your taste preferences.

Cooking spray ensures your cloud bread won’t stick to the parchment paper, making it easy to remove and serve once baked to perfection.

Directions

Preheat the oven to 320°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly grease the paper with cooking spray.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer until soft-medium peaks form. Gradually add the cornstarch and continue beating until stiff, glossy peaks form. Gently fold in the Italian seasoning if using.
Spoon the whipped egg whites onto the prepared baking sheet and spread into a round pizza shape about ½-inch thick.
Bake for 20 minutes, until the base is golden brown and firm.
Remove from the oven and spread a thin layer of pizza sauce over the crust. Sprinkle with shredded cheese and add your desired toppings.
Lightly spray the edges of the cloud bread with cooking spray to help it crisp up.
Return the pizza to the oven and bake for another 7-8 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Slice and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 slices, making it perfect for a personal pizza or light meal for two people. The preparation takes about 15 minutes, primarily for whipping the egg whites to the perfect consistency. Cooking time is 28 minutes total (20 minutes for the crust and 8 minutes after adding toppings). From start to finish, you can have this cloud bread pizza ready in just 43 minutes. Each slice contains approximately 110 calories before adding toppings, making it a lighter option compared to traditional pizza.

Variations

Keto Cloud Bread Pizza: Skip the cornstarch and use cream of tartar instead to stabilize the egg whites. Add a tablespoon of cream cheese for richness and structure.

Mediterranean Cloud Bread Pizza: Top with olive oil instead of pizza sauce, then add feta cheese, sliced olives, cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of oregano for a Greek-inspired variation.

Breakfast Cloud Bread Pizza: After baking the base, top with scrambled eggs and cheese for a morning-friendly version.

Dessert Cloud Bread Pizza: Omit the Italian seasoning and top the baked cloud bread with Nutella, sliced strawberries, and a light dusting of powdered sugar.

Buffalo Chicken Cloud Bread Pizza: Top with buffalo sauce instead of pizza sauce, then add shredded rotisserie chicken, mozzarella, and blue cheese crumbles.

Storage/Reheating

The cloud bread pizza base is best enjoyed fresh, as it tends to lose its texture when stored. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

To reheat, avoid the microwave as it can make the crust soggy. Instead, place the leftover pizza on a baking sheet and warm it in a preheated oven at 275°F (135°C) for about 5-7 minutes until heated through. The lower temperature prevents the egg white crust from becoming rubbery.

For make-ahead options, you can prepare the cloud bread base and bake it, then cool completely before wrapping tightly and freezing for up to 1 month. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then add toppings before the final bake.

FAQs

Why did my cloud bread pizza collapse after baking?

This typically happens when the egg whites weren’t whipped to stiff enough peaks before baking. Make sure you beat until they’re glossy and hold their shape firmly. Also, avoid opening the oven during the initial baking period, as temperature fluctuations can cause the structure to collapse.

Can I use a hand whisk instead of an electric mixer?

While possible, whipping egg whites to stiff peaks by hand requires significant effort and time. An electric mixer is highly recommended for best results and to prevent arm fatigue.

Is cloud bread pizza gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it doesn’t contain any wheat flour. Just ensure your cornstarch is processed in a gluten-free facility if you have celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivity.

Can I make cloud bread pizza ahead of time?

For best results, the cloud bread crust should be baked just before serving. However, you can prepare all your toppings ahead of time to streamline the process.

What can I use instead of cornstarch?

Arrowroot powder or tapioca starch can work as substitutes in equal amounts. If following a keto diet, xanthan gum (use just 1/4 teaspoon) or cream of tartar (1/2 teaspoon) can help stabilize the egg whites instead.

Why is my cloud bread pizza soggy in the middle?

This could be due to spreading the base too thick or adding too much sauce. Ensure your cloud bread base is an even 1/2-inch thickness throughout, and use a thin layer of sauce to prevent moisture from making the crust soggy.

Can I double this recipe for a larger pizza?

Yes, you can double the ingredients for a larger pizza. However, for best results, bake two separate pizzas rather than one large one, as a larger cloud bread crust may not cook evenly.

What’s the best way to get stiff peaks when whipping egg whites?

Make sure your bowl and beaters are completely clean and free from any grease or yolk residue. Room temperature egg whites whip better than cold ones. Start at a medium speed and gradually increase to high, and add the cornstarch slowly while beating.

Can I add herbs or spices directly to the cloud bread base?

Absolutely! Beyond Italian seasoning, you can experiment with garlic powder, onion powder, or even a pinch of cayenne for heat. Just fold them in gently after achieving stiff peaks to avoid deflating the mixture.

Is cloud bread pizza suitable for freezing?

While you can freeze the baked cloud bread base before adding toppings, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. For best results, freeze the base flat on a baking sheet until solid, then wrap well. Thaw in the refrigerator before adding toppings and completing the final bake.

Conclusion

Cloud Bread Pizza offers a creative and health-conscious way to enjoy the flavors of pizza without the heaviness of traditional dough. This innovative recipe transforms simple ingredients into a delightfully light and airy crust that serves as the perfect canvas for your favorite toppings. Whether you’re following a low-carb eating plan, looking for gluten-free alternatives, or simply wanting to try something new, this cloud bread pizza delivers on both taste and texture. The protein-rich base provides satisfying substance while keeping calories in check, making it an excellent addition to your weeknight dinner rotation. With endless possibilities for customization, this versatile recipe might just become your new go-to for quick, nutritious meals that don’t sacrifice flavor or fun.