From Sourdough Obsession to Cloud Bread Craze
The world has watched sourdough’s popularity soar during the pandemic, with millions of people nurturing bubbly starters on kitchen counters. But in 2025, there’s a new sensation floating above the rest: cloud bread. According to Google Trends, searches for “cloud bread recipe” surged by nearly 300% in the first quarter of 2025, overtaking sourdough for the first time since 2020. Social media platforms like TikTok have played a huge role, with the hashtag #CloudBread hitting over 2 billion views. Baking forums are full of cloud bread experiments, and even major supermarkets are stocking pre-made versions. The pandemic’s legacy of home baking lives on, but tastes have shifted dramatically. People are looking for lighter, fun, and visually stunning alternatives—and cloud bread delivers.
What Exactly Is Cloud Bread?
Cloud bread is a flourless, low-carb bread alternative made primarily from eggs, cream of tartar, and a touch of sweetener or seasonings. Its fluffy, meringue-like texture makes it look almost unreal—hence the name. The bread’s viral appeal is tied closely to its dreamy pastel colors and pillowy softness. According to food scientist Dr. Emily Harper, the science behind its texture is similar to that of a soufflé or meringue: whipped egg whites trap air, creating a soft, airy structure when baked. Cloud bread’s gluten-free nature makes it accessible to many people who couldn’t enjoy traditional bread before. In 2025, colorful variations—think lavender, matcha, and even charcoal—are appearing in bakeries worldwide.
Health Benefits Driving Popularity
One major reason for cloud bread’s meteoric rise is its health profile. Unlike sourdough, which contains gluten and carbs, cloud bread is naturally gluten-free and very low in carbohydrates. According to the National Institutes of Health, gluten-free diets are now followed by nearly 1 in 10 Americans, making cloud bread especially attractive. Dietitians praise its high protein content, since egg whites are the main ingredient. Cloud bread is also low in calories—typically around 30 calories per slice—compared to 80-100 for standard bread. This aligns with wellness trends like the keto and paleo diets, which are projected to grow by over 15% in 2025 according to Market Data Forecast.
Social Media: The Cloud Bread Launchpad
Social media has been the launchpad for cloud bread’s popularity. TikTok and Instagram reels feature bakers stretching, squishing, and coloring cloud bread in mesmerizing ways. According to a 2025 report from Sprout Social, cloud bread content was shared over 50% more than any other food trend in Q1. Influencers like @thebakingblonde and @cloudbreadqueen have amassed millions of followers showcasing unique recipes and decorating techniques. The bread’s photogenic nature—think soft pinks, blues, and swirls—makes it irresistible for sharing. It’s not just about taste; it’s about turning baking into an experience, complete with ASMR-worthy sounds and satisfying visuals.
Easy Recipes for Everyone
Cloud bread’s simplicity is a huge part of its appeal. Unlike sourdough, which requires patience and careful feeding of starters, cloud bread can be whipped up in less than 30 minutes. Recipes usually call for just three primary ingredients: eggs, cream of tartar, and a sweetener or seasoning. Food blogs report that their cloud bread recipe pages have seen traffic increases of up to 500% since the start of 2025. Even novice bakers can achieve fluffy results with minimal effort. The forgiving nature of the recipe means you don’t need special equipment or advanced skills. Quick, easy, and satisfying—cloud bread fits perfectly into modern, fast-paced lifestyles.
Creative Flavors and Customization
In 2025, bakers are taking cloud bread to new heights with creative flavors and customizations. Bakeries across New York and Los Angeles are offering matcha, turmeric, and activated charcoal versions. At-home bakers are swirling in cocoa, adding herbs like rosemary, or dropping in shredded cheese for extra flavor. According to a survey by The Baking Institute, 67% of respondents said they prefer cloud bread for its versatility. Instagram posts showcase ombré loaves, marbled pastels, and even cloud bread “sandwiches” stuffed with everything from smoked salmon to vegan cheese. This flexibility has captured the imagination of a generation that values individuality and self-expression in food.
Nutrition: How Does Cloud Bread Compare?
Nutritionally, cloud bread offers a stark contrast to traditional bread. With almost no carbs and a high protein content, it’s become a staple in the diets of athletes and health-conscious eaters. A slice of cloud bread typically contains less than 1 gram of carbohydrates and about 3 grams of protein, according to the USDA. Sourdough, by comparison, can have 15-20 grams of carbs per slice. For those watching blood sugar or following low-carb protocols, cloud bread is a logical choice. Registered dietitians caution, however, that cloud bread lacks fiber and some micronutrients found in whole grain breads, so variety is still key for balanced nutrition.
The Rise of Cloud Bread Bakeries
In major cities, dedicated cloud bread bakeries are popping up, riding the wave of demand. Chains like The Cloud Bakery in San Francisco and Cloud 9 Breads in London report daily sellouts and waiting lists for custom orders. According to the National Restaurant Association, specialty bakeries featuring gluten-free products saw a 28% increase in revenue in 2025. These bakeries offer not just bread but imaginative pastries, cakes, and even “cloud bagels.” Customers line up for the novelty, but many return for the light, satisfying taste. The business model is thriving, with plans for expansion into more suburban markets by year’s end.
Cloud Bread in Cafés and Restaurants
Cafés and restaurants haven’t missed out on the cloud bread craze. Brunch menus now feature cloud bread French toast, cloud bread club sandwiches, and even cloud bread pizzas. Menu research by the Food Industry Association found that 4 out of 10 new cafés in 2025 offered cloud bread-based dishes. Chefs love its neutral flavor and lightness, which pairs well with both sweet and savory toppings. Vegan and vegetarian options are also on the rise, with aquafaba (chickpea water) replacing eggs for plant-based versions. This restaurant adoption is helping to cement cloud bread’s status as more than just a home-baking fad.
What’s Next for Baking Trends?
Experts predict that cloud bread’s popularity will inspire even more innovation in the baking world. Food futurists at Culinary Insights Inc. suggest that the next big wave could be “cloud-inspired” desserts—think fluffy cakes, soufflés, and whipped confections. The baking aisle is already seeing a spike in sales of pastel food coloring and whipped egg white stabilizers. As health, ease, and aesthetics continue to drive food trends, the demand for playful, photogenic, and wellness-oriented baked goods is expected to grow. The cloud bread phenomenon is a sign that consumers are ready for something lighter, brighter, and just a little bit magical in their kitchens.
