Nubes de Queso (Cheese Clouds) [Gluten-Free, No Flour]

These light, airy cheese clouds are perfect for a quick snack or side dish. With no flour, they are naturally gluten-free, and their cheesy flavor will have everyone coming back for more. The best part? You can make them in just one minute!

Preparation Time: 1 minute
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 12 cheese clouds

Ingredients

  • 100 g (1 cup) shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or a mix)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • A pinch of salt (optional, depending on the saltiness of the cheese)

Directions

  1. Preheat and Prepare:
    • Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  2. Mix Ingredients:
    • In a medium bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. Add the shredded cheese, baking powder, and a pinch of salt if needed. Mix until everything is well combined.
  3. Form the Clouds:
    • Scoop small spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking tray, spacing them about 2 inches apart. The batter will spread a little as it bakes, so keep the scoops small.
  4. Bake:
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese clouds are puffed up and golden brown around the edges.
  5. Serve:
    • Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm for the best flavor and texture!

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve these cheese clouds as a side to soups or salads, or enjoy them on their own as a snack.
  • Perfect for dipping in marinara sauce, guacamole, or a spicy aioli.

Cooking Tips

  • Cheese Choice: Use any shredded cheese you like. Cheddar will add sharpness, mozzarella for a milder taste, or a blend for more complexity.
  • Herbs and Spices: Customize your cheese clouds with herbs like oregano, rosemary, or spices like garlic powder for added flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

  • High in Protein: Thanks to the eggs and cheese, these clouds are rich in protein.
  • Gluten-Free: Naturally flourless, perfect for those following a gluten-free diet.

Dietary Information

  • Gluten-Free: Made without any flour, ideal for celiac or gluten-sensitive individuals.
  • Keto-Friendly: Low-carb, high-fat, great for those on a ketogenic diet.

Storage

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to regain crispiness.
  • Freeze: You can freeze the baked cheese clouds for up to 1 month. Reheat from frozen at 180°C (350°F) until warm and crispy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: Whip up a batch in just 10 minutes with minimal ingredients.
  • Versatile: Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or a side dish.
  • Customizable: Easy to change up with different cheeses and seasonings to suit your taste.

Conclusion

These Nubes de Queso are a delightful and easy-to-make snack that will be loved by kids and adults alike. They are light, cheesy, and perfectly crisp on the outside. A wonderful gluten-free option that takes almost no time to prepare, these cheese clouds will quickly become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use different cheeses?
    Yes, you can use any cheese that melts well, like gouda, Swiss, or a combination.
  2. How do I keep them crispy?
    Reheat them in the oven rather than the microwave to maintain their crispiness.
  3. Can I make them ahead?
    Yes, prepare the batter ahead and bake when ready to serve.
  4. Can I add herbs?
    Absolutely! Try adding chives, parsley, or garlic powder for extra flavor.
  5. Are they good cold?
    They’re best enjoyed warm, but they can be eaten cold if you prefer.
  6. Can I use baking soda instead of baking powder?
    Baking powder works best, but if you must use baking soda, add a bit of lemon juice or vinegar to activate it.
  7. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
    Store in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat in the oven before serving.
  8. Can I make these dairy-free?
    Use dairy-free cheese alternatives, though results may vary slightly in texture.
  9. Can I freeze the batter?
    It’s best to bake first, then freeze the cheese clouds. Reheat from frozen.
  10. How do I prevent them from sticking?
    Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to avoid sticking.

Enjoy your Nubes de Queso, perfect for a quick snack or party appetizer!