Richard Sax Cloud Cake: The Story & Recipe

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Have you ever tasted a dessert so memorable it felt like a moment suspended in time? That’s the magic of the Chocolate Cloud Cake, a creation that has captivated bakers and dessert lovers for decades. This flourless chocolate cake is not just a treat for the taste buds but a celebration of texture and flavor.

The genius behind this iconic dessert is Richard Sax cloud cake, a celebrated writer and cooking instructor. His 1994 cookbook, Classic Home Desserts, introduced the world to this masterpiece. Known for its dramatic presentation and contrasting textures, the cake has become a favorite for special occasions like birthdays and anniversaries.

Over the years, the Chocolate Cloud Cake has been adapted by platforms like Food52 and featured in Genius Desserts by Kristen Miglore. Its enduring popularity lies in its simplicity and reliability, making it a stress-free showstopper for home bakers. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, this recipe promises a delightful experience.

The History of the Richard Sax Cloud Cake

Every great recipe has a story, and the Chocolate Cloud Cake is no exception. This iconic dessert first appeared in the 1994 cookbook, Classic Home Desserts. Its creator, Richard Sax, designed it to be both simple and stunning, with an “intentional collapse” that adds drama to every slice.

Over the years, the recipe gained new life through platforms like Food52. Kristen Miglore featured it in her Genius Desserts series, praising its foolproof nature. Home bakers quickly embraced it for its reliability and show-stopping appeal.

Testimonials from bakers like Julie and Barry highlight its role in milestone celebrations. From birthdays to anniversaries, this flourless chocolate treat has become a symbol of joy and togetherness. Its emotional appeal is undeniable, making it a favorite for special occasions.

Compared to other flourless desserts, the Chocolate Cloud Cake stands out for its innovative technique. Its resurgence on social media and food blogs has introduced it to a new generation of bakers. Retro recipes like this one continue to inspire, proving that great flavors never go out of style.

Why the Richard Sax Cloud Cake Stands Out

What makes a dessert unforgettable? It’s the perfect balance of flavor and texture. The flourless chocolate cake achieves this with its unique combination of a crackly edge and a creamy center. This texture contrast is what sets it apart from other desserts.

Unlike denser cakes like Rose Levy Beranbaum’s Chocolate Oblivion Torte, this recipe uses half the chocolate and butter. Instead, it incorporates a meringue made from whipped egg whites. This creates a soufflé-like rise and collapse, giving the cake its signature “craggy rim” and “moussey hollow.”

The science behind this technique is simple. Whipping egg whites introduces air, creating a lighter crumb. This contrasts with whole-egg methods, which result in a denser texture. The result is a dessert that offers both intensity then relief—a phrase coined by the creator himself.

“It’s about intensity, then relief. The rich chocolate hits you first, followed by the lightness of the meringue.”

To enhance the experience, serve the cake with cold whipped cream. The cool cream complements the warm, crackly edges and creamy center. It’s a sensory delight that keeps you coming back for more.

This recipe is also highly adaptable. Add orange zest or a splash of Grand Marnier for a citrusy twist. The possibilities are endless, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.

Feature	Richard Sax Cloud Cake	Chocolate Oblivion Torte
Texture	Light, airy, with crackly edges	Dense, fudgy
Chocolate/Butter Ratio	Half the amount	Full amount
Key Technique	Whipped egg whites	Whole eggs

How to Make the Richard Sax Cloud Cake

Ready to bake a dessert that’s as impressive as it is simple? This flourless chocolate masterpiece is easier to make than you might think. With a few key techniques, you’ll create a dessert that’s light, airy, and utterly indulgent.

Ingredients

High-quality dark chocolate
Unsalted butter
Eggs (separated)
Granulated sugar
Vanilla extract
Whipped cream (for serving)
Cocoa powder (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line a springform pan with parchment paper but avoid greasing it. This helps the cake rise properly.

Melt the chocolate and butter together over a double boiler to create a warm chocolate mixture. Stir until smooth, then let it cool slightly.

In a separate bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold batter into the chocolate mixture to retain the airiness. Pour the batter into the prepared pan.

Bake for 35-40 minutes until the edges are set but the center remains slightly soft. Place the cake on a cooling rack and let it cool completely. The center will collapse, creating its signature texture.

Serve with a dollop whipped cream and a dusting of cocoa powder garnish. For storage, keep it in an airtight container or freeze cake for up to a month.

This recipe is perfect for any occasion. Its simplicity and elegance make it a go-to dessert for both beginners and experienced bakers. Enjoy the process and savor the results!

Conclusion

The Chocolate Cloud Cake is a timeless dessert that combines simplicity with elegance. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced baker, this recipe is designed to be stress-free and reliable. Its signature collapsed center isn’t a flaw—it’s a feature that adds drama and charm to every slice.

Pair it with seasonal fruits or liqueurs for a personalized touch. Raspberry-infused whipped cream, as recommended by Ishita Singh, is a delightful addition. This adaptable recipe is perfect for holidays, birthdays, or dinner parties, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.

Anna Billingskog confirms that the cake freezes beautifully, so you can prepare it ahead of time. Embrace the texture contrast and let the baking legacy of this dessert inspire you. Share your creations using #RichardSaxCloudCake and join the community of bakers who celebrate this masterpiece.

FAQ

Who created the Richard Sax cloud cake?

The recipe was developed by Richard Sax, a renowned cookbook author and food writer known for his elegant and approachable desserts.

What makes the Richard Sax cloud cake unique?

This dessert stands out for its flourless texture, rich chocolate flavor, and light, airy meringue topping. It’s a perfect balance of decadence and simplicity.

Can I substitute ingredients in the recipe?

Yes, you can use Grand Marnier or another liqueur instead of cognac, and bittersweet chocolate can be swapped for semi-sweet if you prefer a milder taste.