Save A vibrant, whimsical noodle dish featuring colorful noodles nestled in a soft, cloud-like creamy sauce. Perfect for parties or to delight kids and adults alike.
I first made Neon Noodle Cloud for my niece's birthday party, and it instantly became the centerpiece of the celebration. Watching everyone marvel at the rainbow swirls made me realize how a playful twist on noodles could bring so much joy to the table.
Ingredients
- Noodles: 300 g dried wheat noodles or ramen noodles, food coloring gels (pink, blue, yellow, green—gel coloring preferred for vibrancy)
- Cloud Sauce: 200 ml whole milk or plant-based milk, 120 g cream cheese (or vegan alternative), 1 tbsp unsalted butter (or vegan butter), 2 tbsp grated parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for vegan), 1 tsp cornstarch, 1/4 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp white pepper
- Garnish: 2 scallions, finely sliced, 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds, edible flowers or microgreens (optional)
Instructions
- Prep Colored Water:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Divide the water into separate bowls according to the number of colors you wish to use.
- Add Color:
- Add a small amount of food coloring to each bowl, stirring well to achieve your desired shade.
- Cook Noodles:
- Divide the noodles into equal portions and cook each portion separately in the colored boiling water for 2 3 minutes less than package instructions (as theyll finish cooking in the sauce). Rinse under cold water to stop cooking and set aside.
- Make Cloud Sauce:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add cream cheese and stir until smooth.
- Thicken Sauce:
- Whisk milk, parmesan, cornstarch, salt, and white pepper into the saucepan. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce is thick and creamy about 5 minutes.
- Combine:
- Add the noodles to the sauce, gently folding to coat. Try to keep colors distinct for a cloud effect, or swirl for a marbled look.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately, topping with scallions, sesame seeds, and edible flowers or microgreens if desired.
Save Making this recipe together has become a colorful tradition at our house—especially when everyone picks their favorite noodle shade. It's a fantastic way to get kids involved and excited about kitchen creativity.
Required Tools
Large pot, multiple heatproof bowls, saucepan, colander, whisk
Allergen Information
Contains dairy and wheat. For vegan and gluten-free options, use suitable substitutes and check coloring labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 390, Total Fat: 15 g, Carbohydrates: 50 g, Protein: 12 g
Save This noodle cloud is as fun to eat as it is to admire. Let everyone swirl and decorate their own bowl for a memorable, interactive meal.
Recipe FAQ Section
- → How do I achieve vibrant noodle colors?
Use gel-based food coloring and cook each noodle portion separately in colored water for bright, even hues.
- → Can I make this dairy-free or vegan?
Substitute plant-based milk, vegan cream cheese, vegan butter, and nutritional yeast for a fully vegan version.
- → What is the 'cloud effect' in this dish?
The cloud effect comes from gently mixing colored noodles in a creamy sauce, keeping colors distinct or swirling for a marbled look.
- → Are there gluten-free options?
Yes—use gluten-free noodles and ensure all other ingredients, including food coloring, are suitable for gluten-free diets.
- → Which garnish works best with this dish?
Finely sliced scallions, toasted sesame seeds, and edible flowers or microgreens add flavor, texture, and extra visual appeal.
- → Can I prepare this for a party?
Absolutely—colorful noodles and creamy sauce make a festive centerpiece that delights both kids and adults.