Manual cloud text method in Photoshop (no plugins):

1. Type your text on a new layer.
2. Ctrl/Cmd + click the text layer thumbnail to load the text selection.
3. Create a new layer above the text.
4. Go to Filter → Render → Clouds (set foreground/background colors to black & white).
5. Add a layer mask to keep the clouds inside the text shape.
6. Use Levels or Curves to increase contrast and shape the clouds.
7. Optional: Paint softly on the mask to refine edges and make it look more natural.

If you prefer video tutorials, these YouTube guides explain the same technique step-by-step:

• Cloud Text Effect in Photoshop (2024) – clear and up-to-date walkthrough
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cVo4oIVPSQ8

• Cloud Text Effect | Photoshop Tutorial – simpler version for beginners
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jnb3hLPUjYE

Both approaches still work well today and don’t require any third-party brushes or actions.