Name: Light and Fluffy Strawberry Cloud Cake with Just 3 Ingredients
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Chopped Strawberries (Choose fresh strawberries for best flavor.); 1 cup Unsweetened Applesauce (Use unsweetened for the lightest outcome.); 1 tablespoon Unflavored Gelatin Powder (Essential for stabilizing the cake.)

As summer’s warmth washes over us, the allure of a light and refreshing dessert becomes irresistible. Enter my 3-Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake—an effortless delight that whispers sweet promises of cool, fluffy enjoyment without the fuss of heavy baking. With just three simple ingredients, this cake is a breeze to whip up, making it perfect for spontaneous gatherings or a chilled treat after dinner. Best of all, it’s gluten-free and low-calorie, so you can indulge guilt-free! As the strawberries blend seamlessly with the natural sweetness of applesauce, the result is a whimsical, airy treat that feels like a bite of summer itself. Are you ready to dive into a dessert that’s both light and oh-so-delicious? Let’s get started!

Why is Strawberry Cloud Cake a Must-Try?

Effortless Creation: With just three ingredients, this cake is a breeze to make, perfect for those eager to whip up something special without the complexity of traditional desserts.

Light as Air: Each fluffy bite melts in your mouth, making it a refreshing option for hot summer days.

Guilt-Free Treat: Low-calorie and gluten-free, this dessert allows you to enjoy a sweet treat without any worry.

Versatile Delight: Pair it with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence, or try variations with different fruits to keep things exciting!

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The natural sweetness of strawberries, combined with applesauce, creates a delightful flavor that everyone will love, making it a hit at any gathering.

Discover more light desserts with recipes like the Butter Pecan Cake and Spice Roll Cake that also offer satisfying flavors and easy preparations!

Strawberry Cloud Cake Ingredients

• Unveil the magic of a strawberry cloud cake!

For the Cake

Chopped Strawberries – Choose fresh strawberries for their vibrant flavor and moisture; avoid frozen to maintain the cake’s texture.
Unsweetened Applesauce – This ingredient adds natural moisture and serves as a healthy egg substitute; make sure it’s unsweetened for the lightest outcome.
Unflavored Gelatin Powder – Essential for stabilizing the cake, ensuring it achieves that fluffy, cloud-like consistency; no substitutes are recommended for the best results.

With these three simple ingredients, you’re just a few steps away from creating a delightful strawberry cloud cake that everyone will adore!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Cloud Cake

Step 1: Prep the Pan
Begin by lining an 8-inch or 9-inch square pan with parchment paper, ensuring that it fits snugly in the corners. This will not only help prevent sticking but also make it easier to lift your delicious Strawberry Cloud Cake out once it’s set. Set the prepared pan aside while you move on to the next step.

Step 2: Blend the Ingredients
In a blender or food processor, combine the chopped strawberries and unsweetened applesauce. Blend on high speed until you achieve a smooth, creamy puree, which should take about 1-2 minutes. The vibrant pink mixture will be the base of your fluffy cake, so give it a good scrape down to ensure everything is well incorporated.

Step 3: Mix with Gelatin
Transfer the pureed strawberry and applesauce mixture to a large heat-proof bowl. Sprinkle the unflavored gelatin evenly on top without stirring; allow it to hydrate for a few minutes. This will ensure the gelatin activates properly, setting the foundation for your airy Strawberry Cloud Cake.

Step 4: Dissolve the Gelatin
Place the bowl over a double boiler on medium heat, ensuring the water doesn’t touch the bottom of the bowl. Stir gently while heating to dissolve the gelatin completely, taking care not to bring the mixture to a boil. This process should take about 5 minutes; the mixture should feel warm but not hot to the touch.

Step 5: Cool the Mixture
Once the gelatin is fully dissolved, remove the bowl from the heat and allow the mixture to cool for about 10 minutes until it reaches room temperature. This step is crucial to maintain the mixture’s fluffiness, as adding cold ingredients too soon could compromise the texture of your Strawberry Cloud Cake.

Step 6: Beat Until Fluffy
With a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, pour the cooled mixture into the bowl. Beat on high speed for about 15 minutes, or until the volume quadruples and soft peaks form, resembling whipped cream. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture is light, airy, and glossy, perfect for creating the cloud-like texture.

Step 7: Transfer to the Pan
Carefully pour the fluffy strawberry mixture into the lined square pan. Using a spatula, gently spread it out evenly, ensuring it reaches the corners and smooths out the top. This will create a beautifully presentable Strawberry Cloud Cake once set, so take your time to make it as tidy as possible.

Step 8: Refrigerate to Set
Cover the pan loosely with plastic wrap to prevent any contaminants from affecting your cake. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, allowing the Strawberry Cloud Cake to firm up and set properly. The chilled dessert will develop a delightful texture, making it enjoyable for everyone at your next gathering.

What to Serve with 3-Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake

As you prepare to indulge in this light and airy dessert, think about how you can elevate your dining experience with the perfect pairings.

Fresh Berries: The vibrant strawberries complement the cake’s delicate flavor and add a burst of color to your plate.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream provides a rich contrast to the fluffy texture, enhancing every bite of your cake.
Mint Sprigs: A sprinkle of fresh mint leaves brightens the dish with a refreshing aroma and a hint of coolness.
Chilled Lemonade: Pairing with a glass of homemade lemonade enhances the sweet flavor of the cake while adding a zesty kick.
Coconut Sorbet: This creamy, cold treat offers a tropical flair that beautifully balances the strawberries’ sweetness.
Almond Biscotti: Enjoying a crunchy almond biscotti alongside adds texture to the light cake, perfect for a lovely finish.
Pineapple Salsa: A side of refreshing pineapple salsa brings vibrant sweetness and tang, creating an exciting flavor contrast.
Sparkling Wine: Elevate any gathering with a glass of bubbly, as the effervescence matches the cake’s airy qualities.
Chocolate Drizzle: A light drizzle of melted dark chocolate adds a luxurious touch without overwhelming the dessert’s fresh flavors.

Exploring these pairing ideas will turn your Strawberry Cloud Cake into the centerpiece of a delightful, multi-sensory feast!

Strawberry Cloud Cake Variations

Feel free to put your own spin on this delightful dessert with these fun and tasty variations!

Berry Bliss: Swap strawberries for blueberries or raspberries to create a new fruity flavor. The berries will add a lovely tartness, brightening up the overall dessert.
Tropical Twist: Mix in some crushed pineapple for a tropical flavor. This addition lends a refreshing sweetness that pairs beautifully with the light cake texture.
Flavor Boost: Add a teaspoon of vanilla or almond extract to elevate the cake’s flavor profile. The scent and flavor will take your Strawberry Cloud Cake to another level of deliciousness.
Creamy Indulgence: Top the cake with a light whipped cream frosting for an added touch of indulgence. This will enhance the softness and airy texture, making each bite feel like a cloud!
Nutty Crunch: Fold in some crushed nuts, like almonds or pecans, into the berry mixture for a delightful crunch. This adds interesting texture, creating a satisfying contrast to the cake’s fluffiness.
Citrus Zing: Incorporate lemon or lime zest to brighten up the flavors. Just a teaspoon will add a refreshing zing that compliments the sweetness of the strawberries perfectly.
Heat It Up: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder. This twist will surprise your taste buds and provide an exciting contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
Choco Delight: Consider adding cocoa powder to the mixture for a chocolatey twist. A light chocolate cloud cake is perfect for those craving a sweeter touch.

Explore these tempting variations and create a dessert that’s perfect for you or your next gathering! And if you’re in the mood for more delightful recipes, try the Pecan Pie Dump Cake or a luscious Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake to bring even more joy to your table!

Make Ahead Options

These 3-Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cakes are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delightful dessert without a last-minute rush. You can prepare the strawberry puree and gelatin mixture up to 24 hours in advance; just blend the strawberries and applesauce, then dissolve the gelatin and cool the mixture as instructed. Store the cooled mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply whip it until fluffy and pour it into the lined pan. Chill for at least 1 hour to set, and you’ll have a light and airy treat at your fingertips, just as delicious as the day you made it!

How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Cloud Cake

Fridge: Store the leftover Strawberry Cloud Cake in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator, maintaining its fluffy texture.
Freezer: Although not ideal, you can freeze the cake for up to 1 month. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
Reheating: This dessert is best served chilled and doesn’t require reheating. Just slice and serve for a refreshing treat any time!
Texture Reminder: Keep in mind that freezing may slightly alter the cake’s texture, so it’s recommended to savor it fresh whenever possible.

Expert Tips for Strawberry Cloud Cake

Gelatin Mastery: Ensure the gelatin is completely dissolved in the warm mixture; undissolved gelatin results in an uneven texture.
Whipping Precision: Beat the mixture long enough to reach soft peaks, as this is essential for achieving that airy Strawberry Cloud Cake consistency.
Slice with Care: Using a sharp knife helps you achieve clean slices, maintaining the cake’s beautiful cloud-like appearance.
Storage Sensibility: Keep any leftovers refrigerated to preserve freshness; the cake is best enjoyed within a few days for optimum flavor and texture.
Substitution Alert: Avoid substituting the unflavored gelatin, as it is crucial for the cake’s structure and fluffiness.

3 Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake Recipe FAQs

What kind of strawberries should I use for the cake?
Absolutely! Fresh strawberries are key for this recipe. They provide the vibrant flavor and moisture necessary to keep the cake light and fluffy. Avoid frozen strawberries, as they may release excess water, which could affect the cake’s texture. Look for strawberries that are bright red, plump, and free from dark spots for the best results!

How should I store any leftover Strawberry Cloud Cake?
Very simply! Store the leftover cake in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap. It stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to keep it chilled; this helps maintain its delightful, fluffy texture that makes each bite feel like a cloud!

Can I freeze the Strawberry Cloud Cake?
Certainly! While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze this cake for up to 1 month if needed. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw the slices in the refrigerator overnight. Just note that freezing may slightly alter the cake’s airy texture, but it will still be delightful!

What if my gelatin doesn’t dissolve properly?
If your gelatin isn’t dissolving, don’t worry! This can happen if the mixture gets too hot or if it’s not mixed well enough. Ensure you’re using a double boiler setup; keep the water at a gentle simmer, not boiling. Stir it occasionally to help it dissolve completely—it should feel warm to the touch but never hot. This step is crucial for achieving that fluffy, cloud-like cake texture!

Is this cake suitable for people with allergies?
Absolutely! This 3-ingredient Strawberry Cloud Cake is gluten-free and doesn’t contain eggs, dairy, or added sugars, making it suitable for many dietary restrictions. However, if you’re serving someone with a gelatin allergy, you might want to explore alternative stabilizers, though these could affect the final fluffy texture. Always double-check all ingredient labels to ensure everyone’s safety!

Can I use other fruits aside from strawberries?
Of course! The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. While strawberries shine in this cloud cake, feel free to experiment with other fruits like ripe blueberries or bananas. Keep in mind that flavor and texture may vary; bananas will yield a denser result, and blueberries might affect the color. Enjoy experimenting and finding your favorites!