Have you ever found yourself craving a dessert so airy and light that it feels like you’re consuming a cloud? This 3-Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake is the answer to your summertime sweet tooth. With just three simple components—fresh strawberries, unsweetened applesauce, and unflavored gelatin—you can whip up a dessert that not only delights the palate but also keeps your guilt at bay. This recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy something sweet without any flour, eggs, added sugars, or butter. Perfect for those lazy, warm afternoons when you want a refreshing treat, it’s low in calories and requires no baking at all! So, are you ready to create a dreamy, fluffy dessert that will impress anyone lucky enough to share it with you?

Why is this dessert a must-try?

Guilt-Free Indulgence: With only three ingredients, this cake is a delightful way to satisfy your sweet cravings without added sugars, fats, or calories.
Light as Air: Its airy, cloud-like texture makes it the perfect treat for hot days, bringing a touch of whimsy to any gathering.
Versatile Flavor: Swap out strawberries for another puree, such as blueberries, to create exciting variations for every palate.
Easy to Make: No baking required means you can whip it up in a flash—perfect for a last-minute dessert!
Impressive Presentation: Serve it chilled and dressed with a dollop of whipped cream for an elegant finish that will wow your guests.
Dive into the world of delicious desserts with this recipe, and if you love strawberries, don’t forget to check out my Soft Strawberry Cheesecake for another fabulous treat!

Ingredients for Strawberry Cloud Cake

• Discover the essentials for a fluffy delight!

For the Cake

Chopped Strawberries – Fresh, sweet strawberries provide the primary fruity flavor; avoid frozen to reduce moisture.
Unsweetened Applesauce – This acts as a natural sweetener and moistening agent, ensuring a light texture without added sugars.
Unflavored Gelatin Powder – Essential for helping the mixture set properly and achieve that airy cloud-like texture; avoid substitutions for best results.

Now you’re all set to create your very own Strawberry Cloud Cake!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Cloud Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Line an 8-inch or 9-inch square cake pan with parchment paper, ensuring it covers the bottom and sides completely for an easy release after chilling. This cake pan will be your base for the airy Strawberry Cloud Cake, so make sure the parchment is well-secured with a bit of cooking spray if needed.

Step 2: Blend the Strawberries and Applesauce
In a blender, combine the chopped strawberries with unsweetened applesauce. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and vibrant in color, which should take about 1-2 minutes. This delicious puree will provide the primary flavor base for your cloud cake, giving it that fresh, fruity essence that makes it so delightful.

Step 3: Combine with Gelatin
In a separate heat-proof bowl, pour the strawberry puree mixture and sprinkle the unflavored gelatin on top. Whisk the mixture vigorously until the gelatin is well incorporated, creating a smooth blend. This step is crucial, as it ensures that the gelatin evenly distributes throughout the puree, setting the foundation for the fluffy texture of your Strawberry Cloud Cake.

Step 4: Dissolve the Gelatin
Using a double boiler setup, gently heat the gelatin and strawberry mixture over simmering water, stirring continuously for about 5-7 minutes until the gelatin is completely dissolved and the mixture feels warm to the touch. Ensure it doesn’t boil, as heat can affect the gelatin’s ability to set properly. Once dissolved, remove it from the heat and let it cool for a minute or two.

Step 5: Whip the Mixture
In a stand mixer, pour in the cooled gelatin mixture and beat it on high speed for approximately 15 minutes. As you whip, the mixture should triple in volume and begin to resemble whipped cream, attaining a light and fluffy consistency. This is the magic step that transforms your Strawberry Cloud Cake into an airy delight!

Step 6: Chill the Cake
Carefully pour the whipped mixture into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly to ensure a uniform thickness. Place the pan in the refrigerator and allow it to chill for at least 1 hour, or until the cake is firmly set. This step is essential for achieving the perfect texture that’s light enough to taste like a cloud.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
After chilling, carefully remove the Strawberry Cloud Cake from the pan by lifting the edges of the parchment paper. Slice into squares and serve cold, optionally topping with a dollop of whipped cream for extra creaminess. This final touch will elevate your cake visually and taste-wise, presenting a beautifully airy dessert that anyone would be thrilled to enjoy!

Expert Tips for Strawberry Cloud Cake

Gelatin Matters: Ensure you dissolve the unflavored gelatin completely using a double boiler; incomplete gelatin will lead to a less fluffy texture.
Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh strawberries instead of frozen ones to avoid excess moisture, keeping your Strawberry Cloud Cake light and airy.
Chill Time: Prepare your dessert a day in advance if possible. This allows flavors to meld and ensures the best texture when serving.
Whipping Technique: Beat the mixture on high for at least 15 minutes; it’s crucial for achieving that whipped cream-like consistency.
Keep It Simple: Avoid adding sweeteners to the base, as they can interfere with the fluffiness of this delightful cloud cake.

Strawberry Cloud Cake Variations

Feel free to let your creativity soar and customize this dreamy dessert to suit your taste buds!

Dairy-Free: Substitute whipped coconut cream on top to keep it light and luscious without any dairy.
Berry Medley: Use a mix of chopped strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a colorful, fruity twist.
Tropical Vibe: Swap strawberries for fresh mango puree to bring a bright, exotic flavor to your cloud cake.
Nuts for Crunch: Fold in some finely chopped almonds or pistachios for a delightful texture contrast in every bite.
Chocolate Lover’s Delight: Mix in a tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder to the strawberry puree for a chocolatey cloud cake!
Minty Fresh: Add a teaspoon of peppermint extract into the mixture for a refreshing, minty flavor that feels like summer in every slice.
Citrus Zing: Incorporate a splash of fresh lemon or lime juice into your strawberry puree for a zesty finish.
Serve with Style: Top with a spoonful of flavored whipped cream, like vanilla or coconut, for an elegant touch that complements the cake beautifully.

With these delightful variations, the possibilities are endless! Explore more delectable desserts like Strawberry Icebox Cake or consider trying some refreshing additions like my Refreshing Virgin Strawberry Pina Colada to complement your strawberry-inspired feast!

Make Ahead Options

These 3-Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the cake base up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and ensuring a delightful texture. Simply complete steps 1 through 6, cover the cake pan with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it. To maintain quality, be sure to refrigerate any leftovers for up to 3 days and consume them cold for the best flavor. When it’s time to serve, just slice the cake and add your desired whipped cream on top for an extra layer of indulgence. This way, you’ll have a stunning dessert ready to impress with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Cloud Cake

Fridge: Store any leftover Strawberry Cloud Cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep it fresh and moist. Avoid exposing it to moisture to maintain its airy texture.

Freezer: While not recommended for best texture, you can freeze the cake for up to 1 month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

Thawing: To enjoy the frozen Strawberry Cloud Cake, transfer it to the fridge and let it thaw overnight. Avoid refreezing after thawing, as this can alter its lightness.

Reheating: This cake is best served chilled; there’s no need for reheating. Just slice and enjoy cold, perhaps with an added touch of whipped cream!

What to Serve with 3 Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake

This fluffy dessert is not only a treat on its own but also pairs beautifully with delightful accompaniments for a well-rounded experience.

Creamy Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top enhances the fluffiness and adds a touch of sweetness, perfectly complementing the airy cake.
Fresh Berries: Garnish with a mix of blueberries and raspberries for a burst of color and additional natural sweetness, elevating the dessert’s freshness.
Mint Leaves: A sprinkle of fresh mint leaves adds a refreshing aroma and bright flavor contrast, making each bite feel even more special.
Crushed Graham Crackers: A light sprinkle of crushed graham crackers provides a subtle crunch that contrasts beautifully with the cake’s soft texture, enhancing the overall enjoyment.
Lemon Sorbet: Serve alongside a scoop of lemon sorbet for a tangy twist, offering a refreshing palate cleanser between bites of the cloud cake.
Iced Tea or Lemonade: A glass of iced tea or lemonade pairs flawlessly, amplifying the light, summery feel while balancing the sweetness of the dessert.

These delightful pairings will turn a simple Strawberry Cloud Cake into an exquisite dessert experience that family and friends will love!

3-Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of strawberries should I use?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, use fresh, sweet strawberries. Avoid frozen strawberries, as they can introduce excess moisture, which may compromise the cloud-like quality of the cake.

How should I store leftover Strawberry Cloud Cake?
To keep your leftover Strawberry Cloud Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s protected from moisture, as this will help maintain its fluffy texture.

Can I freeze the Strawberry Cloud Cake?
Yes, you can freeze the Strawberry Cloud Cake for up to 1 month, but keep in mind that the texture may slightly alter. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, simply transfer it to the fridge to thaw overnight.

What if my gelatin doesn’t dissolve completely?
If you find that your gelatin hasn’t dissolved thoroughly, simply return the mixture to the double boiler and heat gently while stirring, making sure not to let it boil. Dissolving it completely is crucial for achieving that light, fluffy texture. This step will ensure your Strawberry Cloud Cake turns out just right!

Is this dessert suitable for those with allergies?
The Strawberry Cloud Cake is naturally free of flour, eggs, added sugars, butter, and oil, making it a suitable option for many dietary restrictions. However, check the gelatin packet for any potential allergens, and if you’re serving guests, it’s always a good idea to ask if they have any allergies before serving.

How do I know when the cake is ready to serve?
The Strawberry Cloud Cake is ready to serve when it is firmly set and has tripled in volume, resembling whipped cream. After chilling for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator, it should be light, airy, and hold its shape when sliced. Enjoy it chilled for the best experience!