Picture this: A luscious, billowy cloud of sweet strawberry delight melting effortlessly on your tongue, with the delicate tang of fresh fruit and the tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture that feels like a hug in dessert form. The vibrant pink hue of this dreamy cake brightens any table, calling out for another forkful before you even realize it. What’s more, it requires just three simple ingredients and zero baking—yes, zero! This 3 Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake Recipe is pure magic, especially when you want to impress without fuss.
Why You’ll Love This 3 Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes plus chilling time, this cake turns out in a flash, perfect for last-minute celebrations or sweet cravings.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses only three pantry heroes—fresh strawberries, unsweetened applesauce, and gelatin powder—making it effortless to whip up.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family get-together or an elegant dessert finale, this cake never fails to dazzle.
- Impressive Presentation: Its delicate, airy texture and radiant pink color make it look like you’ve spent hours crafting a masterpiece.
- Customizable: Easily adapted with toppings or mix-ins to suit your taste, from whipped cream crowns to a sprinkle of fresh mint or edible flowers.
Why This 3 Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake Recipe Works
The brilliance of this 3 Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake Recipe lies in the harmonious simplicity of its technique and ingredients. First, pureeing the strawberries into the applesauce creates a naturally sweet and brightly flavored base that is both healthy and fresh. Incorporating unflavored gelatin powder is the clever secret—it transforms a smooth liquid into a firm, yet airy cloud that sets perfectly without baking. The magic unfolds when you whisk the gelatin mixture at high speed, folding in air to create a fluffy, voluminous texture reminiscent of whipped cream but with the freshness of fruit. This method guarantees a light, melt-away bite every time, making this recipe a reliable crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This 3 Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake Recipe calls for ingredients that are as delicious as they are straightforward. Each one plays a starring role in building layers of flavor and texture.
- Chopped Strawberries (1/2 cup, 77 g): Provides natural sweetness, vibrant color, and fresh fruity flavor.
- Unsweetened Applesauce (1 1/3 cups, 313 g): Acts as a silky, smooth base adding moisture without overpowering the strawberries.
- Unflavored Gelatin Powder (4 1/2 tsp, 15 g): The magic binder that helps the cake set into a light, airy structure with a beautiful wobble.
Ingredient Substitutions & Tips
- Strawberries: Fresh or frozen strawberries work well; thaw frozen first. You can also experiment with raspberries or blueberries for a twist.
- Unsweetened Applesauce: You can substitute with pear sauce or peach purée for a subtly different flavor, just ensure it’s unsweetened.
- Unflavored Gelatin Powder: Use sheet gelatin if preferred, but adjust quantity according to package instructions. Vegetarians can try agar-agar but expect different texture.
- Sugar additions: If you prefer a sweeter cake, a touch of honey or agave syrup can be added to the puree before setting.
👨🍳 Pro Tips for Perfect Results
- Use ripe strawberries: The riper, the sweeter and more flavorful your cloud cake will be.
- Gelatin handling: Ensure gelatin is fully dissolved using a double boiler and avoid boiling, which can ruin its setting power.
- Whisk thoroughly: Whisking for the full 15 minutes is key to developing the cloud-like fluffy texture.
- Chill time: Don’t rush the fridge phase—it’s essential for firming up the dessert perfectly.
- Lift carefully: Use parchment paper to lift your cake easily out of the pan without any breaks.
How to Make 3 Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Line an 8 or 9 inch square pan generously with a large sheet of parchment paper, covering both bottom and sides in one smooth piece. This will allow you to lift out your cloud cake effortlessly once it’s set, keeping the edges pristine.
💡 Pro Tip: Leave extra parchment overhang on two opposite sides for easy lifting.
Step 2: Puree Strawberries and Applesauce
Combine the chopped strawberries and applesauce in a blender. Blend on high speed until completely smooth and uniform in color, ensuring no chunky bits remain. This luscious, pink puree forms the flavor-rich base of your cloud cake.
💡 Pro Tip: Scrape down the sides to blend evenly for the brightest color and flavor.
Step 3: Incorporate Gelatin Powder
Transfer the puree to a large, heat-proof mixing bowl. Sprinkle the unflavored gelatin evenly over the surface. Whisk gently to incorporate; at this stage, your mixture will thicken and become chunkier as the gelatin absorbs moisture.
💡 Pro Tip: Even sprinkling of gelatin ensures smooth blend without clumps.
Step 4: Dissolve Gelatin with Double Boiler
Place the bowl over a double boiler setup on the stove. Gently heat the mixture, stirring consistently until the gelatin fully dissolves and the mixture becomes thinner and more liquidy. Be cautious to keep the heat low—do not let it boil. Once dissolved, remove from heat and let cool at room temperature for about 10 minutes.
💡 Pro Tip: Test temperature by dipping a finger; it should feel warm, never hot.
Step 5: Whisk into a Fluffy Cloud
Pour the cooled gelatin-strawberry mixture into a stand mixer fitted with the wire whisk attachment. Beat on the highest speed for about 15 minutes until the mixture quadruples in volume and forms soft peaks, resembling airy whipped cream. You’ll see how this step transforms liquid into ethereal cloud-like texture.
💡 Pro Tip: Don’t rush this step—full whisking is the secret to that signature lightness.
Step 6: Set the Cake
Pour the fluffy mixture into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to let the cake set and become firm but tender.
💡 Pro Tip: Cover loosely with plastic wrap to prevent fridge odors from seeping in.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once set, gently lift the cake out of the pan using the parchment paper edges. Slice carefully with a sharp, large knife. This cake is best enjoyed chilled and can be decorated with whipped cream or your favorite frosting before serving.
💡 Pro Tip: Dip the knife in warm water, wipe dry, then slice for clean edges.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Learn from these common pitfalls:
- Using under-ripe strawberries: Results in a less sweet and dull flavor profile.
- Boiling the gelatin: Overheating gelatin destroys its setting ability, causing the cake not to set.
- Insufficient whisking: Stops the mixture from reaching the perfect cloud-like fluff.
- Ignoring chilling time: Trying to cut the cake before it is fully set will make it fall apart.
- Not lining the pan properly: Makes it difficult to remove the cake without breaking.
- Using a dull knife for slicing: Can cause jagged edges and ruin the presentation.
Delicious Variations to Try
Once you’ve mastered the classic 3 Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake Recipe:
Mixed Berry Cloud
Swap half the strawberries with blueberries and raspberries for a colorful berry medley that bursts with flavor in every bite.
Mango Passion Cloud
Replace applesauce with passion fruit purée and add ripe mango chunks for a tropical twist that transports you straight to a sunny beach.
Vanilla Bean Cloud
Add a teaspoon of vanilla bean paste to the strawberry and applesauce mixture before setting, lending a rich aromatic finish to the cake.
Chocolate Strawberry Cloud
Fold in finely grated dark chocolate after whisking to infuse a bittersweet contrast with the fruity strawberry notes.
Rosewater Kissed Cloud
A few drops of rosewater added to the puree adds a delicate floral fragrance, elevating this cloud cake to an elegant dessert treat.
How to Serve 3 Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Top with whipped cream swirls, fresh strawberry slices, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a few mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
Side Dishes
Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a simple fruit salad for a light, refreshing complement.
Creative Ways to Present
Try plating individual servings in clear glass cups for a layered effect or cut into heart shapes using cookie cutters for special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any uneaten cake tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain its fresh, cloud-like texture.
Freezing
It’s best enjoyed fresh as freezing can alter the delicate texture, but if needed, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in fridge.
Reheating
Since this is a no bake, chilled dessert, serve it cold to keep the signature airy texture intact. Reheating is not recommended.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes! Thaw and drain excess liquid before blending to avoid a watery mixture.
Is gelatin the only way to set this cake?
Gelatin is recommended for its texture and reliability; agar-agar is a vegetarian alternative but may alter texture.
Can I make this cake vegan?
Substituting gelatin is challenging; agar-agar can be tried but results may vary in firmness and fluffiness.
How long should I whisk the mixture?
About 15 minutes on high speed until it quadruples in volume and forms soft peaks.
Can I add sugar or sweeteners?
Yes, add a small amount of honey or agave sweetener during blending if you prefer a sweeter cake.
What if my cake doesn’t set?
Likely the gelatin was not fully dissolved or the mixture was overheated; be sure to follow the double boiler method carefully.
Can I use a hand mixer instead of a stand mixer?
Yes, but you’ll need to whisk vigorously longer to achieve the same volume and texture.
How to slice the cake neatly?
Use a large sharp knife dipped in warm water and wiped dry between slices for clean cuts.
Final Thoughts
This 3 Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake Recipe is pure joy in dessert form—light as air, packed with fresh strawberry sweetness, and effortlessly elegant. It’s one of those recipes that makes both the maker and the guests smile, savoring simplicity elevated to something special. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned home baker, this cloud cake will quickly become a cherished favorite for its charm and ease.
Have you tried this 3 Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake Recipe? I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment below. If you loved this recipe, please share it with friends and family. Happy cooking! 🍓
Print3 Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake Recipe
This 3 Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake is a light, airy, and refreshing dessert perfect for warm days. Made with fresh strawberries, unsweetened applesauce, and unflavored gelatin, this no-bake cake relies on a whipped gelatin technique to create a fluffy, cloud-like texture. It’s simple to prepare, requires no oven, and serves as a healthy and low-calorie treat that can be easily customized with your choice of toppings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (77 g) chopped strawberries (about 1/2 inch cubes)
- 1 1/3 cups (313 g) unsweetened applesauce
- 4 1/2 tsp (15 g) unflavored gelatin powder
Instructions
- Prepare pan: Line the sides and bottom of an 8-inch or 9-inch square pan with a large single sheet of parchment paper. This will allow you to lift the cake out of the pan easily after it sets.
- Blend strawberries and applesauce: Place the chopped strawberries and unsweetened applesauce into a blender. Blend on high speed until the strawberries are completely pureed and the mixture is uniformly colored.
- Incorporate gelatin: Pour the strawberry-applesauce puree into a large heat-proof mixing bowl. Sprinkle the unflavored gelatin powder evenly across the surface. Whisk thoroughly until the gelatin is fully incorporated, which will initially thicken the mixture and create a chunkier texture.
- Dissolve gelatin using double boiler: Set the bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method) on the stovetop. Gently heat while stirring until the gelatin has completely dissolved and the mixture becomes thinner and more liquidy. The mixture should be warm to the touch but must not boil. Remove from heat and let cool at room temperature for about 10 minutes.
- Whip the mixture: Transfer the cooled mixture to the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the wire whisk attachment. Whip on the highest speed for approximately 15 minutes until the mixture quadruples in volume and achieves an airy, whipped cream-like consistency. The whisk should be able to hold a soft peak when stopped.
- Set the cake: Pour the whipped mixture into the prepared parchment-lined pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly and smooth the surface. Refrigerate the pan for at least 1 hour to allow the cake to set firmly.
- Serve and store: Keep the cake refrigerated until ready to serve. Optionally, decorate with whipped cream or your favorite frosting before slicing. Use a large, sharp knife to slice the cake. Best served chilled. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator.
Notes
- Ensure the gelatin does not boil during the dissolving process to maintain texture and effectiveness.
- Use a sufficiently large sheet of parchment paper to easily lift the cake out without tearing.
- The cake is delicate; slice carefully with a large, sharp knife for the best presentation.
- Can be customized by adding whipped cream or fruit toppings before serving.
- Because this cake relies on gelatin, it is not suitable for vegans but is vegetarian-friendly if the gelatin is plant-based.