Name: No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake: A Light Guilt-Free Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 90 min
Ingredients: 2 cups chopped strawberries (Fresh ripe strawberries are key for natural sweetness; avoid frozen as they can add excess water.); 1 cup unsweetened applesauce (This binds the ingredients while adding moisture; choose unsweetened to keep the cake light and fluffy.); 1 packet unflavored gelatin powder (Provides essential structure and stability to the cake, ensuring the texture remains airy.)

As I was enjoying a warm summer afternoon, I stumbled upon a delightful idea that would transform my dessert game: the 3-Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake. This is not just any dessert—it’s a light and airy treat that melts in your mouth, providing a sweet escape from the heaviness of traditional cakes. With only three simple ingredients—chopped strawberries, unsweetened applesauce, and unflavored gelatin—this flourless and low-sugar dessert is perfect for those who crave something refreshing without the guilt. It’s the ultimate answer for easy entertaining or a sweet finish to any meal. Curious about how this fluffy wonder comes together with minimal effort? Let’s dive in!

Why is this Strawberry Cloud Cake a Must-Try?

Simplicity at its finest: Just three ingredients make this dessert incredibly easy to whip up, perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers.

Light and airy: This dessert melts in your mouth, providing a fluffy texture that’s unlike any traditional cake.

Refreshing flavor: The burst of fresh strawberry combined with unsweetened applesauce offers a naturally sweet taste without the added sugar.

Versatile servings: Whether it’s a summer gathering or a cozy evening at home, this cake is a stylish and delightful finish to any meal, just like my favorite Strawberry Shortcake Whipped.

Guilt-free indulgence: With only around 23 calories per slice, it’s the perfect treat for health-conscious dessert lovers! Plus, its easy make-ahead option means you can enjoy it with minimal stress.

No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake Ingredients

• Let’s gather what we need for this refreshing treat!

For the Cake

Chopped Strawberries – Fresh ripe strawberries are key for natural sweetness; avoid frozen as they can add excess water.
Unsweetened Applesauce – This binds the ingredients while adding moisture; choose unsweetened to keep the cake light and fluffy.
Unflavored Gelatin Powder – Provides essential structure and stability to the cake, ensuring the texture remains airy.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Start by lining an 8-inch or 9-inch square pan with a large sheet of parchment paper. This will prevent the No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake from sticking, making it easy to remove after chilling. Make sure the parchment hangs over the edges slightly for easier lifting later. Set the prepared pan aside while you gather your ingredients.

Step 2: Blend the Ingredients
In a blender, combine the chopped fresh strawberries and unsweetened applesauce until the mixture is fully pureed. This will create a smooth base for your cake, ensuring that the natural sweetness of the fruit shines through. Take your time blending, about 1-2 minutes should do, and check for any remaining chunks before moving on to the next step.

Step 3: Combine with Gelatin
Pour the strawberry and applesauce puree into a large heat-proof bowl. Sprinkle the unflavored gelatin powder evenly over the surface, then whisk everything together until fully combined. This mixture should take on a thick, glossy appearance, which indicates that the gelatin is evenly dispersed. Make sure to mix thoroughly for about 1-2 minutes before proceeding to dissolve the gelatin.

Step 4: Dissolve the Gelatin
Using a double boiler setup, gently heat the bowl containing your mixture over simmering water, making sure it doesn’t boil. Stir constantly for about 5-7 minutes until the gelatin is completely dissolved and the mixture is warm, resembling a thick syrup. Remove the bowl from heat, and let it cool to room temperature, ensuring you don’t rush this step to prevent premature setting.

Step 5: Whip the Mixture
Once cooled, transfer the mixture to a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment. Beat the mixture on high speed for around 15 minutes, until it quadruples in volume and takes on a light, airy texture reminiscent of whipped cream. As you whip, the No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake will become fluffy and voluminous, creating the perfect foundation for this airy dessert.

Step 6: Pour into the Pan
Carefully pour the fluffy mixture into the prepared pan, using a spatula to smooth the surface evenly. Take your time to ensure it is level, as this will affect the final presentation of your No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake. Once smoothed, cover the pan with plastic wrap to prevent any odors from other fridge items from affecting its taste.

Step 7: Chill to Set
Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour, or until it is fully set and firm to the touch. This chilling time allows the gelatin to work its magic, giving your cake its signature cloud-like texture. Before serving, you can check for firmness by gently pressing the top; it should spring back slightly, indicating it’s ready to be enjoyed.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once set, remove the No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake from the refrigerator. For an extra touch of sweetness, consider topping it with whipped cream or fresh strawberries. Slice into squares and serve chilled for a refreshing dessert that is light and satisfying, perfect for any gathering or quiet evening at home.

How to Store and Freeze No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This will help maintain its fluffy texture and fresh strawberry flavor.

Freezer: If you plan to freeze your No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake, slice it into portions and wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 1 month, though the texture may change slightly upon thawing.

Thawing: To enjoy, simply transfer the frozen slices to the refrigerator for several hours or overnight to allow them to thaw gently, ensuring they retain their delightful lightness.

Serving Suggestions: Serve chilled after thawing, and consider a light topping of whipped cream or fresh strawberries to elevate the dish before serving!

Expert Tips for No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake

Use Fresh Strawberries: Ensure you opt for fresh, ripe strawberries to enhance the natural sweetness and flavor of your dessert. Frozen strawberries can add excess moisture.
Mix Thoroughly: When combining the gelatin with the strawberry puree, mix well to ensure even distribution, which is key for the right texture in your No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake.
Don’t Rush Cooling: Allow the gelatin mixture to cool to room temperature before whipping. Rushing this step may cause the mixture to set prematurely, affecting fluffiness.
Whip Until Fluffy: Use a stand mixer at high speed for about 15 minutes to achieve the airy texture; a hand mixer might not reach the same level of fluffiness as quickly.
Chill Properly: Let the cake chill for at least one hour to ensure it firms up beautifully. A well-chilled cake will have that signature cloud-like texture, making every bite delightful.

No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake Variations

Feel free to personalize this delightful dessert to match your taste and dietary preferences!

Blueberry Boost: Swap fresh strawberries for fresh blueberries for a unique flavor twist. The color will deepen, but the essence remains delicious.
Tropical Twist: Add a splash of pineapple juice to the strawberry puree for a refreshing tropical flair. This will transport you straight to a sunny beach!
Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some dark chocolate and drizzle it over the finished cake just before serving. It adds a decadent touch without overpowering the lightness.
Coconut Cream: Substitute half the applesauce with coconut cream for a creamy, tropical flavor. This variation enhances the smooth texture and adds an extra layer of richness.
Mint Infusion: Toss in a few fresh mint leaves during blending for a refreshing herbal note. Mint perfectly complements strawberries, creating a refreshing summer delight!
Spicy Kick: Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture for those who love a little heat with their sweet. This unique twist will surprise and delight your taste buds!
Dairy-Free Option: For a completely dairy-free experience, serve the cake with coconut whipped cream. It’s light, fluffy, and pairs wonderfully with the strawberry flavor.
Enhanced Flavors: Add a few drops of vanilla or almond extract to the gelatin mixture for an added flavor dimension. Simple adjustments can elevate the whole experience!

Remember, personalizing your No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake can turn this delightful dessert into a family favorite, just like my cherished Healthy Carrot Cake or Strawberry Banana Pudding. Enjoy the journey of flavor!

What to Serve with No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake

Looking to craft the perfect meal that pairs beautifully with a light and fluffy dessert?

Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: This classic combo brings a rich, creamy texture that complements the cake’s airy lightness perfectly.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant medley of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing crunch, enhancing the cake’s natural strawberry flavor. Pairing these two makes for a delightful, colorful presentation.
Zesty Lemon Tart: The tartness cuts through the sweetness, providing a bright and contrasting flavor that elevates both desserts.
Minted Cucumber Salad: This cool, crisp salad not only balances the cake’s sweetness but also adds a refreshing element, making every bite an adventure.
Sparkling Lemonade: A fizzy drink with a hint of tartness will keep the evening light and bubbly, perfectly complimenting the airy dessert.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc enhances the dessert experience with its crisp acidity and light fruit notes, making each bite all the more enjoyable.
Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: For the chocolate lovers, this pairing introduces a rich contrast to the fluffy cake, creating a truly indulgent finish.
Almond Biscotti: The crunchy texture of biscotti provides a satisfying contrast to the cloud cake while adding a nutty flavor that beautifully complements the strawberries.
Homemade Whipped Cream: Serve the cake with a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream for an extra luxurious touch!

Make Ahead Options

These No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cakes are a lifesaver for busy home cooks! You can prep the entire cake up to 24 hours in advance, keeping it refrigerated until it’s time to serve. Simply follow all the steps up to chilling the mixture in the pan. Cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap to prevent any odors from mingling in your fridge, keeping the cake deliciously fresh. When you’re ready to enjoy this refreshing dessert, just slice it into pieces and serve chilled, optionally topping with whipped cream or fresh strawberries for an elevated touch. This delightful make-ahead option allows you to enjoy an airy, guilt-free treat with minimal last-minute effort!

No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of strawberries should I use?
Absolutely, using fresh, ripe strawberries is key to achieving the best flavor in your No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake. Look for strawberries that are vibrant red and firm without dark spots all over, as these indicate over-ripeness. Avoid frozen strawberries, as they often release excess moisture, which can negatively affect the texture of your cake.

How should I store leftover cake?
Very simply! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This is essential to keep the fluffiness intact and prevent it from absorbing other odors in the fridge. If you think you might finish it before then, you can also share it with friends and family—it’s a crowd-pleaser!

Can I freeze the No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake?
Of course! To freeze, slice the cake into individual portions. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply transfer the slices to the refrigerator for several hours or overnight to thaw. This gradual thawing helps retain that delightful cloud-like texture.

What if my gelatin doesn’t dissolve properly?
If you encounter issues with the gelatin, don’t worry! Make sure to always use a double boiler method to dissolve it, stirring constantly for about 5-7 minutes until fully melted. If it seems clumpy, you can add a touch more heat while stirring, but avoid boiling the mixture. A good trick is to whisk vigorously for even dissolving, which ensures the gelatin blends seamlessly with the puree.

Is this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Yes, it’s quite versatile! The No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake is flourless and contains no eggs or butter, making it a fantastic option for those who are vegan or have dairy allergies. However, if someone is allergic to gelatin, you may want to explore alternatives like agar-agar, although this might slightly alter the texture. Always check for any personal dietary needs before serving!

Can I add flavors to the No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake?
Certainly! If you want to enhance the flavor, consider adding a few drops of strawberry extract or vanilla to the mixture before whipping it. This creates a lovely aromatic twist without adding sugar or additional calories. The more, the merrier—feel free to experiment; flavors like almond or lemon zest can add a delightful surprise to your cake!