The kitchen buzzed as a lid clanked shut, revealing a simple yet extraordinary dessert waiting to be made—a 3-Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake! As summer approaches, I find myself craving light, refreshing treats that won’t weigh me down. This delightful cake is a perfect answer, combining the natural sweetness of strawberries and the fluffy texture of applesauce without added sugars or flour. It’s not only a low-calorie option, but also a fun, no-bake recipe that anyone can whip up in no time, making it ideal for warm gatherings or a sweet end to a busy day. Ready to create something fluffy and fabulous that melts in your mouth? Let’s dive into this airy dessert that’s sure to impress!
What makes this cake so irresistible?
Simplicity at its core: With just three ingredients, this No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake is a breeze to prepare, making it perfect for novice bakers and busy chefs alike. Light and Fluffy: Its airy texture melts in your mouth, providing a guilt-free dessert experience that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Health-Conscious Delight: Low-calorie and gluten-free, this cake fits beautifully into any healthy eating plan. Endless Variations: Feel free to experiment with different fruits or gelatin flavors, creating new taste experiences for every gathering. Plus, with no baking required, you can whip it up quickly and enjoy more time in the sunshine! Dive into this delightful dessert and make your summer gatherings unforgettable!
No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake Ingredients
For the Cake Base
- Chopped Strawberries – Use fresh, sweet strawberries for the best flavor; avoid frozen to ensure texture.
- Unsweetened Applesauce – Acts as a perfect binding agent, creating a fluffy consistency without added sugars.
- Unflavored Gelatin Powder – Crucial for structure; don’t substitute it or the cake may not set properly.
Optional Topping
- Whipped Cream – For added sweetness and decadence; serve on the side to allow guests to customize their dessert.
- Fresh Strawberry Slices – Garnish with fresh strawberries for an appealing presentation and extra fruity goodness.
Explore the wondrous flavors of this No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake and indulge in a dessert that’s not only easy to make but also perfect for warm, sunny days!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Begin by lining an 8 or 9-inch square pan with parchment paper, making sure to cover the bottom and sides fully. This will help you easily remove the cake later. Ensure the paper overlaps the edges slightly so it’s simple to lift the finished dessert out when ready.
Step 2: Blend the Fruit
In a blender, combine the chopped strawberries with the unsweetened applesauce. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and well-pureed, resembling a thick fruit sauce. Take a moment to appreciate the vibrant color and fresh aroma of your strawberry-applesauce blend; this will be the base of your No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake.
Step 3: Mix in Gelatin
Transfer the strawberry-applesauce puree to a large, heat-proof bowl. Sprinkle the unflavored gelatin over the mixture, then whisk thoroughly until the gelatin is fully incorporated. This step ensures that the gelatin binds perfectly with the fruity mixture, preparing it for a delightful fluffy texture.
Step 4: Dissolve Gelatin Mixture
Using a double boiler, gently heat the gelatin and fruit mixture over simmering water. Stir continuously until the gelatin is completely dissolved, which should take about 5 minutes. Keep the mixture warm, but avoid boiling; this temperature keeps the ingredients ready for the final aeration step without compromising their freshness.
Step 5: Whip the Mixture
Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then transfer it to a stand mixer. Whip the mixture at high speed for about 15 minutes, watching as it quadruples in volume and transforms into a light, airy texture similar to whipped cream. The fluffy consistency is crucial for the success of your No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake.
Step 6: Pour into Pan
Once whipped to perfection, pour the fluffy mixture into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to smooth the surface evenly, ensuring there are no air bubbles. This step is important to achieve the beautiful cloud-like appearance of the cake as it sets.
Step 7: Chill to Set
Transfer the pan to the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 1 hour to ensure the cake sets properly. If you have the time, chilling it overnight will enhance the flavor and texture, but a minimum of 1 hour will still give you a delightful No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once set, remove the cake from the pan by lifting the parchment paper. Cut into squares and serve chilled, optionally topping with freshly whipped cream and extra strawberry slices for a beautiful presentation. This light dessert is best enjoyed straight from the refrigerator, making it a perfect treat for any warm gathering!
No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize this light, fluffy dessert in delightful ways!
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Berry Twist: Substitute strawberries for blueberries or raspberries to create new flavor profiles. Keep in mind that other berries may yield slightly different textures.
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Bold Flavor: Add a teaspoon of strawberry extract to enhance the berry flavor and add a more dynamic taste.
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Gelatin Flavor: Use strawberry-flavored gelatin instead of unflavored for an even more intense fruity flavor experience. It could surprise your taste buds!
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Make it Tropical: Replace strawberries with pineapple or mango for a tropical twist. Imagine the sunny flavors dancing on your palate!
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Dairy-Free Delight: Swap the optional whipped cream topping for coconut cream for a surprisingly delicious, dairy-free treat. Natural sweetness complements the cloud cake beautifully!
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Nutty Crunch: Add a layer of crushed nuts like almonds or walnuts on top for added texture and a satisfying crunch. It’s a wonderful contrast to the cake’s softness.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle a bit of melted dark chocolate over the top before serving for a decadent chocolate and strawberry combo that’s hard to resist.
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Berry Compote: Serve with a homemade berry compote for a refreshing sauce that adds moisture and extra fruity goodness to each slice. This drizzle will elevate your dessert to new heights!
By exploring these variations, you’ll keep your dessert fascinating and enjoyable, ensuring every bite offers something a little different. And if you’re looking for more delightful treats, don’t forget to check out these Bake Blueberry Cheesecake or lovely Strawberry Banana Pudding recipes!
Expert Tips for No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake
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Gelatin Perfection: Ensure the gelatin is completely dissolved during heating; undissolved gelatin can lead to a grainy texture, ruining your fluffy cake.
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Fresh Ingredients: Use only fresh, ripe strawberries to achieve the best flavor. Frozen berries contain excess moisture that may affect the cake’s lightness.
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Avoid Sweeteners: Don’t add sweeteners to the cake mix; they can weigh it down and prevent the desired fluffy texture. Instead, sweeten the whipped cream if preferred.
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Chill Time: For optimal flavor and texture, let the No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake chill overnight. This helps all the flavors meld beautifully.
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Mixing Speed: Whip the mixture at high speed for full 15 minutes to achieve the airy texture necessary for a cloud-like dessert.
What to Serve with 3 Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake
Imagine the sweet aroma of summer wafting through your kitchen as you assemble a delightful meal, with the lightness of this strawberry cloud cake ready to shine.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits enhances the cake’s refreshing flavors, adding a juicy and vibrant contrast. The burst of different textures complements the softness of the cloud cake.
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Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola creates a satisfying crunch, making each bite a delightful balance of creaminess and cake. This pairing transforms dessert into a wholesome breakfast treat!
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Lemon Sorbet: The tartness of lemon sorbet will cut through the sweetness, creating a refreshing palate cleanser. Ideal for warm days, it elevates your dessert experience to a new level.
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Mint Iced Tea: A cool glass of mint iced tea is the perfect drink to accompany this cake, bringing a refreshing balance with its soothing flavor. The herbal notes pair wonderfully with strawberry’s fruity sweetness.
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Almond Biscotti: Crunchy and nutty, biscotti provides a delightful contrast to the fluffy cake. Dip them in a glass of your favorite beverage for a sweet crunch.
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Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: These bite-sized treats offer a lovely touch of indulgence, complementing the cake’s strawberry flavor while adding a hint of elegance to the presentation.
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Light Whipped Cream: A dollop of light whipped cream adds a touch of sweetness and richness, enhancing the texture of each slice while inviting guests to indulge a little more.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess and rich flavor of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully, making for a classic yet delightful summer dessert experience.
With these tempting pairings, you’ll create a memorable meal that celebrates the light and airy bliss of the No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake!
Storage Tips for No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake in slices, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Serving: Enjoy the cake chilled straight from the fridge. If desired, add a dollop of whipped cream or fresh fruits just before serving for an extra touch of delight.
Make-Ahead: This dessert is perfect for preparation ahead of time; chill overnight for optimal flavor and texture before serving at your summer gatherings.
Make Ahead Options
These No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cakes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to prepare delicious desserts ahead of time! You can blend the chopped strawberries and applesauce, then incorporate the unflavored gelatin into the mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cover the fruit mixture tightly and refrigerate it to maintain freshness and flavor. When you’re ready to serve, whip the mixture until it quadruples in volume, then pour it into your prepared pan and chill for at least 1 hour. For optimal texture and taste, consider letting it set overnight. This way, you’ll have a light, airy dessert ready to impress your guests without the last-minute rush!
No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake Recipe FAQs
What kind of strawberries should I use?
Absolutely, for the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh, ripe strawberries that are sweet and vibrant. Avoid frozen strawberries, as they tend to have excess moisture, which can affect the cake’s lightness. Look for strawberries that are plump, firm, and have a bright red color without dark spots.
How should I store leftovers of this cake?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will help maintain its freshness and texture. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil to prevent freezer burn.
Can I freeze the No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake?
Yes, you can freeze this delicious cake! For best results, slice it into individual servings and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight before serving. This way, you can savor that lovely fluffy texture!
What if my gelatin doesn’t dissolve fully?
If your gelatin doesn’t dissolve completely, that could lead to a grainy texture in your cake. To avoid this, make sure to heat the gelatin mixture gently over simmering water (in a double boiler) and stir continuously until it is fully dissolved, which usually takes about 5 minutes. Remember, no boiling—just warm enough to melt the gelatin smoothly!
Is this cake suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Very! This No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake is not only low-calorie and gluten-free but it also contains no added sugars, making it a great dessert option for health-conscious individuals. However, if anyone has gelatin allergies, you might want to explore plant-based alternatives like agar-agar, though this may alter the cake’s texture slightly.
Can I substitute the fruits in this recipe?
Of course! If strawberries aren’t your favorite or if you’re looking to mix it up, you can substitute them with blueberries or raspberries. Just be mindful that other berries might not yield the same fluffy texture. Consider adding a little strawberry extract to enhance the flavor if you go with a berry swap!
Light and Fluffy No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake for Summer Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Line an 8 or 9-inch square pan with parchment paper.
- Blend chopped strawberries with unsweetened applesauce until smooth.
- Transfer mixture to a bowl and whisk in gelatin until fully incorporated.
- Gently heat the mixture over a double boiler until gelatin is dissolved.
- Allow to cool and then whip the mixture at high speed for about 15 minutes.
- Pour the whipped mixture into the prepared pan and smooth the surface.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- Remove from the pan, cut into squares, and serve with optional toppings.