There’s nothing quite like the allure of a dessert that feels indulgent yet leaves you guilt-free. Picture yourself on a warm, sunny day, with a slice of Strawberry Cloud Cake melting in your mouth—a delightful combination of fresh strawberries and airy sweetness that transports you to a summer picnic. I stumbled upon this gem when I was craving something sweet but wanted to avoid the heaviness of traditional cakes. With just three ingredients and no baking involved, this no-bake wonder is as simple as it gets and perfect for anyone looking to swap out fast food for something light and refreshing.
Best of all, this Strawberry Cloud Cake is gluten-free, low-calorie, and skips added sugars while delivering a delightful strawberry flavor that captivates the senses. I guarantee it will impress your friends at the next gathering or become a beloved regular at your family table. Join me in creating this airy delight that proves wonderful desserts don’t have to come with a tedious recipe or a long list of ingredients!
Why is Strawberry Cloud Cake a Must-Try?
Lightness: This cake boasts an incredibly airy texture that feels like a cloud in your mouth—perfect for warm days!
Simplicity: With just three ingredients, anyone can whip this up, making it a fantastic choice for busy cooks.
Guilt-Free Indulgence: Low in calories and sugar-free, this dessert allows you to satisfy your cravings without the guilt.
Versatility: Feel free to explore different fruit purees for a unique twist; the possibilities are endless!
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings, this cake impresses friends and family, proving that healthy desserts can be delicious.
Get ready to dive into a light & fluffy Strawberry Cloud Cake that’s sure to leave everyone asking for seconds!
Strawberry Cloud Cake Ingredients
• Assemble the simple necessities for a delightful dessert!
For the Cake
- Chopped Strawberries – Fresh ripe strawberries infuse sweetness and natural flavor; avoid frozen to prevent excess moisture.
- Unsweetened Applesauce – This ingredient brings moisture and substitutes for fat and eggs while keeping it light.
- Unflavored Gelatin Powder – Key for stability and structure; there are no suitable substitutes for this ingredient.
Embrace these minimal yet impactful ingredients as you create a refreshing Strawberry Cloud Cake that’s sure to brighten any occasion!
How to Make Strawberry Cloud Cake
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Prepare the Pan: Line an 8-inch or 9-inch square pan with parchment paper to create an easy-release base for your cake. This step ensures your dessert comes out beautifully after chilling.
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Blend Ingredients: In a blender, combine the chopped strawberries and unsweetened applesauce. Blend until fully pureed, enjoying the fresh scent of strawberries as you work!
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Mix Gelatin: Transfer the puree to a heat-proof bowl. Sprinkle unflavored gelatin evenly over the top and whisk together until it is well combined, making sure no lumps remain.
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Gently Heat Mixture: Use a double boiler to gently heat the gelatin mixture. Stir it while heating until the gelatin has fully dissolved but be sure not to let it boil. Once done, allow it to cool to room temperature.
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Whip the Mixture: In a stand mixer, pour in the cooled gelatin mixture and beat on high for about 15 minutes. Watch as it transforms into a light, fluffy texture, resembling whipped cream.
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Set the Cake: Pour the whipped mixture into your prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Refrigerate for a minimum of 1 hour to let it set.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once set, cut into squares using a sharp knife. Serve chilled for the best experience, and enjoy the sweet essence of strawberries in every bite.
Optional: For an added touch, top it with whipped cream or fresh strawberries before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Cloud Cake
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keeping it chilled is essential to maintain the light texture of this Strawberry Cloud Cake.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Thaw the cake slices in the fridge overnight before serving. Enjoy them straight from the fridge for the best taste and texture!
What to Serve with Strawberry Cloud Cake?
Elevate your dessert experience with delightful pairings that complement the airy sweetness of this refreshing treat.
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Fresh Berries: A mix of blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries adds a vibrant burst of flavor and texture that enhances the cake’s fruity essence.
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Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream offers a luxurious creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the cake’s fluffiness, making each bite unforgettable.
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Mint Leaves: A few fresh mint leaves as a garnish not only brighten the presentation but also provide a refreshing herbal note that balances the sweetness.
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Sliced Almonds: Toasted sliced almonds introduce a crunchy texture, creating an appealing contrast to the soft cake and enhancing the overall nutty profile.
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Coconut Flakes: Light, unsweetened coconut adds a tropical flair and chewy texture, transporting your taste buds to a sunny paradise with every bite.
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Sparkling Water with Lime: A glass of sparkling water with a splash of lime invites a thirst-quenching zest, cleansing the palate between bites of indulgent cloud cake.
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Fruit Sorbet: A scoop of lemon or raspberry sorbet delivers a cool, refreshing tang that complements the strawberry flavor while adding a fun, icy element.
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Champagne or Prosecco: For special occasions, a glass of bubbly adds a festive touch and its lightness pairs perfectly with the airy dessert.
These pairings offer a beautiful balance of flavors and textures, making your Strawberry Cloud Cake a dazzling centerpiece for any gathering!
Make Ahead Options
This 3-Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake is perfect for busy home cooks looking to prepare ahead! You can make the cake up to 24 hours before serving for the best texture and flavor. Simply follow all the steps up to the chilling point, refrigerating it in a covered container to maintain its light and airy quality. If you need to prep further in advance, you can prepare the strawberry and applesauce puree and refrigerate it separately for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to complete the cake, mix in the gelatin and whip it as indicated in the recipe. Your delicious Strawberry Cloud Cake will be just as delightful, saving you time and allowing you to enjoy its refreshing taste anytime!
Helpful Tricks for Strawberry Cloud Cake
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Fresh Strawberries: Always use ripe, fresh strawberries for the best flavor. Frozen strawberries can introduce unwanted moisture, affecting the cake’s texture.
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Proper Gelatin Measurement: Be sure to follow the recommended amount of gelatin; too much can make the cake dense, while too little will prevent it from setting properly.
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Cooling Time: Allow the gelatin mixture to reach room temperature before whipping. This step is crucial for achieving the airy texture characteristic of the Strawberry Cloud Cake.
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Pre-marking Portions: Before chilling, consider lightly scoring the top of the cake for easy slicing afterward. This tool will help you serve neat squares without messing up the presentation!
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Make-Ahead Benefits: For optimal flavor and texture, prepare the cake the day before serving. It truly allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully.
With these helpful tips, your Strawberry Cloud Cake will become a star at any gathering!
Strawberry Cloud Cake Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Strawberry Cloud Cake; the possibilities for customization are as delightful as the cake itself!
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Berry Bliss: Substitute chopped strawberries with blueberries or raspberries for a vibrant color twist. Just be mindful of the moisture content!
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Tropical Twist: Add a splash of pureed mango or pineapple for a refreshing tropical flavor that your taste buds will adore. It’s like a summer vacation in dessert form!
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Creamy Coconut: Mix in a little unsweetened coconut cream for an indulgent richness. Pairing it with strawberries creates a lovely combination of flavors and textures.
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Nutty Crunch: For added texture, consider folding in some finely chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts. The crunch adds a delightful contrast to the soft cloudiness!
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Minty Freshness: Infuse the cake with fresh mint by blending a few mint leaves with the strawberries. The cooling sensation of mint elevates the dessert beautifully!
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Coffee Whisper: Instead of fruit, try adding a teaspoon of instant coffee granules to the mix. This unexpected flavor creates a delightful touch, reminiscent of a coffeehouse treat.
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Sweetened Whip: Serve with a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream on top for a creamy contrast, enhancing the entire experience of this no-bake delight.
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Chocolate Drizzle: A drizzle of sugar-free chocolate syrup will elevate the dessert’s indulgence level. Just a touch of chocolate can make the strawberries pop even more!
With these variations, your Strawberry Cloud Cake can transform into various enticing desserts, ensuring it never gets boring at your table!
3 Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for the Strawberry Cloud Cake?
I recommend using fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor and texture. Frozen strawberries release excess moisture, which can compromise the lightness of the cake, leading to a denser result. If fresh berries aren’t available, try to consume frozen berries promptly after thawing and draining excess moisture.
How should I store leftovers of the Strawberry Cloud Cake?
Absolutely! Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping it chilled is key to maintaining that light and cloud-like texture you’ve created. Just be sure to slice it with a sharp knife for neat portions!
Can I freeze the Strawberry Cloud Cake, and how?
Yes, you can! To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This method keeps your cake fresh for up to 2 months. To enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and serve chilled for the best experience.
What should I do if my cake doesn’t set properly?
If your cake hasn’t set as expected, it could be due to improper gelatin measurement or insufficient chilling time. Ensure you’re using the correct amount of unflavored gelatin and give the cake at least an hour in the fridge to firm up. If you find it’s still too loose, you can try carefully melting and re-whipping the mixture with an extra pinch of gelatin before chilling again.
Is this Strawberry Cloud Cake suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Very! This cake is not only gluten-free and low in calories, but it’s also free of flour, eggs, added sugars, butter, and oil. However, always ensure no one has a specific allergy to any of the core ingredients, such as applesauce or gelatin. For a vegan option, consider looking for plant-based gelatin substitutes in your area.
Light & Fluffy Strawberry Cloud Cake: Guilt-Free Delight!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8-inch or 9-inch square pan with parchment paper.
- Blend Ingredients: Combine the chopped strawberries and unsweetened applesauce in a blender and blend until fully pureed.
- Mix Gelatin: Transfer the puree to a heat-proof bowl, sprinkle gelatin over the top, and whisk until well combined.
- Gently Heat Mixture: Use a double boiler to gently heat the mixture until gelatin has dissolved, then cool to room temperature.
- Whip the Mixture: In a stand mixer, beat the cooled gelatin mixture on high for about 15 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Set the Cake: Pour the whipped mixture into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Refrigerate for a minimum of 1 hour to set.
- Serve and Enjoy: Cut into squares and serve chilled for the best experience.