3-Ingredient No-Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake
When dessert meets daydream, you get this 3-Ingredient No-Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake—an airy, fruit-kissed confection that’s practically magic. Think of it as a strawberry mousse meets soufflé—minus the oven, eggs, or any complicated steps. This delicate pink beauty is fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth, and perfect for summer get-togethers or weeknight cravings.
Why I Love This Recipe
Not only is it stunning, but it’s also shockingly simple. Three humble ingredients—fresh strawberries, applesauce, and gelatin—come together to create a dessert that’s both wholesome and whimsical. There’s no dairy, no added fat, and you won’t believe how cloud-like the texture becomes after a little whipping and chilling.
Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser for all ages and a fantastic make-ahead dessert.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- ½ cup chopped fresh strawberries (about ½ inch cubes)
- 1⅓ cups unsweetened applesauce
- 4½ tsp unflavored gelatin powder (15g)
Optional: Whipped cream for topping
Note: Always use fresh strawberries, not frozen, and make sure your applesauce is unsweetened.
Ingredient Notes & Swaps
- Strawberries: Use only fresh strawberries. Frozen ones tend to water down the mixture and won’t whip properly.
- Applesauce: Unsweetened is key to balance the sweetness from the berries.
- Gelatin: If you prefer plant-based, swap for agar agar, but you’ll need to adjust quantity and method.
How to Make the Cake – Step-by-Step
1. Prep Your Pan
Line an 8×8 or 9×9 square pan with parchment paper, making sure the sides are covered too. This makes slicing and lifting easy.
2. Blend to Smoothness
In a high-powered blender, combine chopped strawberries and applesauce. Blend until silky and uniform in color.
3. Whisk in Gelatin
Transfer the blend to a heatproof bowl. Sprinkle gelatin evenly over the surface and whisk thoroughly to prevent clumps.
4. Gently Heat
Use a double boiler to warm the mixture just until the gelatin dissolves completely. Avoid boiling—it should be warm, not hot.
5. Whip into a Dream
Pour into a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment. Whip on high for 15 minutes until quadrupled in volume and pillowy soft peaks form.
6. Set and Chill
Transfer the fluffy mixture into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until fully set.
7. Slice and Serve
Cut into squares using a sharp knife. Optional: top with fresh whipped cream or this dreamy no-bake Oreo cream pie for an extra treat.
Tips for Fluffy Success
- Let the gelatin mixture cool slightly before whipping.
- Beat the mix for the full 15 minutes—this builds the signature airy texture.
- Don’t rush the chill time. The cake needs to firm up to hold its light structure.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This cloud cake is light and refreshing—perfect on its own or with extras:
- Serve with: Blueberry Lemonade or mint tea
- Top with: Whipped cream, sliced strawberries, or edible flowers
- Pair with: Easter Cookies for a colorful dessert tray
Storage Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Best enjoyed within 2–3 days for ultimate fluffiness.
More Recipes You’ll Love
- How This Unicorn Poke Cake Became My Favorite Party Trick
- This Grasshopper Pie Is My Favorite No-Bake Dessert With a Mint Chocolate Twist
- This Edible Cookie Dough Is My Favorite No-Bake Treat for Late-Night Cravings
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Cloud Cake is what no-bake dreams are made of—airy, refreshing, and sweet enough to satisfy without weighing you down. Whether you’re impressing guests or indulging solo, it’s a go-to dessert worth whipping up.
Tried it? Let us know what you think in the comments below, and don’t forget to follow Chef Maniac for more magical recipes like this one!
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