Name: No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake - Light, Fluffy & Irresistible
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Chopped Strawberries (Fresh, ripe for the best flavor); 1 cup Unsweetened Applesauce (For binding and sweetness); 1 tablespoon Unflavored Gelatin Powder (Essential for structure)

As the warm sun begins to peek through the kitchen window, I’m irresistibly drawn to something light and airy to satisfy my sweet tooth. That’s when I whip up my favorite No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake—a delightful dessert that requires just three simple ingredients! This recipe not only saves time during those hectic days, but it also lets fresh strawberries shine without the need for baking, offering a refreshing treat that feels like a fluffy dream. Perfect for picnics, gatherings, or a solitary indulgence, it’s low-calorie, low-sugar, and gluten-free, making it guilt-free bliss. Are you ready to experience a dessert that’s as easy to make as it is to devour? Let’s dive in!

Why is this No Bake Cake a Must-Try?

Simplicity at its finest: With just three ingredients, whipping up this cake is a breeze, making it a fantastic option for both seasoned chefs and kitchen novices alike.

Light and Fluffy: This dessert is perfect for warm days when you want something sweet without the heaviness of traditional cakes. You’ll feel as though you’re indulging in a fluffy cloud!

Healthy Indulgence: Guilt-free doesn’t have to mean tasteless! At only 23 calories per slice, you can enjoy dessert without compromising your diet.

Versatile flavor options: Love strawberries? You can easily switch to blueberries for a delicious twist, or add a splash of strawberry extract for an extra boost!

Impressive Presentation: This cake is not only delicious but visually stunning, making it an ideal dessert for gatherings. Pair it with some sweetened whipped cream, and watch your guests swoon!

Ideal for summer gatherings or a quiet night in, this No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake is a delightful treat that offers both ease and satisfaction. For similar refreshing treats, don’t miss out on this Strawberry Cheesecake Protein or the Easy No Bake Cheesecake!

No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake Ingredients

For the Base
Chopped Strawberries – Rich in natural sweetness and flavor; opt for fresh, ripe strawberries to avoid excess moisture from frozen ones.
Unsweetened Applesauce – Acts as a fluffy binder and natural sweetener; stick to unsweetened for the best texture and sweetness balance.
For the Structure
Unflavored Gelatin Powder – Essential for giving the cake its light and airy structure; don’t substitute, as alternatives won’t achieve the same setting effect.

With these three simple ingredients, you can create a luscious No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake that’s not only easy to make but also a heartwarming crowd-pleaser! Happy cooking!

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

Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Start by lining an 8 or 9-inch square pan with parchment paper, ensuring it covers all sides for easy removal later. This step is essential for making the cake lift out smoothly after it sets. Place the pan on a stable surface while you prepare the filling for your No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake.

Step 2: Blend Strawberries and Applesauce
In a blender, combine the chopped strawberries with the unsweetened applesauce. Blend the mixture until it becomes perfectly smooth, which should take about 1–2 minutes. The vibrant color and fresh smell will prepare you for the delightful dessert ahead. Set this puree aside for the next step.

Step 3: Mix in Gelatin
In a large mixing bowl, pour your strawberry-applesauce puree and sprinkle in the unflavored gelatin. Using a whisk, mix vigorously until the gelatin is fully integrated, which should take about 1–2 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving the fluffy texture of the No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake, so ensure there are no lumps.

Step 4: Dissolve Gelatin Mixture
Set up a double boiler by placing a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water. Gently transfer your gelatin mixture to this bowl and heat it, stirring continuously for about 3–5 minutes. The mixture should feel warm but not hot, ensuring the gelatin dissolves fully without cooking the fruit puree.

Step 5: Allow to Cool
Once the gelatin is dissolved, remove the bowl from the heat and let it cool for about 5–10 minutes. You want the mixture to be slightly warm to the touch. This cooling step is vital before whipping to avoid curdling the mixture in the next step.

Step 6: Whip the Mixture
Using a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, pour the cooled gelatin mixture into the bowl. Beat on high speed for about 15 minutes, or until it quadruples in volume and resembles whipped cream. The light and airy consistency is what makes your No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake so delightful!

Step 7: Pour into the Pan
Carefully pour the fluffy mixture into the prepared pan, using a spatula to smooth the surface. Make sure it’s evenly distributed to ensure a beautiful presentation once set. Now, you’re just a refrigeration step away from enjoying this airy dessert.

Step 8: Refrigerate to Set
Cover the pan with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the cake to chill for at least 1 hour, or until it’s fully set. This resting time will help solidify the fluffy texture, making your No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake slice beautifully.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Once set, remove the cake from the refrigerator and gently lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper. Cut it into slices with a sharp knife for clean edges. Serve chilled, optionally topped with sweetened whipped cream for added indulgence, and savor this delightful creation.

What to Serve with No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake

Bring your gatherings to life with delightful pairings that perfectly complement this creamy and dreamy dessert!

Sweetened Whipped Cream: Adding a dollop of whipped cream elevates the cloud cake’s taste and enhances its lightness, creating a blissful bite. The creaminess contrasts beautifully with the fluffy texture of the cake.
Greek Yogurt: For a tangy twist, serve your cake with a side of creamy Greek yogurt. Its slight tartness balances the sweetness of the strawberries, making each bite more delightful.
Fresh Berries: A medley of fresh berries, like raspberries or blueberries, adds a refreshing crunch. They not only enhance the flavors but also brighten up your dessert table visually.
Mint Leaves: Garnishing with fresh mint leaves not only adds a pop of color but also infuses a refreshing aroma. The mint’s coolness pairs wonderfully with the sweet strawberry notes.
Sparkling Water with Lime: A chilled glass of sparkling water with a squeeze of lime is a perfect beverage to cleanse the palate and refresh your senses between cake bites.
Coconut Macaroons: These coconut treats provide a chewy, toasted flavor contrast, creating a satisfying texture harmony with the airy cake. A bite of macaroon with a cloud cake slice feels like a tropical escape.
Ice Cream: For an indulgent twist, serve the cloud cake with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream. The creaminess of the ice cream complements the lightness of the cake perfectly.

Elevate your dessert experience by pairing this light and fluffy No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake with these complementary treats!

Make Ahead Options

This No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake is a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you time on busy days! You can prepare the strawberry-applesauce mixture up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply blend the chopped strawberries with unsweetened applesauce, and store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The gelatin mixture can also be prepped ahead; just mix it together and keep it ready to warm just before whipping. When you’re ready to serve, simply whip the mixture as instructed, pour it into the pan, and refrigerate until set. You’ll have this delightful dessert ready with minimal effort on your part!

No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake Variations

Feel free to get creative with your No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake! These variations will spice up your dessert experience.

Berry Medley: Substitute strawberries with a mix of fresh blueberries and raspberries for a vibrant color and flavor twist. The combination provides a delightful tartness and sweetness, making it perfect for summer gatherings.
Dairy-Free Delight: Swap the unsweetened applesauce with a ripe mashed banana. This will add a banana flavor and keep the cake light and fluffy while maintaining that healthy edge.
Vanilla Bean Essence: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract into the strawberry mixture for a warm, aromatic depth. It elevates the overall flavor profile, making each bite a fragrant delight.
Chocolate Indulgence: Add 1–2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the gelatin mixture for a chocolatey version! This rich twist will tantalize chocolate lovers while keeping the fluffy, no-bake texture.
Nutty Crunch: Fold in crushed nuts such as almonds or pecans into the whipped mixture before setting. This adds an exciting texture contrast, making each slice a delightful surprise.
Minty Freshness: Add a handful of finely chopped fresh mint leaves to the mixture for a refreshing herbal note. The mint pairs beautifully with strawberries, creating a cake that’s bright and invigorating.
Citrus Zing: Add the zest of one lemon or lime to the strawberry-applesauce puree for a bright citrus boost. This touch of acidity perfectly balances the sweetness of the strawberries.

For more delightful no-bake inspirations, try the Easy No Bake Cheesecake or indulge in a lovely Strawberry Cream Japanese Cake. Each version brings its own twist to the classic theme of light, fluffy desserts!

Expert Tips for No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake

Perfect Strawberries: Always use fresh, ripe strawberries; frozen ones can add excess moisture, affecting the cake’s texture.
Gelatin Integrity: Make sure the unflavored gelatin is completely dissolved to achieve the airy volume that makes the No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake so delightful.
Avoid Overmixing: When whipping the gelatin mixture, be cautious not to over or under-mix, as this will impact the final fluffiness.
Cool Before Whipping: Allow the gelatin mixture to cool slightly before whipping, which helps prevent curdling and ensures a smoother texture.
Sharp Slicing: Use a very sharp knife to slice the cake after refrigeration for clean, beautiful edges that enhance the presentation.

Storage Tips for No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake

Fridge: Store any leftover No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain its freshness and fluffy texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving to retain its airy quality.
Serving: When ready to enjoy, serve the cake chilled from the fridge or after thawing; consider topping with sweetened whipped cream just before serving for a delightful finish.
Pre-Making: This cake can be made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while saving you time on the day of your gathering.

No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake Recipe FAQs

What kind of strawberries should I use?
Absolutely fresh, ripe strawberries are a must! Look for strawberries that are bright red and firm to the touch. Avoid frozen strawberries as they can introduce excess moisture, resulting in a dense texture instead of that delightful airy lightness we all love.

How do I store leftovers from the No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake?
To keep your cake fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s well-sealed to prevent it from absorbing any odors from the fridge. If you’re planning to enjoy it later, this cake can also be frozen for up to 2 months! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then thaw it in the fridge before serving.

Can I freeze the No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake?
Yes, you can! To freeze, first allow the cake to set completely in the fridge. Once set, cut it into slices if desired, then wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge for a few hours, and enjoy that fluffy texture!

What should I do if my gelatin doesn’t dissolve properly?
No worries! If your gelatin seems clumpy or doesn’t dissolve, it may have been overheated. Next time, make sure to gently warm it over simmering water and stir continuously for 3-5 minutes until fully dissolved and only warm to the touch. If you notice clumps after mixing with the fruit puree, gently reheat over a double boiler while stirring until completely smooth, ensuring to avoid overheating.

Is this No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake safe for people with allergies?
Since this recipe contains only three ingredients, it’s quite friendly for many dietary needs, being gluten-free and low-sugar. However, always check for specific allergies against the ingredients. I recommend consulting with guests on any fruit allergies before serving, and for those with a gelatin allergy, it might be best to explore a vegan substitute, like agar-agar, although results may vary.

Can I add more ingredients to the cake?
Very! While this No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake shines with its simplicity, feel free to get creative! Consider folding in a splash of vanilla extract or, for a berry twist, mix in blueberries or raspberries. Just remember that additional liquids, like juice or syrup, should be kept minimal to maintain texture and structure!