3 Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake Recipe

If you’ve ever wished for a dessert that’s as light as a cloud, bursting with fresh berry flavor, and requires almost no effort, the 3 Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake is your answer. This delightful cake is a blissful marriage of juicy strawberries, natural applesauce, and airy texture, all held together by a gentle touch of gelatin. With no need for baking and only three humble ingredients, this luscious, pretty-in-pink treat comes together in a snap and sets with a dreamy, mousse-like finish that’ll make you the star of any gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Part of the beauty of 3 Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake is just how minimal the ingredients list is, yet each one brings something essential to the table. From flavor and color to that gently bouncy texture, these three items work together in perfect harmony for a show-stopping finish.

• Chopped Strawberries: Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the boldest flavor and a beautiful ruby hue in every bite.
• Unsweetened Applesauce: This ingredient not only sweetens the cake naturally but also adds moisture and makes the texture irresistibly soft.
• Unflavored Gelatin Powder: Gelatin provides the structure and signature cloud-like lift that makes the cake sliceable yet airy.

How to Make 3 Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Line the sides and bottom of an 8-inch or 9-inch square pan with a single large sheet of parchment paper. Make sure the paper fits snugly and has enough overhang for you to later lift the entire cake out easily. This simple step guarantees a picture-perfect release when it’s time to serve.

Step 2: Blend the Fruits

Pop the chopped strawberries and unsweetened applesauce into your blender. Let it whirl on high speed until the strawberries are completely pureed and the mixture is a gorgeous, uniformly pink color. You’re looking for a silky smooth texture here – this creates the base for the fluffy cloud consistency.

Step 3: Mix in Gelatin

Pour your strawberry-apple mixture into a large heat-proof mixing bowl. Sprinkle the unflavored gelatin evenly across the surface, then whisk until no dry powder remains. At first, the gelatin will make the puree a bit thicker and chunkier, but don’t worry, this will soon turn into the airy, fluffy dream you’re after!

Step 4: Gently Dissolve the Gelatin

Set up a double boiler on your stove. Place the bowl with the fruit and gelatin mixture over simmering water and stir constantly. The heat should gently dissolve the gelatin – you’ll notice the mixture turning more liquid as the gelatin melts. It should feel warm (but never hot) to the touch. Avoid boiling, as too much heat can ruin the delicate texture. Once done, remove from the stove and cool for about 10 minutes.

Step 5: Whip to Perfection

Pour the cooled mixture into your stand mixer fitted with the wire whisk attachment. Whisk on the highest speed for about 15 minutes. Watch as the pale pink mixture transforms into a frothy cloud that will at least quadruple in volume, just like magic! When finished, the mixture should hold a soft peak on the whisk – the sign of perfect fluffiness.

Step 6: Mold and Chill

Transfer the whipped mixture into your prepared pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly and smooth the top. Pop the pan into the refrigerator for at least an hour to let the cake set and develop its signature jiggly, cloud-like vibe.

Step 7: Chill Until Serving

Keep the 3 Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake chilled until you’re ready to serve. Just before bringing it to the table, decorate with whipped cream or your favorite frosting if desired. Slicing this cake is easiest with a large, sharp knife, and remember, it tastes best straight from the fridge!

How to Serve 3 Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake

Garnishes

Add an extra flourish to your cake with toppings like billowy whipped cream, a scattering of fresh strawberry slices, or a dusting of powdered sugar. These pretty garnishes celebrate the cake’s berry-forward flavor and irresistible soft texture.

Side Dishes

Pair your Strawberry Cloud Cake with a platter of mixed fresh berries, or serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert plate that looks and tastes simply heavenly. If you want a little contrast, a tangy lemon sorbet works wonders too.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting the 3 Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake into small cubes for pastel-colored petit fours, or use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to make individual cloud cake portions for special occasions. Layer slices in parfait glasses with extra fruit and cream for a playful trifle effect!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover 3 Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. The texture stays airy and wonderful for up to three days, making it a fantastic prepare-ahead treat.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze slices of the cake individually on a baking sheet, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag. While freezing keeps the flavor, the texture won’t be as cloud-like after thawing, but it will transform into a delightful frozen mousse treat.

Reheating

No reheating is necessary for this cake. In fact, serving the 3 Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake chilled is what gives it that delicious, ethereal bite! If frozen, just let slices thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours before enjoying.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just thaw the strawberries completely and blot away any excess moisture before blending with the applesauce. This keeps the texture light and creamy instead of watery.

Is there a vegetarian-friendly alternative for gelatin?

You can try using agar agar powder for a vegetarian version, but be aware that the texture may be a bit firmer and not quite as bouncy as the original. Follow the package directions for substitution amounts.

Why does my cake fall flat after beating?

If your cake doesn’t whip up as fluffy as expected, it could be due to insufficient beating time or using a hand mixer that’s not quite strong enough. For best results, use a stand mixer and beat for the full 15 minutes to achieve that cloud-like lift.

Can I add sugar or other flavorings?

Certainly! If you’d like a sweeter cake, add up to 2 tablespoons of sugar to the fruit blend before adding gelatin. You can also mix in a splash of vanilla extract for a hint of warmth and depth.

How far in advance can I make this cake for a party?

The 3 Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake is perfect for parties because it can be made a day or two ahead of time and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. Just garnish right before serving for the freshest presentation.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a show-stopping dessert that’s as effortless as it is unforgettable, you simply have to try the 3 Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake. Few treats deliver so much magic from so little effort. Whip it up and prepare for smiles all around!

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