3 Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake Recipe
Introduction
This 3 Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake is a light and airy dessert perfect for warm days or when you want something sweet without turning on the oven. It combines fresh strawberries, applesauce, and gelatin to create a fluffy, fruity treat that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (77 g) chopped strawberries (chopped into 1/2 inch cubes)
- 1 1/3 cups (313 g) unsweetened applesauce
- 4 1/2 tsp (15 g) unflavored gelatin powder
Instructions
- Step 1: Line the sides and bottom of an 8 or 9 inch square pan with a large sheet of parchment paper, using a single sheet so you can lift the cake out easily once set.
- Step 2: Combine the chopped strawberries and applesauce in a blender. Blend on high speed until the strawberries are completely pureed and the mixture is uniform in color.
- Step 3: Pour the puree into a large heat-proof mixing bowl. Sprinkle the gelatin evenly over the surface, then whisk gently until the gelatin is fully incorporated and the mixture thickens slightly.
- Step 4: Using a double boiler, warm the mixture on the stove, stirring until the gelatin dissolves completely and the mixture becomes thinner and more liquidy. Ensure it feels warm but not hot, and do not let it boil. Remove from heat and allow to cool to room temperature for about 10 minutes.
- Step 5: Transfer the cooled mixture to the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a wire whisk. Beat on the highest speed for about 15 minutes until the mixture quadruples in volume and resembles airy whipped cream. The whisk should hold a soft peak when lifted.
- Step 6: Pour the whipped mixture into the prepared pan, spreading evenly with a spatula to smooth the surface. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set completely.
- Step 7: Keep the cake chilled until ready to serve. For extra flavor, decorate with whipped cream or your favorite frosting before slicing with a very large, sharp knife. Serve chilled.
Tips & Variations
- For a fun twist, try adding other fresh fruits like raspberries or blueberries in place of strawberries.
- Use flavored gelatin powder to add extra flavor, but reduce or omit the applesauce sweetness accordingly.
- Be sure not to overheat the gelatin mixture to prevent it from losing its setting ability.
Storage
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat is not recommended, as the cake is best enjoyed chilled to maintain its light, cloud-like texture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh or frozen strawberries?
Fresh strawberries are best for this recipe to ensure optimal texture and flavor, but if using frozen strawberries, thaw and drain excess liquid before blending.
Can I make this cake dairy-free?
Yes, this cake is naturally dairy-free since it uses applesauce and gelatin. Just be sure to use dairy-free frosting if you choose to decorate it.
Print3 Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake Recipe
This light and airy 3 Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake is a refreshing dessert made with fresh strawberries, unsweetened applesauce, and unflavored gelatin. Blended and whipped into a fluffy mousse-like texture, this no-bake cake sets in the refrigerator to create a deliciously smooth and fruity treat that requires minimal ingredients and effort.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Fruit Puree
- 1/2 cup (77 g) chopped strawberries, cut into 1/2 inch cubes
- 1 1/3 cups (313 g) unsweetened applesauce
Gelatin Mixture
- 4 1/2 tsp (15 g) unflavored gelatin powder
Instructions
- Prepare Pan: Line the sides and bottom of an 8 or 9 inch square pan with a large single sheet of parchment paper. This makes it easier to lift out the cake after setting.
- Blend Strawberries and Applesauce: Place chopped strawberries and unsweetened applesauce into a blender. Blend on high speed until the strawberries are fully pureed and the mixture is uniform in color.
- Incorporate Gelatin: Pour the puree into a large heat-proof mixing bowl. Evenly sprinkle gelatin powder across the surface and whisk thoroughly to fully incorporate. The mixture should thicken and become slightly chunky due to the gelatin.
- Dissolve Gelatin Using Double Boiler: Using the double boiler method on the stove, gently heat the mixture while stirring to completely dissolve the gelatin. Be careful not to overheat; the mixture should become thinner and liquidy and feel warm but not hot to the touch. Remove from heat and let it cool at room temperature for about 10 minutes.
- Whip Mixture: Transfer the gelatin mixture to a stand mixer fitted with a wire whisk attachment. Beat on highest speed for about 15 minutes until the volume quadruples and the texture resembles light, airy whipped cream. The mixture should hold a soft peak when the whisk is lifted.
- Set the Cake: Pour the whipped mixture into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly and smooth the surface. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the cake to set properly.
- Serve and Store: Keep the cake refrigerated until ready to serve. Optionally, decorate with whipped cream or any preferred frosting before slicing. Use a large, sharp knife to cut, and serve chilled. Store any leftover cake in the fridge.
Notes
- Ensure the gelatin is fully dissolved to avoid lumps in the final cake texture.
- Do not overheat the mixture while dissolving gelatin; overheating can affect the setting properties.
- For best results, use fresh, ripe strawberries for a natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water to make cleaner slices when serving.
- This cake is best enjoyed chilled and should be stored in the refrigerator to maintain texture.
Keywords: no bake strawberry cake, strawberry cloud cake, easy no bake dessert, gelatin dessert, fruit mousse cake, healthy strawberry dessert
