Strawberry Cloud Cake 3 Ingredients

Strawberry Cloud Cake 3 Ingredients is one of those magical desserts that feels as light as air and just as joyful to make. Hi, I’m Amanda. Cooking has always been more than just a daily task for me—it’s a way to create comfort, connection, and joy. My sister and I made this dreamy no-bake cake together, laughing as strawberries rolled away and applesauce splattered everywhere. We ended up with sticky fingers, sweet smiles, and a dessert that melted like a cloud. Make it and tell me — who’s the better cook in your family?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Strawberry Cloud Cake is everything you want in a simple dessert—light, fluffy, and made with only three wholesome ingredients. It’s a perfect make-ahead treat for gatherings, especially when you want something sweet but refreshing. The natural fruit flavor shines, and its delicate texture is both elegant and fun. Think of it as a guilt-free indulgence you can enjoy any time of year, especially during warm days when turning on the oven sounds unbearable.

Ingredients

• Fresh strawberries – Sweet, ripe, and bursting with real berry flavor.
• Unsweetened applesauce – Adds moisture and body without extra sugar.
• Unflavored gelatin powder – The secret ingredient that gives the cake its airy, cloudlike structure.

Directions

1. Prepare your pan.
   Line the sides and bottom of an 8- or 9-inch square pan with a large sheet of parchment paper. This makes it easy to lift the cake out once it’s set.
2. Blend the base.
   Add the strawberries and unsweetened applesauce to a blender. Blend on high until the mixture is smooth and evenly pink.
3. Incorporate the gelatin.
   Pour the strawberry-applesauce mixture into a large, heatproof bowl. Sprinkle the unflavored gelatin evenly across the surface, then whisk until fully combined. The texture should thicken slightly.
4. Dissolve the gelatin.
   Using a double boiler method, gently warm the mixture until the gelatin dissolves completely. It should feel warm but not hot—never boiling. Once done, let it cool at room temperature for about 10 minutes.
5. Whip it up.
   Transfer the cooled mixture into a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment (a hand mixer also works, though it may take longer). Beat on high speed for about 15 minutes. The mixture should quadruple in volume, becoming pale, airy, and mousse-like.
6. Pour and chill.
   Spread the fluffy batter evenly into the prepared pan. Smooth the surface, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour—or overnight—for the perfect texture.
7. Slice and serve.
   Once set, lift the cake from the pan and slice with a sharp knife. For extra flavor and beauty, top with lightly sweetened whipped cream or fresh strawberry slices before serving.

Technique Note

This dessert draws inspiration from Japanese-style “cloud” recipes that use whipped gelatin mixtures for a melt-in-your-mouth feel. It’s a modern twist on classic fruit mousseairy, elegant, and satisfying without being rich or heavy. You’ll love its minimalist charm and refreshing texture.

Serving Suggestions

There are so many fun and beautiful ways to serve this Strawberry Cloud Cake 3 Ingredients dessert. Because it’s light, airy, and chilled, it pairs beautifully with both fruity and creamy additions that highlight its delicate strawberry flavor. Here are a few creative ideas to make your presentation shine:

• Topped with fresh whipped cream – A soft cloud of whipped cream adds richness and makes every bite taste like strawberry shortcake. You can use homemade or store-bought—either way, it adds a lovely balance.
• Paired with a side of mixed berries – Blueberries, raspberries, and extra sliced strawberries add color and a burst of natural sweetness. The contrast of textures makes the dessert feel fresh and vibrant.
• Served with mint leaves for a refreshing touch – A small sprig of mint on top gives a light herbal note that enhances the fruitiness of the cake. It’s also a beautiful way to garnish for guests.
• Layered in parfait cups with fruit and cream – For a fun twist, spoon layers of cloud cake, whipped cream, and chopped fruit into glasses. It’s elegant, easy to serve, and looks like a fancy café dessert.
• With a drizzle of berry coulis or honey – Add a gentle drizzle for extra flavor and shine without overpowering the airy texture.
• Beside a scoop of vanilla yogurt or frozen yogurt – Perfect for a light brunch-style dessert.

Pro Tips for Success

To get that perfect cloudlike texture and a beautiful finish, keep these tips in mind while preparing your cake:

• Use fresh strawberries, not frozen. Frozen berries release too much water, preventing the mixture from whipping up properly.
• Unsweetened applesauce only! The natural tartness balances the strawberries, while added sugar can weigh the batter down.
• Let the gelatin cool slightly before whipping. If it’s too hot, it won’t incorporate enough air; if it’s too cold, it can start to set too soon.
• Whip long enough to get volume. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s pale pink and quadrupled in size.
• Chill for at least an hour, ideally overnight. This allows the texture to firm up into that perfect, sliceable mousse-like cake.
• Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water between slices to keep each piece smooth and clean.
• For extra sweetness, add whipped cream frosting or dust lightly with powdered freeze-dried strawberries before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this recipe is easy, a few small missteps can change the texture. Here’s what to watch out for:

• ⚠️ Using sweetened applesauce: The added sugar stops the mixture from whipping into a light, airy foam.
• ⚠️ Boiling the gelatin mixture: High heat breaks down gelatin, resulting in a rubbery or dense texture.
• ⚠️ Using frozen strawberries: They make the mixture watery and heavy, preventing it from setting correctly.
• ⚠️ Not whipping long enough: The mixture must expand and hold soft peaks to achieve the cloudlike consistency.
• ⚠️ Skipping chill time: The cake won’t hold its structure without enough refrigeration. Be patient—it’s worth it!

Storage & Reheating

• Fridge: Store the cake in an airtight container or tightly covered with plastic wrap for 3–4 days. Always serve chilled.
• Freezer: Freezing isn’t recommended because the texture will become icy and lose its delicate fluffiness once thawed.
• Reheat: None needed—this dessert is meant to be served cold for that refreshing, melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use flavored gelatin like strawberry Jell-O instead of unflavored gelatin?
No. Flavored gelatin contains sugar and artificial ingredients that prevent the mixture from aerating and setting properly. Stick with plain, unflavored gelatin for best results.

Q2: Can I use a hand mixer instead of a stand mixer?
: Yes! It may take a few extra minutes to reach the same airy volume, but it works perfectly fine. Just be patient and whip until you see soft peaks.

Q3: Can I freeze the cake for later?
: It’s best enjoyed from the fridge. Freezing alters the structure and can cause it to separate once thawed.

Q4: How can I make it a bit sweeter without ruining the texture?
: Don’t add sugar to the batter—sweeten with toppings instead. A sweetened whipped cream, drizzle of honey, or a sugar-free syrup works beautifully.

Q5: Can I try this recipe with other fruits?
: Yes! However, the texture may vary. Blueberries, raspberries, and mixed berries can be used, though they won’t fluff up as much and might slightly change the color. Strawberries remain the most reliable choice for a light, pink, and fluffy result.

Closing Paragraph

This 3 Ingredient Strawberry Cloud Cake proves that simplicity can be stunning. With no baking required and just a few ingredients, it delivers a melt-in-your-mouth experience that feels both indulgent and light. Whether served at a family dinner or as a summer treat, this airy pink dessert will bring smiles all around. Enjoy it chilled, topped with whipped cream, and savor each cool, strawberry-scented bite.

Final Thoughts

When I first tried this recipe, I couldn’t believe how something so simple could taste so delightful. It’s the kind of dessert that makes you slow down and enjoy the little things—fresh fruit, soft texture, and light sweetness. I hope it brings the same cozy joy to your kitchen as it did to mine.