No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake

This strawberry cloud cake transforms just three simple ingredients into a light, airy dessert that's impossibly fluffy. Each bite melts in your mouth like a strawberry-flavored cloud, making it perfect for when you want something sweet without the heaviness of traditional cakes.

I first created this cloud cake when searching for a guilt-free dessert that would satisfy my sweet tooth without weighing me down. Now it's my go-to recipe whenever I host summer gatherings and want to end the meal on a light note.

Ingredients

• Fresh strawberries: Chosen for their natural sweetness and vibrant color. Look for bright red berries without white shoulders for best flavor.
• Unsweetened applesauce: Provides structure and moisture without adding fat. The subtle apple flavor complements the strawberries beautifully.
• Unflavored gelatin powder: Acts as the magical ingredient that transforms our simple mixture into an airy cloud. Knox brand works reliably every time.

How To Make Strawberry Cloud Cake

Prepare the pan:

Line an 8 or 9 inch square pan with parchment paper creating a sling for easy removal later. Ensure the paper covers both bottom and sides for clean removal.

Create the puree:

Blend strawberries and applesauce together until completely smooth and uniform in color. The mixture should have no visible strawberry pieces and appear as a vibrant pink liquid.

Add gelatin:

Transfer the puree to a heatproof bowl and sprinkle gelatin evenly across the surface. Whisk thoroughly until incorporated. Watch as the mixture thickens and becomes slightly chunky from the gelatin powder.

Dissolve the gelatin:

Set up a double boiler by placing your bowl over simmering water making sure the bowl doesn't touch the water. Gently heat until the gelatin completely dissolves and the mixture becomes thin and liquid again. The mixture should feel warm but not hot. Allow it to cool to room temperature for about 10 minutes.

Whip to perfection:

Pour the cooled mixture into a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment. Beat on highest speed for a full 15 minutes. The mixture will transform dramatically quadrupling in volume and resembling fluffy whipped cream. Soft peaks should form when you lift the whisk.

Set the cake:

Transfer the cloud-like mixture to your prepared pan spreading it evenly and smoothing the top. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until completely set.

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The unflavored gelatin is truly the star ingredient here. I discovered its magical properties through extensive experimentation with no-bake desserts. When properly activated and whipped it creates microscopic air bubbles throughout the mixture resulting in that ethereal cloud-like texture that gives this dessert its name.

Storage Tips

This cloud cake must be kept refrigerated at all times as it will begin to lose its structure at room temperature. Store any leftover slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cake does not freeze well as the delicate structure breaks down upon thawing resulting in a watery texture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your cake isn't fluffing up properly check that you're using unsweetened applesauce and fresh strawberries. Added sugar or excess moisture from frozen berries can prevent proper aeration. Also ensure your gelatin is completely dissolved before whipping and that you're whipping for the full 15 minutes at high speed to incorporate maximum air.

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Creative Variations

While strawberry creates a beautiful pink cloud cake this technique works with other fruits too. Try raspberries for a more intense berry flavor or peaches for a subtle summer variation. Just remember to adjust sweetness accordingly by potentially adding a small amount of sweetener to less sweet fruits. For a festive holiday version add a drop of peppermint extract and top with crushed candy canes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this cloud cake chilled with a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream and fresh strawberry slices on top. For a more elegant presentation create a fruit coulis by blending strawberries with a touch of sugar and drizzle it artfully around each plate. This dessert pairs beautifully with champagne or prosecco for celebrations or a cup of herbal tea for everyday enjoyment.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What makes this dessert light and fluffy?

The beaten mixture of strawberries, applesauce, and gelatin creates an airy, whipped cream-like texture after being whisked on high speed.

→ Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

It's best to use fresh strawberries, as frozen ones have too much moisture and can prevent the batter from fluffing up.

→ How long does the dessert need to set in the fridge?

It needs at least 1 hour to set, but it's preferable to make it a day ahead for optimal texture.

→ Can I make this with other fruits?

Yes, you can experiment with other fruits like blueberries. However, note that the texture and color may vary. Adding food coloring can enhance the appearance.

→ Can I add sugar or sweeteners to the batter?

Avoid adding sugar to the batter, as it prevents the mixture from fluffing. Opt for sweet frostings or toppings if desired.