3 Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake Recipe
This 3 Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake is a light, airy, and refreshing dessert perfect for warm days or when you want a simple yet elegant treat. Made with fresh strawberries, unsweetened applesauce, and gelatin, this no-bake cake relies on whipping the gelatin mixture into a fluffy cloud-like texture. Ready in just 25 minutes plus chilling time, it’s naturally gluten free and effortlessly delicious.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes plus 1 hour chilling
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Scale
Strawberry Puree
- 1/2 cup (77 g) chopped strawberries (chopped 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 the Pan: Use a large sheet of parchment paper to line the sides and bottom of an 8 inch or 9 inch square pan. Ensure the parchment is a single sheet so the cake can be easily lifted out after setting.
- Make Strawberry Puree: Add the chopped strawberries and unsweetened applesauce to a blender. Blend on high speed until the strawberries are completely pureed and the mixture is uniform in color.
- Incorporate Gelatin: Pour the strawberry puree into a large heat-proof mixing bowl. Evenly sprinkle the gelatin powder across the surface. Whisk thoroughly until the gelatin is fully incorporated into the puree, thickening it slightly and adding texture.
- Dissolve the Gelatin Using a Double Boiler: Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water on the stove to create a double boiler. Gently dissolve the gelatin while stirring, ensuring the mixture becomes thinner and more liquidy. It should feel warm to the touch but must not boil. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool to room temperature for about 10 minutes.
- Whip the Mixture: Transfer the cooled mixture into the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the wire whisk attachment. Whisk on the highest speed for approximately 15 minutes, until the volume quadruples and the mixture resembles airy whipped cream with soft peaks that hold their shape.
- Set the Cake: Pour the whipped mixture into the prepared parchment-lined pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly and smooth the surface. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the cake to set firmly.
- Serve and Store: Keep the cake refrigerated until ready to serve. Optionally, decorate with whipped cream or your favorite frosting before slicing. Use a very large, sharp knife to slice the chilled cake. Store any leftovers in the fridge to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Ensure the gelatin does not boil to prevent loss of gelling power and texture changes.
- Chilling time is crucial to allow the cake to fully set for the perfect cloud-like texture.
- For easier slicing, dip the knife in hot water and dry it before cutting each slice.
- You can decorate with fresh strawberries, mint leaves, or a light whipped cream topping for added flavor and presentation.
- This cake is naturally gluten free and light on calories, making it a great dessert option for many diets.
Keywords: No bake cake, strawberry dessert, gelatin cake, light dessert, gluten free cake, healthy dessert
