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This dreamy strawberry cloud cake is my favorite warm weather treat and you will not believe how easy it is to make. There is no baking required and you only need three ingredients to whip up something so fluffy and refreshing it practically melts in your mouth.
I remember making this for a potluck and every guest demanded the recipe after one bite. Now it is my go to dessert when I want something that wows with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- Strawberries: For the brightest flavor and color use ripe strawberries that are deep red without mushy spots
- Unsweetened applesauce: Helps naturally sweeten the cake and create a smooth texture opt for applesauce with only apples in the ingredients
- Unflavored gelatin powder: The secret to that airy structure choose a high quality brand for best results and check that the powder is fresh not clumpy
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Line the pan:
- Use a large sheet of parchment paper to completely cover the sides and bottom of your eight or nine inch square pan making sure you have enough overhang to lift the cake out when ready
- Blend the fruit:
- Add your chopped strawberries and applesauce to a blender Blend on high until completely smooth and the mixture looks one uniform shade of pink
- Incorporate the gelatin:
- Transfer your puree to a large heat proof mixing bowl Sprinkle the gelatin evenly across the surface and whisk well The mixture will start to look thicker and a bit chunky
- Dissolve the gelatin:
- Set up a double boiler on the stove Place the bowl with the mixture over simmering water and stir constantly until the gelatin is fully dissolved The mixture will thin out and become glossy and more liquid It should feel warm but not hot so be careful not to let it boil
- Cool the mixture:
- Once gelatin has dissolved take the bowl off the heat Let it cool on the counter for about ten minutes until it reaches room temperature This helps it whip up properly later
- Whip it up:
- Pour the cooled mixture into the bowl of your stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment Beat on the highest speed for fifteen minutes The mixture will triple or quadruple in volume and look like whipped cream Check that a soft peak forms when you lift the whisk
- Set the cake:
- Pour the fluffy pink mixture into your prepared pan Spread evenly with a spatula and smooth the top Refrigerate for at least one hour until completely set and jiggly like a marshmallow cloud
- Serve and enjoy:
- Keep the cake chilled until serving Slice with a very sharp large knife You can top with whipped cream or fresh berries for extra flair Enjoy each melt in your mouth bite
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My favorite part is watching the cake transform in volume while whipping it Every time my family sees those pillowy peaks they know something magical is about to be served
Storage tips
Store the cake in the refrigerator tightly covered to keep that fluffy texture It will stay fresh for two to three days
Avoid freezing since the airy texture can break down after thawing
If decorating with whipped cream do so just before serving to keep it looking its best
Ingredient substitutions
You can swap raspberries or blackberries for strawberries for a deeper berry flavor or a fun purple color
If you do not have applesauce you can try using pear sauce or finely pureed canned peaches just be sure your substitute is unsweetened and smooth
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Serving suggestions
Top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream and extra fresh berries for a festive look
You can also drizzle with a little warm fruit jam for a special twist
Serve this as the finale to any summer barbecue or picnic everyone will love it
Cultural context
This style of gelatin based no bake cakes has roots in midcentury American desserts when housewives looked for creative ways to make light special treats without using the oven Perfect for summer and still beloved for that cool refreshing bite
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I achieve a fluffy texture?
Properly whip the cooled mixture at high speed for about 15 minutes. This incorporates plenty of air, creating a light, whipped consistency.
- → Can I use other fruit instead of strawberries?
Yes, berries like raspberries or blueberries may be substituted. Make sure to adjust sweetness as needed for tart fruits.
- → What type of applesauce works best?
Unsweetened applesauce is recommended to allow the strawberry flavor to shine and to control overall sweetness.
- → How long does this dessert need to chill?
Let the assembled dessert set in the refrigerator for at least one hour or until firm enough to slice cleanly.
- → How should I serve and store leftovers?
Serve slices chilled, straight from the refrigerator. Store any remaining portions in an airtight container and keep refrigerated.