This 3 Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake is a delightful dessert that feels like eating a cloud. It’s incredibly light and fluffy, making it perfect for any occasion, from birthday parties to family gatherings. With no need for flour, eggs, butter, or oil, this easy no-bake treat is both simple to make and deliciously refreshing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: With just three ingredients, this cake comes together quickly without any baking involved.
- Light and Fluffy Texture: Its airy consistency makes every bite feel indulgent yet guilt-free.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it plain or topped with whipped cream for a delightful presentation.
- Low-Calorie Delight: At only 23 calories per slice, it’s a perfect choice for anyone watching their calorie intake.
- Fruity Freshness: The blend of strawberries and applesauce creates a naturally sweet flavor that everyone will love.
Tools and Preparation
To make your baking experience seamless, gather the right tools. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delightful dessert.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer
- Blender
- Heat-proof mixing bowl
- Parchment paper
- 8-inch or 9-inch square pan
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: Essential for whipping the mixture to the fluffy consistency that defines this cloud cake.
- Blender: Used for creating a smooth strawberry-applesauce puree that forms the base of the cake.
- Heat-proof mixing bowl: Necessary for safely melting the gelatin without risk of overheating.
Ingredients
This dessert is light and fluffy and it’s like eating a cloud. It’s an easy no bake dessert that doesn’t require any flour, eggs, butter or oil.
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
How to Make 3 Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake
Step 1: 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. You want to use a single sheet so that you can lift the cake out of the pan after.
Step 2: Blend Strawberries and Applesauce
Add chopped strawberries and applesauce to a blender. Blend on high speed until strawberries are fully pureed and the puree is uniform in color.
Step 3: Incorporate Gelatin
Add the strawberry-applesauce puree to a large heat-proof mixing bowl. Sprinkle gelatin across the surface. Whisk until gelatin is fully incorporated; it should make your puree thicker and chunkier.
Step 4: Dissolve the Gelatin
Using the double boiler method on the stove, dissolve the gelatin completely. When dissolved, your mixture should become thinner and more liquidy. Ensure it feels warm but not hot; be careful not to let it boil. Remove bowl from stove and let it cool at room temperature for about 10 minutes.
Step 5: Whip the Mixture
Pour the mixture into your stand mixer bowl. Using the wire whisk attachment, beat on highest speed for about 15 minutes. Your mixture should quadruple in volume and resemble airy whipped cream. The wire whisk should be able to hold a soft peak when you stop mixing.
Step 6: Set in Pan
Pour your whipped mixture into your prepared pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across and smoothen the surface. Place it in the fridge for at least one hour to set.
Step 7: Serve Chilled
Keep the cake in the fridge until ready to serve. Before serving, decorate with whipped cream frosting if desired. Slice with a very large and sharp knife; this cake is best served chilled. Store any leftovers in the fridge.
How to Serve 3 Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake
Serving your 3 Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake can enhance its appeal and make it even more delightful. Here are some creative ways to present this light dessert that will impress your guests.
With Whipped Cream
- Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top for an extra creamy texture.
- Use flavored whipped cream, like vanilla or strawberry, for added taste.
Fresh Berries
- Garnish with whole strawberries or mixed berries to add color and freshness.
- Serve alongside a berry compote for a delicious contrast.
Chocolate Drizzle
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the top for a rich flavor boost.
- Use dark, milk, or white chocolate based on your preference.
Mint Leaves
- Top each slice with fresh mint leaves for a refreshing touch.
- Mint not only adds flavor but also enhances the presentation.
Ice Cream
- Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream for extra indulgence.
- Consider using dairy-free ice cream for a vegan option.
Festive Sprinkles
- Add colorful sprinkles on top to make it fun for kids and special occasions.
- Choose themed sprinkles for holidays or celebrations.
How to Perfect 3 Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake
To ensure your 3 Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure the strawberries are ripe and sweet for optimal flavor.
- Dissolve Gelatin Properly: Make sure the gelatin is fully dissolved before mixing; this helps achieve the right texture.
- Beat Until Fluffy: Whisk the mixture until it quadruples in volume to create that airy cloud-like consistency.
- Chill Thoroughly: Allow enough time in the fridge to set; this step is crucial for the cake’s structure.
- Slice Carefully: Use a sharp knife when cutting into slices to maintain clean edges and presentation.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to mix in other fruits or flavors in place of strawberries for variety.
Best Side Dishes for 3 Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake
Pairing side dishes with your 3 Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delicious options to consider:
- Fruit Salad: A fresh mix of seasonal fruits complements the lightness of the cake perfectly.
- Chocolate Mousse: The richness of chocolate mousse offers a delightful contrast to the fluffy dessert.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can provide savory balance alongside sweet flavors.
- Nutty Granola: Crunchy granola can add texture and nutty flavor, making it an interesting side.
- Panna Cotta: This creamy Italian dessert pairs well with fruit-based cakes like strawberry cloud cake.
- Lemon Sorbet: A refreshing lemon sorbet cleanses the palate and adds a tart note.
- Coconut Whipped Cream: For a dairy-free option, serve coconut whipped cream alongside your cake for added richness.
- Mini Tarts: Bite-sized fruit tarts offer variety and complement the strawberry flavors beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making the 3 Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake can be simple, but there are common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Using Warm Ingredients: Ensure that your strawberries and applesauce are at room temperature. Warm ingredients can affect how well the gelatin sets.
- Not Whisking Enough: Failing to beat the mixture long enough can result in a dense cake. Aim for about 15 minutes of whisking until it resembles airy whipped cream.
- Skipping the Cooling Step: It’s crucial to let the gelatin mixture cool before whisking. Skipping this could lead to an uneven texture.
- Incorrect Gelatin Measurement: Make sure to measure gelatin accurately. Too much or too little can ruin the consistency of your cake.
- Not Preparing the Pan Properly: Line your pan thoroughly with parchment paper. This makes it easier to lift out the cake once set.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep the cake chilled until serving to maintain its fluffy texture.
Freezing 3 Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake
- Wrap slices in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place in a freezer-safe container.
- The cake can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating 3 Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and warm for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices for about 20-30 seconds on medium power until slightly warmed.
- Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet on low heat, warming each slice gently for a few minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding the 3 Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake.
How long does it take to make a 3 Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake?
The total time is approximately 25 minutes, plus at least an hour of chilling time for setting.
Can I use other fruits instead of strawberries?
Yes! You can substitute with other fruits like raspberries or blueberries for different flavors.
What is the best way to serve this dessert?
Serve chilled, and consider topping with whipped cream or fresh fruit for added flavor and presentation.
Is this cake suitable for dietary restrictions?
This recipe is naturally low-calorie and does not contain flour, eggs, butter, or oil, making it suitable for several dietary needs.
Final Thoughts
The 3 Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake is a delightful dessert that offers lightness and refreshing flavor. It’s perfect for gatherings or as a sweet treat at home. Feel free to customize by adding different fruits or toppings based on your taste preferences!
3 Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake
Indulge in the light and airy delight of the 3 Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Cloud Cake. This refreshing dessert feels like a bite of heaven with its fluffy texture and vibrant strawberry flavor. Perfect for any occasion, from birthday parties to casual family gatherings, this no-bake treat requires minimal ingredients and effort.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup chopped strawberries
- 1 1/3 cups unsweetened applesauce
- 4 1/2 teaspoons unflavored gelatin powder
Instructions
- Line an 8 or 9-inch square pan with parchment paper.
- Blend chopped strawberries and applesauce in a blender until smooth.
- In a heat-proof bowl, combine the puree with gelatin, whisking until incorporated.
- Dissolve the mixture over a double boiler until smooth and slightly warm; let cool for about 10 minutes.
- Transfer to a stand mixer and beat on high for about 15 minutes until fluffy.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and smooth the surface.
- Refrigerate for at least one hour until set before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (50g)
- Calories: 23
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
