3 Ingredient Strawberry Cloud Cake

Category: Exquisite Sweet Finales

This strawberry cloud cake brings together just three simple ingredients—fresh strawberries, unsweetened applesauce, and unflavored gelatin—for an exceptionally light, whipped dessert. Strawberries and applesauce are blended until smooth, then combined with gelatin and gently heated before being whipped to a soft, airy texture that holds its shape. Once set in the refrigerator, the cake develops an irresistibly fluffy, cloud-like consistency. Serve chilled, optionally finished with fresh fruit or dairy-free whipped topping for a visually appealing summer treat. It's gluten-free, low-carb, dairy-free, and low-calorie—perfect for those seeking something light and refreshing.

Sandra
By Sandra Sandra
Updated on Wed, 21 May 2025 19:08:47 GMT
A slice of pink and white cake with a strawberry on top. Pin
A slice of pink and white cake with a strawberry on top. | howtogourmet.com

This quick and fluffy strawberry cloud cake is my go-to solution when I crave a sweet treat that is easy to whip up with just a few simple ingredients and zero baking fuss. The dreamy texture comes from a clever blend of fresh strawberries, applesauce, and a touch of gelatin for perfect loft. Searching for a dessert that is both featherlight and naturally fruity, I found this to be an instant crowd-pleaser at weekend gatherings.

I made this for a summer picnic and it vanished faster than anything else on the table Everyone was amazed at how cloud-like each bite felt

Ingredients

  • Fresh strawberries sliced into small cubes: Provides sweet vibrant berry flavor Use only ripe and fragrant berries for best results
  • Unsweetened applesauce: Offers natural sweetness and moisture without overpowering the strawberry flavor Choose a smooth applesauce for even blending
  • Unflavored gelatin powder: Forms the base that holds the airy texture Look for a high-quality clear powder with no off smells

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the pan:
Line the bottom and sides of your square pan with one large piece of parchment paper Make sure extra hangs over the edges so you can lift out the cake
Blend the fruit:
Add fresh strawberries and unsweetened applesauce to your blender Blitz on high until the mixture turns completely smooth and evenly pink This step ensures the final cake has a creamy texture
Bloom the gelatin:
Transfer the strawberry-applesauce mix to a large heatproof bowl Sprinkle gelatin powder evenly across the surface Whisk quickly and thoroughly so there are no lumps You will see the mix start to thicken up this is normal
Dissolve the gelatin:
Place the bowl over a pan of simmering water Be careful the bottom of the bowl should not touch the water Stir constantly until the gelatin is fully melted and the mixture feels thinner Remove from the heat set aside and let cool for ten minutes
Whip it up:
Pour the now-cooled mixture into the bowl of your stand mixer Fit it with the whisk attachment Beat on the highest speed for about fifteen minutes or until the volume quadruples and it turns into a delicate pale foam The right consistency is when a lifted whisk leaves a soft peak
Set and chill:
Scoop all the whipped strawberry cloud into your parchment-lined pan Use a spatula to spread it evenly and smooth the top Place it in the fridge for at least one hour or until firm and sliceable
Slice and serve:
Lift the cake out using parchment edges and use a sharp knife for neat slices Optionally top each piece with softly whipped cream or a favorite dairy-free frosting Keep extra slices chilled
A slice of pink and white cake with a strawberry on top. Pin
A slice of pink and white cake with a strawberry on top. | howtogourmet.com

I love using a small batch of the most fragrant strawberries from the farmers market for this cake My niece calls it pink pillow dessert and insists it is now the only birthday cake she wants

Storage Tips

This cake keeps well covered in the refrigerator for up to three days The texture is best within the first thirty six hours so slice just before serving For a clean cut use a sharp knife heated with warm water and wiped dry after each cut

Ingredient Substitutions

Use only fresh strawberries Frozen will not whip correctly and add unwanted moisture Unsweetened applesauce is key for texture and flavor Avoid sweetened or spiced varieties since they alter both flavor and structure Gelatin is required for setting and cannot be swapped for plant-based alternatives without major textural changes

A slice of pink cake with a strawberry on top. Pin
A slice of pink cake with a strawberry on top. | howtogourmet.com

Serving Suggestions

Top each piece with whipped coconut cream for a totally dairy-free treat A light dusting of freeze-dried strawberry powder or a few fresh berries on top pairs well For party platters cut into squares and layer with sliced kiwi or banana for a fruity twist This cake is also perfect as part of a brunch spread because it feels indulgent without being heavy

A Bit of History

This style of gelatin-based “cloud cake” echoes classic American chiffon and whipped mousse desserts from mid-century cookbooks Despite its retro roots the short ingredient list and fresh fruit make it a refreshing update suitable for modern tastes and wellness-minded eaters

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Fresh strawberries are essential for the desired airy texture. Frozen strawberries tend to release too much liquid and prevent proper aeration.

→ Why does unsweetened applesauce work best?

Unsweetened applesauce ensures the mixture fluffs up properly. Added sugars may hinder the airy texture you're aiming for.

→ Do I need a stand mixer?

A stand mixer with a whisk attachment is highly recommended to achieve maximum volume and that whipped, cloud-like consistency.

→ How long does the cake need to set?

Allow at least one hour of refrigeration for the cake to fully set. Chilling overnight helps achieve the best texture.

→ Is this suitable for vegetarians or vegans?

This dessert uses animal-derived gelatin and is not suitable for vegetarians or vegans. Consider plant-based alternatives if desired.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Keep any leftovers covered and refrigerated to maintain the cake’s fluffy texture and freshness.

3 Ingredient Strawberry Cloud Cake

Fluffy, chilled strawberry and applesauce cloud cake—airy, light, and no bake. Only three ingredients.

Preparation Time
25 min
Cooking Time
~
Total Time
25 min
By Sandra: Sandra

Category: Desserts

Skill Level: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 12 Servings (12 slices)

Dietary Preferences: Low-Carb, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

→ Main Ingredients

01 77 g fresh strawberries, diced into 1.25 cm cubes
02 313 g unsweetened applesauce
03 15 g unflavored gelatin powder

Steps

Step 01

Line the base and sides of an 8 cm or 9 cm square pan with a single sheet of parchment paper, ensuring overhang for easy removal.

Step 02

Combine diced strawberries and unsweetened applesauce in a blender. Process at high speed until completely smooth and uniformly colored.

Step 03

Transfer the strawberry-applesauce puree to a large heatproof mixing bowl. Sprinkle gelatin powder evenly over the surface and whisk thoroughly until fully blended. The mixture will thicken.

Step 04

Set the bowl over a saucepan with gently simmering water, ensuring the base does not touch the water. Stir gently until the gelatin dissolves and the mixture is warm, fluid, and lump-free. Do not allow to boil. Remove from heat and let cool at room temperature for 10 minutes.

Step 05

Pour the cooled mixture into a stand mixer bowl fitted with a wire whisk attachment. Whisk on maximum speed for approximately 15 minutes until the volume quadruples and an airy, whipped-cream-like texture forms. The mixture should hold soft peaks.

Step 06

Transfer the whipped mixture to the prepared pan. Use a spatula to spread evenly and smooth the surface. Refrigerate for a minimum of 1 hour to set.

Step 07

Store chilled until ready to serve. Slice with a large, sharp knife. Optionally decorate with whipped cream or preferred frosting. Refrigerate leftovers.

Additional Notes

  1. Use only fresh strawberries for optimal texture; frozen berries introduce excess moisture and impede proper aeration.
  2. Unsweetened applesauce is essential, as added sugar prevents the mixture from achieving the desired fluffiness.
  3. Preparing a day ahead is advised for full setting and the lightest texture.
  4. This dessert is extremely airy and light—texture differs from conventional baked cakes.

Required Equipment

  • Blender
  • Heatproof mixing bowl
  • Saucepan for double boiling
  • Stand mixer with wire whisk attachment
  • Spatula
  • 8 cm or 9 cm square cake pan
  • Parchment paper
  • Large sharp knife

Allergen Information

Always review every ingredient for potential allergens and consult a health professional if you’re unsure.
  • Contains gelatin (animal-derived); unsuitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

The provided details are for informational purposes and should not replace professional health advice.
  • Calories: 23
  • Fats: 0.02 g
  • Carbohydrates: 5 g
  • Proteins: 1 g